Dear Ohio State Community Member:
You are receiving this notice because a crime has occurred that is considered to be of a concern and/or a continuing threat to the campus community.
The purpose of this message is to heighten your safety awareness by providing community members with information necessary to take appropriate precautions, enable you to take actions to help increase your safety, and to aid in the prevention of similar crimes.
On 9/28/14, a female OSU student reported being sexually assaulted off-campus in the area of E. 12th Ave. and N. Pearl St. The crime occurred on 9/27 at 10 p.m. The survivor described two white male suspects, both ages 18-20, 5 feet, 10 inches, weighing between 200 and 250 pounds and wearing dark shorts and tennis shoes. Also on 9/27, at approximately 8:21 p.m., a female, non-OSU affiliate reported a possible sexual assault at E. 15th Ave. and N. Pearl St. The suspect in that incident is described only as a white male. The Columbus Division of Police is investigating both reports. While these incidents occurred off-campus, they are similar enough in nature that they could present an ongoing threat.
Sexual assault is any sexual activity that occurs in the absence of consent and can include sexual activity with someone whose judgment is impaired by alcohol/drugs, whether ingested voluntarily or unknowingly. Responsibility lies with the perpetrator, not the survivor. No one deserves, asks for, or provokes sexual assault. Most perpetrators assault someone they know. Sexual assault occurs in all communities and people of all genders can be survivors. Additional resources are available at: http://advocacy.osu.edu/sexual-violence/get-help/.
As always, you can increase your overall safety by being cautious and looking out for one another; being aware of your surroundings and looking assertive; walking with a trusted friend or co-worker, when possible; if a situation makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, choose an alternative; utilizing campus transportation and safety resources.