The Runner
University Police Department is investigating two cases of rape and one case of sexual battery.
On Feb. 27 at 3:18 p.m., a sexual battery was reported to UPD, according to UPD’s crime log.
On March 19 at 5:42 p.m., a report of rape of a drugged victim was made. It occurred Feb. 5 at 3 a.m. in Student Housing East.
Another incident of rape in Student Housing East was reported March 22 at 10:51 a.m. The crime log states it was by force, fear or etc. It occurred at 5 a.m. on March 19.
UPD has yet to send out a notice to students informing them of these cases.
When Housing Director Crystal Becks was asked about notifying the students living in the dorms, she stated that she was not at liberty to speak on the topic.
According to Director of Public Affairs and Communications Michael Lukens, UPD’s Chief of Police Marty Williamson said the department is aware of the incidents.
“All are under active investigation,” Williamson is quoted as saying in an email from Lukens. “To protect the integrity of the investigative process, UPD will not disclose certain information. The information already provided to The Runner from the crime log contains the information that is appropriate to release. Additionally, there is no evidence that these reported incidents are related.”
On Monday, The Runner attempted to meet with Assistant to the President Claudia Catota, CSUB’s Assistant to the President for Equity, Inclusion, and Compliance
Title IX Coordinator, but was told she was not meeting with anyone. Catota’s office oversees CSUB’s compliance with Title IX which is a federal law that states no person based on gender be excluded from any education program and activity.
Catota is also responsible for compiling the Clery Report which is a federaly madated report that records crimes.
UPD advises the campus community that it is important to report any instances that happen to someone on campus.
“It’s important to be aware and have one another’s back,” said Campus Advocate and Education Coordinator Vanessa Corona. “If you see something that looks suspicious to you, people should be intervening, instead of assuming someone else will take care of it or [thinking] it’s not my problem.”
Corona further said that it is important for students to know their reporting options and feel safe about coming forward
Resources are available at the UPD, the Counseling Center, Catota’s office, the Office of Student Rights and
Responsibilities, and Corona herself for those who have survived these attacks.
Corona’s office is located in Dorm F 102.
“Victims seeking assistance should be treated with respect and dignity, and their concerns should be responded to in a timely and professional manner,” according to CSUB’s Sexual Assault Education and Response Policy and Procedures.
To report an act of sexual violence, people can call UPD at 654-2111 or contact 911.
