A female student reported to a Campus Security Authority that on Oct. 3 she was sexually assaulted by a male student acquaintance. The female student reported that this occurred in a residence hall but did not specify which hall. No description of the suspect is available at this time.
If you believe a crime has been committed, we encourage you to call VUPD . In an emergency, call 911 or (615) 421-1911. For non-emergencies, call (615) 322-2745.
The Project Safe Center offers a support line 24 hours a day, seven days a week at (615) 322-SAFE (7233).
The Psychological and Counseling Center offers support and resources as well. PCC can be reached at (615) 322-2571.
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MYTH |
FACT |
| When someone says that they are not interested in sex or doesn’t respond to their partner’s sexual advances, they just need to be persuaded to have sex. | Sex without consent is sexual assault. A person can withdraw their consent at any time. Not responding to sexual advances is not consent. A “no” in any form must be heard and respected. Consent is actual words or actions indicating a freely given agreement to engage in sexual activity. |
| Sexual assault is usually committed by a stranger. | Approximately 80 percent of sexual assaults are committed by a person known to the victim. This acquaintance may be a classmate, relative, friend, co-worker, casual date or romantic partner. On a college campus, nearly 90 percent of completed or attempted sexual assaults are committed by an acquaintance. |
| Anyone who gets drunk or takes drugs is partially responsible for being assaulted. | Using drugs or consuming alcohol does not imply consent and does not make a person responsible for an assault that happens to them while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Intoxication may impair a person’s ability to provide effective consent, resist unwanted sexual advances, and take some safety precautions; however, rape is never the victim’s fault. |