VUPS is issuing this Security Notice to update the Vanderbilt community on additional details regarding the incident that initiated the AlertVU notification on Monday, Aug. 21, 2023. Upon further investigation, it was determined that the following had occurred:
On August 21, 2023, an unidentified female student reported to Project Safe that she was sexually assaulted in an on-campus residence hall during the late evening or early morning hours of August 19, 2023, or August 20, 2023, by an unidentified male student. The female student reported that she attended an off-campus party where she had consumed alcohol and met the male student. She reported blacking out at the party and waking up to him assaulting her in a residence hall bathroom.
This Security Notice is being issued to remind the Vanderbilt community:
- Make a plan for your night out, including your journey there and back.
- Try to go with friends and leave with friends.
- When safe to do so, bystanders may intervene in a situation by directly addressing those involved.
- Bystanders who do not feel safe intervening directly should ask someone else to help.
- Bystanders may also try to distract the parties involved to try to create an opportunity to help.
Bystander intervention training is available through Project Safe. Additionally, VUPS and Project Safe offer a variety of educational and program opportunities including safety planning and self-defense training.
Vanderbilt community members are encouraged to download the VandySafe app to:
- Contact VUPD via phone call or real-time chat.
- Trigger a mobile Bluelight that shares your location instantly with VUPD.
- Initiate a “Virtual Walkhome” where VUPD can monitor your walk home, to the car, or to the office.
- Submit iReports and crime tips.
- View information about VandyRide.
- Access support resources.
- View emergency guides.
Resources and Assistance for Students, Faculty, and Staff
The Vanderbilt University Police Department is available to assist you 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you need emergency assistance call: (615) 421-1911 or non-emergency: (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 Title IX Office can be reached at (615) 343-9004.
The University Counseling Center (UCC) can be reached at (615) 322-2571.