September 4, 2005 VUPD# 05-36450 MNPD# 05- 479751

A Vanderbilt student reported that she was the victim of a forcible fondling at 2415 Vanderbilt Place (Branscomb Quad) on September 4 at approximately 1:40 am. The victim states that she was approached by an unknown subject outside of the Branscomb Quad main entrance near the circle drive. The subject began talking with her as she was walking away from him towards Vanderbilt Place. He tried to touch her, pushed her to the ground and began grabbing her. The victim then used pepper spray on the suspect. The suspect hit the victim in the face. The victim was able to push the suspect off of her and flee the area. The victim did not require medical treatment.

Vanderbilt University Police Department is investigating this incident.

Suspect Description: Male white, 18-25 years old, tall, brown hair, clean shaven with some stubble. The suspect was last seen wearing a white polo shirt and khaki pants. The pepper spray that the victim used is laced with a dye. The suspects face and/or clothes may have a yellow or rust colored stain.

IF YOU HAVE INFORMATION RELATING TO THESE OR SIMILAR INCIDENTS,

PLEASE CALL VU POLICE AT 32(2-2745)

IF YOU WISH TO REMAIN ANONYMOUS,

CALL CRIME STOPPERS AT 74-CRIME (742-7463).

PLEASE REMEMBER

• Stay alert and TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS -- If you feel uneasy, leave. 
• On or off campus, walk/jog/bike in groups of three or more in well-lighted and well-traveled areas; otherwise, after dark on campus, use the ESCORT SERVICE. (NOTE: Before parking on campus after dark, stop by the Police & Security Building at 2800 Vanderbilt Place or the ER.
• Ask for an officer to meet & escort you from your parking space.)
• Scan the area before you exit or approach your vehicle/building and while you proceed between sites.
• Have your key ready in hand to quickly access the door of your vehicle/building.
• If strangers approach, maintain a distance and be observant; if they are in a vehicle, get the license plate number.
• Lock doors and windows of your room/building. Don't prop open doors, thwart security measures, or let strangers in.
• Avoid going to ATM's alone, after dark, or if suspicious persons are nearby.
• Think ahead about what you would do under dire circumstances. Try to get a description.

** REPORT SUSPICIOUS PERSONS, VEHICLES, OR ACTIVITIES IMMEDIATELY! **

ON CAMPUS, DIAL 1-1911 OR USE A BLUE LIGHT PHONE!

(NOTE: In Medical Center shuttle lots & Lot 72, call 421-1911!)