ROCHESTER, Mich. – Police say the victim in this case does not want to press charges, but reported the alleged sexual assault anonymously. Still, police believe the suspect could be a potential threat, and they want to remind people to protect themselves.
"I was very shocked, it was shocking news," said Oakland University student Andrew Rix. "You know, you really don't hear about those things like that happening here."
Police say the alleged incident happened in a car near the Ann V. Nicholson Student Apartments at about 6 p.m. on Sept. 8. They say the suspect and the victim had met online.
"It's good to be aware that that's going on, but it doesn't make me feel threatened at all," said OU student Stephanie Fox.
If you do feel threatened, the school has a number of ways to keep the community safe. Officers patrol the campus 24 hours a day, seven days a week. And there are more than 80 emergency phones scattered around campus. There are also personal and surveillance escort programs available at any time.
Police say it's also a good time to remind the community to always report any suspicious activity. They advise students not to walk alone, especially when meeting someone they don't know.
"Always take a friend the first time if you're going to meet an individual," said Oakland University Police Chief Mark Gordon. "Also, meet in a public place. Go out to a public place where other people are around and also make sure you have an exit strategy."
Police say the suspect is of Middle Eastern descent and was driving a black car. Police emphasize that if students see anything suspicious, call them.