Campus Assault Notification

January 20, 2008

Early this morning, two men reportedly sexually assaulted two Boston University students in their Claflin Hall dorm rooms. When these two men, both students at other area colleges, entered the women's unlocked room and initiated sexual contact, the woman fought back and called for help. The Boston University Police Department responded immediately and arrested the two assailants. During the investigation, the Boston University Police determined that two Boston University students, who did not know the alleged assailants, had signed them into Claflin Hall.

Our greatest concern is for the well being of the two victims. Immediately after the assault, the University provided them with access to counselors and other support. Fortunately the two victims were not physically injured.

The university is very concerned over the actions of the Boston University students who signed two people into the residence hall without any knowledge or information about who they were or what they were doing there.

As we begin the spring semester, it is worth reviewing a few often-repeated important messages:

1. Residents are responsible for any individuals they sign into their building as a guest;
2. Any visitor who is signed into a residence hall, potentially jeopardizes the safety, and well being of fellow students;
3. Residents will be held fully accountable for the misconduct of their guests;
4. Under no circumstances should anyone sign individuals into a residence hall that they do not know or are unwilling to escort throughout the building; and
5. Remember to always keep your room door locked - especially when you are sleeping or away from your room.

Your diligence in such matters is vital to the collective safety of your residence. The Office of the Dean of Students and the Boston University Police Department takes campus security and personal safety very seriously. It is imperative that all members of the Boston University community share in this essential effort to protect one another.

Please contact the Boston University Police Department (617-353-2121) or the Office of the Dean of Students (617-353-4126) with any questions or concerns you may have.