BROOKINGS – A man entered a secured dorm room on the campus of South Dakota State University, and university officials have issued a warning about the reported burglary and sex offense.
The incident occurred around 4:45 a.m. Thursday when “an unidentified male entered a secured room in Caldwell Hall where two female residents were sleeping,” according to a Timely Warning posted at https://www.sdstate.edu/safety-security/timely-warning-burglary-sex-offense-10-14-21.
“Entry was made through an unlocked and unoccupied adjacent room. While in the room, one of the female residents was awakened by the individual (after being touched) causing him to flee when she shined a light on him,” according to the post on sdstate.edu.
“The individual was described as a white male, approximately 5’8” to 5’10” with a stocky build, blonde hair, and was wearing a dark ball cap, grey sweatshirt and blue jeans,” according to the warning.
The University Police Department is investigating the incident and pursing all leads.
“The University Police Department is seeking information about the individual and his whereabouts as they believe there is potential for ongoing threat,” according to sdstate.edu.
UPD can be contacted at 605-688-5117.
“Sex offenses are a violation of the law and our community standards. As a community, we stand ready to support all victims. In addition to law enforcement, sex offenses may also be reported to the dean of students at 688-4493 and/or the Title IX Coordinator at 688-4128. Additional information is available at the university’s Title IX website,” according to sdstate.edu.
“Victims of any form of sexual harassment, which includes sex offenses and sexual assault, are encouraged to seek confidential assistance from SDSU Counseling Services at 688-6146. Additional university and community resources are listed on the Office of Safety and Security website,” according to sdstate.edu.
South Dakota State University issues crime alerts in accordance with the federal Jeanne Clery Act, which requires colleges and universities across the United States to disclose information about reported crime on and around campus, according to sdstate.edu.
“South Dakota State University is committed to the safety of the campus community and is releasing this information to aid in its protection. For more information about the Clery Act, visit its website. This information is provided so you can make informed decisions and take appropriate action to ensure your safety and mitigate any likelihood of similar crimes,” according to sdstate.edu.
“University Police Department urges anyone who believes they have been the victim of a crime, or has witnessed a crime, to contact local law enforcement. UPD can be contacted by dialing 111 from a campus phone or 911 from a cellular phone. The UPD non-emergency number is 688-5117. Additional information is available on the UPD website,” according to sdstate.edu.
The Jackrabbits Guardian smartphone app is a tool that provides instant communication with UPD when used on campus and with the local 911 law enforcement dispatch center when activated off campus, according to sdstate.edu. More information is available on the Jackrabbits Guardian website.
