A sexual assault against a Winthrop University student that occurred on the morning of Tuesday, Nov. 16 in Phelps Hall was reported to the Winthrop University Police Department on Nov. 17.
In an email sent to students on Thursday, Nov. 18 around 7 p.m., WUPD informed that the suspect was described as a white male in his early twenties, muscular in stature, around 6 feet tall, dark brown hair trimmed neat and close to his head, blue eyes, and having light facial hair.
WUPD also informed that at the time of the incident, the suspect was wearing a dark blue or black baseball hat with a small white in color logo, a primarily light blue Carolina Panthers jacket or sweatshirt (the shoulder area being dark blue in color), dark-colored (possibly grey) pants and black athletics shoes with white bottom trim.
Interim Director for Residence Life Howard Seidler hosted a Zoom meeting where Interim Dean of Students Anthony Davis, Assistant Director of Residence Life Julie Schrader, Title IX Coordinator and ADA Compliance Officer Kevin Sheppard, WUPD Interim Chief of Police Charles Yearta and other faculty members were present.
The meeting was only open to Phelps residents due to a said desire to create a safe space for Phelps residents to voice their concerns and ask questions.
According to Yearta, all current evidence suggests that the suspect is not affiliated with the university.
Students were encouraged to not leave residence hall entryway doors open for people behind them, keep dormitory doors locked at all times and keep WUPD’s number handy in case they witness any strange activity.
At this time, the investigation by WUPD is active and ongoing.
Information in this story about the meeting for Phelps residents was provided by Managing Editor Chase Duncan who is also a Phelps resident.
