Columbus, Ohio (WCMH) — A robbery and attempted rape Students are feeling nervous near the campus of Ohio State University last weekend.
A woman sleeping in her car on East 11th Street near North High Street was awakened around 11:40 p.m. Saturday by an unknown man, according to the Columbus Police Department. Her man climbed on top of her, threatened to sexually assault her and tried to undress her, but another man searched her car and stole her cell phone.
Surveillance cameras captured two men fleeing on foot, but their identities remain unknown, according to CPD. Ohio State University student Maddie Dreyer, who lives off-campus near High Street, was shaken but not surprised to hear about the incident.
“I had an incident in my freshman year,” Dreyer said. “Someone followed me to my dorm building.”
Her experience isn’t unique to Dreyer.Manager Meg Dennis Central Ohio Sexual Assault Response Networkits proponents see more than 900 victims in central Ohio emergency departments each year.
“Sexual violence is the most underreported crime,” said Dennis, noting that only about 25% of sexual assault cases are reported. SARNCO’s goal, she said, is to encourage more survivors to come forward.
SARNCO survivor advocates can stay in the hospital while the victim is being treated and examined by a sexual assault nurse. Commonly known as a rape kit. The organization also runs her 24/7 hotline staffed by people specially trained to handle sexual assault calls.
“We have specially trained advocates who can talk to you about the process and options, so you’re not alone,” Dennis said.
SARNCO also has two advocates on the Ohio State University campus to provide covert support to students who have experienced sexual violence on or off campus. Our office is located at 33 W. 11th Ave. and is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, there are resources available.
- SARNCO 24 Hour Sexual Assault Helpline: 614-267-7020
- SARNCO Aftercare Advocate: 614-788-4739
- SARNCO OSU Campus Advocacy Coordinator: 614-688-2518
- Ohio Domestic Violence Network: 614-781-9651
https://www.wkbn.com/news/ohio/attempted-rape-near-osu-prompts-response-from-students-sexual-assault-advocates/ OSU Student, Sexual Assault Advocate Responds to Rape Attempt