NEWS RELEASE

6/4/03

John Sanford, News Service: (650) 736-2151, jsanford@stanford.edu

Women groped by man on bicycle; no injuries reported, police say

Stanford police are on the lookout for a bicyclist who has groped several women over the past two weeks at various campus locations.

Described as a 19- to 25-year-old man with dark hair and a medium to heavy build, the bicyclist struck during the night and early morning hours of May 22, 23, 26 and 27 by riding up to women (usually from behind), groping them and then riding away, according to Sgt. Rick Tipton of the Department of Public Safety.

"So far, none of the victims report that the suspect said anything to them, and none has reported suffering any injuries," Tipton said. He said encounters took place at the following times and locations:

• On May 22, about 9:15 p.m. near Florence Moore Hall; about 11 p.m. at the east end of the Quad; and about 11:20 p.m. in White Plaza.
• On May 23, about 1:10 a.m. near Florence Moore Hall and about 1:15 a.m. along Escondido Road near Crothers Hall.
• On May 26, about 11:40 p.m. in the parking lot of Tresidder Memorial Union.
• On May 27, at 2 a.m. next to the post office.

Anyone with information relating to the incidents is encouraged to call Tipton at (650) 723-5629.

Following are some tips for personal safety from the Department of Public Safety:

• Avoid dark, vacant or deserted areas. Use well-lit travel routes.
• Avoid walking or jogging alone, especially at night. Call SURE Escort service, 725-SURE (725-7873), during evening and night hours.
• Dress in clothes and shoes that will not hamper movement.
• Be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. Avoid wearing headsets that might impair your ability to detect and respond to a potentially dangerous situation.
• Call 911 immediately to report suspicious activity or noises. Pre-program your cell phone with the direct emergency number for the police: 321-4433. (Cell phone calls to 911 are delayed because they are answered by a Bay Area-wide office before being transferred back to the local departments.)
• Carry a noise-making, attention-getting device with you and use it if you suspect you are in danger. Move to a well-lit area or building and raise a commotion or join a group of people. Call 911 or activate an emergency phone, located in the blue towers.

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