Campus Safety Message
Vice President for Student Affairs Ginger Ambler sent the following message to the campus community March 24, 2015 - Ed.
Dear William & Mary Community,
I am writing to inform you that one of our students has reported she was raped last Thursday night in an off-campus apartment. The report came last night to our Dean of Students Office and William & Mary Police. Williamsburg Police will be leading the investigation because this occurred off campus.
The purpose of my email is two-fold: First, you need to be aware that someone from outside our community may be looking for opportunities to prey on others. The student was at a local establishment when she came into contact with this individual. Police have identified a suspect, who is not a W&M student. He is described as a white male, approximate 35 years of age, over 6 feet tall, thin, brown hair, goatee, and blue eyes.
Second, we want to remind you about important support services available on campus. There are many resources for those whose lives have been affected by sexual violence. In addition to the Counseling Center, the Dean of Students Office, the Title IX Coordinator and the recently opened Haven space in the Campus Center, the university has a comprehensive website at that gives quick, easy access to information. Posted there (http://www.wm.edu/sexualassault) are contacts for immediate help in a crisis, as well as more general information for the entire campus community about how to file a report or help a friend in need. In addition, please remember to watch out for each other and take precautions wherever possible. This includes walking in groups, especially late at night and utilizing resources such as Campus Escort (x13293) and Steer Clear Safe Ride (x1DRIV). This year, the Emergency Management Team implemented a new resource, the Rave Guardian app. It works like an emergency "blue phone" in your pocket and has a number of additional important safety functions. One touch can connect you immediately with W&M Police, or you can send a text or photo tip. The app will also let you set a timer if you are alone or in an unfamiliar place, so that friends, police, or others you trust will be notified if you are late. The app may be downloaded from the Emergency Management Team's website.
Please keep the student in this case in your thoughts and know we are working to ensure she has all available support and resources. As always, if you notice anything unusual or suspicious please call William & Mary Police at 757-221-4596. You can also contact the Williamsburg Police Department directly at 757-220-2331 to report any concern or incident off campus.
Ginger Ambler