The University of Illinois Police Department released a Campus Safety Notice on Friday after a reported “inappropriate touching” incident at the Main Library. The notification is in accordance with the Clery Act, which mandates the disclosure of certain crimes to ensure campus safety.
“University Police have received a report that a student was inappropriately touched at approximately 12:30 PM on Friday, 6/21/2024, at The Main Library, 1408 W. Gregory Drive, in Champaign,” the notice stated.
According to UIPD, the victim was reported to have been touched in a private body part over the exterior of their clothes. The notice also states that the offender was not known to the victim.
The stated purpose of the notice is to inform the campus community, promote awareness and prevent future incidents. UIPD encourages anyone with information to contact them at 217-333-1216. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Champaign County Crime Stoppers via 217-373-TIPS, 373tips.com or the P3 Tips mobile app.
In the notice, UIPD also highlighted the importance of community involvement in preventing sexual violence. They urged students to practice enthusiastic consent, intervene in unsafe situations when possible and support those affected by sexual misconduct. The Student Assistance Center and the Emergency Dean Program offer additional support for those impacted by such incidents.
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“Survivors and victims are never at fault for the violence they experience,” the notice stated. “The only person responsible for sexual misconduct is the perpetrator.”
For 24/7 assistance, people can access resources like the Rape Advocacy, Counseling and Education Services hotline at 217-384-4444 and the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network’s website.
For more details on safety measures, reporting options and support services, visit wecare.illinois.edu.
