A number of anonymous posters telling men to “not be rapists” are popping up around University of British Columbia campus in light of recent sex assaults.
One poster reads, “Don’t be a rapist! Someone walking alone is not an invitation for you to rape or assault! Quit hurting others to satisfy your sexual urges. Control yourself!”
Another poster says, “Don’t be a creep! Tip #1 Learn how to manage your sex drive. The person you are interested in does not owe you a response.”
Three sex assaults involving women took place on UBC campus since late September, and police believe one man is responsible for all of them.
The assaults have prompted a safety alert from the university asking women to not walk alone at night.
UBC public affairs director Lucie McNeill says they do not know who is putting up the posters.
McNeill says the university is increasing security on campus, but would not go into details on what exactly is being done.
Last week, the University RCMP Detachment also said that the assault series has become their top priority.
“We are engaged with many partner law enforcement agencies to attempt to identify and apprehend the person or persons responsible for these attacks,” said Sgt. Drew Grainger. “The RCMP would also like to reinforce the continued strong message for all citizens who walk through the Campus at night to exercise every precaution to ensure their own personal safety.
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On October 19, a 17-year-old female student was walking alone on the UBC campus in the 2500-block of West Mall. She was approached from behind by an unknown man who emerged suddenly from a wooded area.
The man placed his hands around the girl’s hips and tried to drag her into the woods. During the attack the man also ripped at clothing the student was wearing under her skirt.
The girl struggled and managed to break free. She screamed for help and the man ran away.
This is the third sexual assault in just a few weeks.
The first attack, involving a 19-year-old woman, occurred on September 28.
The second assault involved a 20-year-old student and took place on October 13.
The suspect is described as Caucasian, late 20s to early 30s . He is about 6′ 2″ tall with a thin build. He has short cropped hair and was wearing blue jeans and a dark hoodie. Police say the attacker possibly has an American accent.
Police are asking for the public’s help to identify the man responsible for this incident. Please provide any information to the University RCMP at 604-224-1322 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS
With files from Amy Judd
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