A female student at St. Cloud State University reported being sexually assaulted by a man in an on-campus residence hall Friday. The victim reported the incident to the Residential Life and Public Safety Departments, telling authorities it happened in the early morning hours.

The university-wide email did not indicate if the suspect knew the victim, which residence hall or any other specific details. This is considered a criminal behavior and violates the University’s Code of Conduct. Individuals must give consent in any kind of sexual activity. Consent cannot be implied because someone doesn’t say no.

Safety Tips for Students:

• Stick with your friends.
• Hold onto your drink—even when you go to the bathroom. If your drink was out of sight, even for a few seconds, get a new one!
• Always keep your cell phone charged and on you. You never know when you’ll need it.
• Make sure you always have a plan to get home with a friend or roommate. Never leave someone behind.
• Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right to you, leave and to a safe place.

If you are a bystander and witness a situation potentially involving sexual assault or something you believe is illegal or inappropriate, say something!

• Approach everyone as a friend · Do not be antagonistic
• Avoid using violence
• Be honest and direct whenever possible
• Recruit help if necessary
• Keep yourself safe
• If things get out of hand or become too serious, contact the police