Dec 16, 2008 9:06 am US/Eastern
Goucher Officials Investigate Sexual Assaults
BALTIMORE (WJZ) ―
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Many Goucher students are on alert right now after reports of three sexual assaults where the victims were drugged.
Do not be afraid. That's the message on the campus of Goucher College as any possible victims of a sexual assault are urged to come forward.
Mike Schuh reports the circumstances surrounding the alleged date rapes are unclear, but Goucher's president is launching an investigation. Meanwhile, students encourage a victim school officials say is close to coming forward.
A silent vigil outside Goucher's
Haebler Memorial Chapel is the way roughly 25 students chose to show their support for three apparent victims of date rape, who so far haven't come forward.
"It takes a lot of courage and sometimes it's really hard to confront your assailant and I just hope that maybe they can get some courage," said Angela Linhardt, Goucher senior.
In a letter to parents, Goucher President Sanford Ungar says, "These reports were made by a witness rather than the victims, but we deem them to be credible."
So far, two current students and one former student are implicated in an off-campus incident school officials call cowardly and inhumane.
Eyewitness News learned Baltimore County police have been notified about the cases, but so far they have not been brought in to investigate.
College officials confirm the victims knew their attacker, who may have used a date rape drug like GHB or rohypnol. Students are warned not to leave drinks unattended and to avoid alcohol.
"It's important to stay sober to keep yourself safe and remain aware of what's going on around you and the people around you," said Linda Kelly, GBMC SAFE program.
Outside
Haebler Memorial Chapel Monday night, students used their silence and the flickering light of candles in swirling winds to send a supportive message.
"There is a voice and there is a community on campus that's here to support them, as well as here in solidarity with them through their struggle," said Hillary Edwards, Goucher junior.
Goucher is offering anyone with information the option of filing an anonymous report through the college's Internet-based Silent Witness Program.
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