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LOGAN — Utah State University alerted students Thursday to a sexual assault that occurred over the weekend near campus in a fraternity house, officials said.
The CODE BLUE alert was sent about 1:40 p.m. to students and advised about a sexual assault that occurred Saturday.
The crime was reported by a third party on Thursday and officials said drugs might have been involved in the assault.
The alert urged anyone with information on the alleged assault to contact USU police at 435-797-1939 or at their office at 800 E. 1250 North.
Police didn’t say what fraternity house the alleged assault took place at and said the alert contained all the information available at this time.
The alert also provided advice to students, noting “everyone on campus has a responsibility to make our community safe.”
Officials advised students to never accept a drink from a stranger, to know what their drink is, and to keep tabs on their drink at all times. Additionally, if someone is behaving disrespectfully or inappropriately, call campus police — don’t be a bystander, the alert urged.
Amanda DeRito, a spokesperson for the university, said a key reason alerts are sent for these events is to keep the community and campus informed.
University officials also want students to know how to be an up-stander and know important tips to stay safe, she added.
Tim Vitale, also a spokesperson for the university, said university officials want to be open about campus safety and alerts help accomplish that goal.
The alert also reminded students of Utah State’s amnesty policy that excuses students who report sexual misconduct from discipline relating to other violations of rules involving drugs and alcohol.
Students can find resources about consent at consent.usu.edu, the alert said.
A similar CODE BLUE alert was sent Nov. 5, 2018, that advised students a sexual assault had likely occurred at a fraternity near campus that might have involved drugs or alcohol.
Vitale noted that each incident the campus is alerted to is different and can’t be compared.
Additional resources for students who’ve been sexually assaulted can be found at sexualassault.usu.edu.
