Student sexually battered at CLU
By Nancy Needham nancy@theacorn.com

Sketch of attacker

A female student in her 20s was sexually battered while walking from a classroom to her car at California Lutheran University, according to a police report.

On Feb. 11 at 5:50 p.m., deputies from the Thousand Oaks Police Department responded to a call from campus security that said a female student had been sexually attacked by a stranger.

The attacker, thought to be Asian or Hispanic and in his 20s, approached the victim and forced her against a wall near the music center, the report said. The molester told the victim he had a weapon and that he forced one of his hands against the victim's breast area but did not make skintoskin contact, according to police.

The alleged victim reportedly dialed 911 on her cellphone as she announced she was calling the police.

The attacker let go of her and fled the area, the report said. The victim then went to her car and drove to the campus security building and reported the incident.

From her description, investigators have created a composite image of the attacker, who was reportedly wearing a black hooded sweatshirt.

Karen Grennan, CLU spokesperson, could recall no similar attacks at CLU in recent history.

The university sent email notification of the event to students and others associated with the campus, Grennan said, adding that information about the attack, the description of the attacker and the sketch were immediately posted on the school's website.

Campus security has increased patrols. Students were reminded to keep the dormitory doors locked at all times. Only those with security keys may go inside, and students are not supposed to allow someone to follow them in when they open the door. Dormitory doors are also not supposed to be propped open, Grennan said.

Police suggested people walk in pairs or groups. Staying in lighted areas is also a good idea but was not helpful in this attack.

The area on campus where the attack took place was well-lit, Grennan said.

Anyone who may have witnessed this incident or other suspicious activity can report information to Thousand Oaks Police Department investigator Luis Alvarez at (805) 494-8229.

Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to a $1,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person responsible for this crime. Call Thousand Oaks Crime Stoppers at (805) 494TALK (8255).

Police say the caller may remain anonymous and the call is not recorded.