On Sunday, October 27, 2024, at around 2:20 a.m. at 9th Street and Castle Point Terrace, a female student was assaulted by an unknown male who was riding an electric powered bicycle. The suspect then followed the student up 9th Street and down Wittpenn Walk to her housing unit.
The incident occurred when the student was walking back from Washington Street and approaching the 9th Street gate on her way to her residence hall room in Harries Tower. The suspect approached the student and groped her, while still on his bike, and then continued to follow her to upper campus. He then followed her from afar as she continued to her residence hall.
A review of the campus security cameras confirmed that at several points, the suspect can be seen hiding and lurking. It also revealed that a second encounter between the suspect and three other female students occurred just prior to this incident in front of 806 Castle point Terrace. That incident was determined to be suspicious, but no assault took place, likely because of the quick thinking of these students who got together in a group and placed distance between themselves and the actor. In both cases, the suspect did not attempt to engage in conversation.
The actor is more specifically described as a male in his late teens to early twenties with a small to medium build and light complexion. He was wearing all dark clothing, black pants and black and white sneakers, a baseball cap with white lettering, a black jacket with red lining, and a black backpack with white lettering. The bicycle was black in color, electric powered, with fat tires and noticeable metallic blue rims (see photos).
This individual is wanted by the Campus Police for identification and questioning. If you see this individual, or have experienced a similar encounter in the past, please contact Campus Police at 201-216-3911 or call 911 immediately. Do not attempt to engage this individual or apprehend him. It is best that you call the police, gather as much descriptive information, and report to the police dispatcher his last known whereabouts.
We also ask that you be vigilant of your surroundings and walk in groups, if possible, especially when it is dark. If you are attacked, do everything possible to fight off your attacker and scream loudly to attract the attention of bystanders. Try to walk in lighted areas and stay away from walking near bike lanes. Do not be distracted by cellphones, music, or ear-pods. Your own personal safety is your number one priority, so please remain vigilant.
The Stevens Campus Police have distributed bulletins to the Hoboken Police Department and surrounding communities. Campus Police patrols have also been increased on campus as well as throughout the City of Hoboken by the Hoboken Police.
You are receiving this Timely Warning Notice in accordance with the Jeanne Clery Act, as required by federal law. The location where this crime occurred is within the Clery geographical boundaries of the university and therefore is being shared with our community to make you aware of the incident and to remind you to always be alert of your surroundings at all times.
If you ever feel unsafe in your surroundings while on or around campus, please contact the Stevens Campus Police at 201-216-5105 or use the Stevens Guardian app for immediate assistance.
