A 29-year-old man has been arrested after seven women reported being sexually assaulted in and around the University of Huddersfield campus on Tuesday evening, West Yorkshire Police said.
Police said they were called to the university by its security office and established that all seven incidents occurred between 18:00 and 18:30 GMT. A spokesperson said the women "had made off from a suspect after he approached and grabbed at them." The arrested man remains in police custody.
Detective Inspector Sarah Bradley said: "We fully recognise the distress and concern this incident has caused and can confirm a comprehensive investigation remains ongoing. We continue to work closely with our partners at the university to provide reassurance to students and staff and remain fully committed to supporting victims and safeguarding those who live, study and work in Huddersfield."
Professor Tim Thornton, the university's deputy vice-chancellor, said they recognised the incidents were "deeply concerning" and had "increased security patrols around campus." He added that the university was encouraging "all members of our community to make use of our SafeZone app, which provides direct access to emergency assistance, wellbeing support and our campus support and safety team."
Thornton said the university was working closely with police and that "the safety and wellbeing of our students, staff and visitors is our highest priority."
Analysis
Why This Matters
- The incidents, concentrated in a 30-minute period, have caused significant anxiety among students and staff at the university.
- The case highlights ongoing concerns about women's safety on and around university campuses.
- The university has responded with increased patrols and promoted its safety app, which may influence similar institutions' approaches.
Background
The University of Huddersfield is a public university in West Yorkshire, England. The reported assaults occurred on the campus grounds and nearby areas on Tuesday evening. Police responded after the university's own security office alerted them. The arrested man, aged 29, has not been formally charged, and a comprehensive investigation is ongoing.
Key Perspectives
West Yorkshire Police: say the investigation is ongoing and they are working to provide reassurance and support to the campus community.
University of Huddersfield (Professor Tim Thornton): says it is working closely with police, has increased security patrols, and is encouraging use of its SafeZone app; calls the incidents "deeply concerning" and says student and staff safety is the highest priority.
What to Watch
- Whether charges are filed against the arrested man and what the police investigation yields.
- Any further safety measures or policy changes the university announces in response.
- Potential impact on student confidence and attendance in the immediate area.