Students unnerved by Merrill sexual assault incident, encouraged to remain aware
In the wake of Sunday's sexual assault in Merrill Hall, student residents remained firm in the safety of the campus and vigilance of the community.
Midland freshman Larissa Sian, who lives in Sweeney Hall, right next to Merrill, said although the incident was unsettling, students should be proactive in their own safety.
"I find it extremely scary," Sian said. "It was someone who lived in the residence hall, (and) that concerns me. We need to be proactive to make these guys and girls aware of the consequences."
While Sian recommended locking doors as a means of protection, she was wary of students living in fear of an attack.
"People should lock their doors at night, but you shouldn't have to live in fear," Sian said. "I find the whole thing disgusting. (Assailants) should be more respectful of people. This can ruin someone's life."
CMU Police Chief Bill Yeagley said assaults in residence halls were "extremely rare," during his four years at CMU. He warned future attackers that the police are looking for them.
"Anyone who wants to harm others, do not come on campus," Yeagley said. "We're looking for you, with the help of the community. The real message is to the bad guys: Get out of here, you're not welcome."
When the university's mass email was criticized for "victim blaming," Yeagley worked closely with representatives from the Student Government Association to refine the language for greater sensitivity.
"I said I understand (SGA's) points, and I truly regret to do anything construed to blame the victim," Yeagley said. "My job is to provide information to the community, so they can make good decisions. The motives are pure, but the results weren't good. We're going to do better. You will always hear the police department tell you to lock your doors."
Aside from discussion on the tone of the email, Yeagley commended the victims and arresting officers for their handling of the incident.
"What we need to remember in all this is the actions of the victims and friends," Yeagley said. "They were able to get us the information quickly, and we were able to arrest the guy immediately."
Molly Guckian, a Wyandotte senior who works as a resident assistant in Beddow Hall, said she advised students to be aware and look out for potential problems in the residence halls following the attacks.
"Students are kind of on their own here," Guckian said. "They need to be proactive. It's a challenge. You can't keep everyone safe all the time."
Guckian said she viewed the incident as a chance to educate students about safety, and even offer counseling to those concerned with their own motives.
"To individuals who think they might do something like this: There are plenty of resources available," she said. "It's a great opportunity to educate residents to know the options and resources available."
According to Guckian, Beddow Hall implements a midnight curfew on open doors. During a "Door Wars" competition during the beginning of the fall semester, she said students were urged to be present and stay aware.
"We stress to keep doors open to meet people, but be in there," Guckian said. "Things do happen, stuff gets stolen. (The incident) is really sad, disturbing and eye-opening. I always feel safe here, but you can't let yourself lull into a false sense of security."
Disciplinary actions in the works
Officials at Merrill Hall refused to comment on the incident, referring reporters to University Communications. Director of Public Relations Steve Smith said disciplinary steps are being taken and was unsure if John Rubio, the 18-year-old freshman charged with one count of first-degree home invasion, criminal sexual conduct with intent of penetration, fourth-degree sexual misconduct and two counts of assault and battery, dropped out of classes willingly.
"There's a disciplinary hearing in progress," Smith said. "It was started right away. That's what you would do in any of these cases, especially when the nature is as serious as this. We're hoping to do this immediately."
Smith added that all parties involved in the case are currently being interviewed, and after the investigation is complete, Rubio will meet with a conduct proceeding officer, who will determine whether he was in violation of school code.
After the CPO's finding, Rubio will have two chances to appeal.
Once he is informed of the verdict, Smith said, Rubio may request an appeal hearing or accept the penalty. If appealing, Rubio will face a hearing committee, comprised of a hearing officer and two students. If Rubio decides to contest their decision, an appeals panel will be formed.
The appeals panel will be comprised of Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs Tony Voisin, Academic Senate Chairperson Andrew Spencer and Student Government Association President Marie Reimers.
"It all depends on how quickly the group can come together," Smith said. "It's a very diverse group. (Rubio) would be able to appeal"
