Still no reports filed in alleged Western sexual assaults

London police say they have not received any formal complaints following a series of sexual assault allegations that came from a Western University residence last month.

In early September, the university announced it was launching an investigation into multiple reports of alleged sexual violence that reportedly took place at Medway-Sydenham Hall over the final weekend of OWeek. Reports began swirling online that upwards of 30 women were assaulted. As a result, the university beefed up its security measures and enlisted additional help from the London Police Service.

On Friday, police officials said no reports of a Medway-Sydenham Hall resident being drugged and sexually assaulted have been made in the three weeks since the reported incidents came to light.

“We have been unable to substantiate information circulated in social media posts about widespread incidents of that nature [sexual assault],” a statement from London police said.

In the first two days following the reports, police say detectives with the Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Section and members of Western’s Special Constable Service were on site at Medway-Sydenham Hall where they spoke with 600 students in hopes of offering an opportunity for possible witnesses or survivors to come forward.

According to police officials, investigators were supported in the effort by residence staff and assistants, or “dons” who were also provided with additional information to distribute to anyone seeking guidance on how to report a sexual assault.

Despite no reports being made, London police have confirmed the investigation at the residence will remain open. Investigators say a large number of incidents often go unreported. However, survivors and witnesses who feel reluctant to speak up will sometimes decide to come forward at a later date police said.

“We understand that individuals experience inflicted trauma in ways that are unique to them alone, and that there is no “standard” response on the part of victims and survivors to sexual violence. Victims and survivors of sexual assault are not obligated to participate in a police investigation,” the police service said.

Officers continue to encourage anyone who has experienced sexual violence to report the matter to police so it can be investigated.

Reports can be made to London police at 519-661-5670. Western University students can also choose to speak with the Western Special Constable Service at 519-661-3300, ext. 8330. Additional resources can be found on the London police website.

Read original story from London Ontario – BlackburnNews.com