The female student was sexually assaulted in a shower inside Forbes Hall on the University of Illinois campus in Champaign just before 11 a.m. on November 8. University police responded. The victim told police she was attacked by the offender while in the shower and the two struggled. She screamed, causing the offender to flee using the east stairwell of Forbes Hall, 101 E. Gregory Drive.
The offender is described as a 40-year-old black male who weighs 170 to 180 pounds and is around 5'11". He had on a grey jacket and dark boot type shoes. The victim told police she thought he may be homeless.
A second suspicious man was observed on the floor in Forbes Hall around the time of the attack, police said, by another witness. He is described as a black male, 20 to 30 years old, 50'9". He was wearing a black jacket with red writing and black pants. Police said it is unclear if the second person is linked to the offender.
Officers from several agencies- including the University of Illinois Police Department, Champaign Police, Urbana Police and Champaign County Sheriff's Office- immediately canvassed the campus area, according to a release. Anyone with information should call police at (217) 333-1216.
Police are also looking into whether an incident in which a man tried to push his way into a bathroom stall occupied by a woman in Madigan Hall is related. They also say there have been six incidents since the beginning of the year in which a peeping tom videotaped females showering.
Information also can be shared anonymously through Crimestoppers by calling 217-373-TIPS or at champaigncountycrimestoppers.com
A spokesperson for the university said police are investigating another, unrelated incident involving a peeping tom in Allen Hall. That suspect is believed to be a resident of the coed dorm.
