To the Temple community,  

Temple University’s Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Philadelphia Police Department are investigating an indecent assault incident and a separate possible harassment incident, both which recently occurred off-campus. One student was touched from behind by an unknown male in the area of the 1500 block of West Norris Street. Days prior, a possible harassment incident happened to a student in the area of the 1800 block of Norris Street. DPS did not become aware of the first incident until after the second incident was reported.

The presence of Temple Police Officers, Detectives and Bike Patrols have increased in the area. TUPD Detectives are following all investigative leads. If you believe you have been victimized, please contact PPD’s Special Victims Unit.

We also encourage landlords within the patrol zone to enroll in the university's Security Lightand Camera Grant program. To date, more than 300 security cameras installed at off-campus private apartments have been paid for by Temple.

Finally, we want to remind all members of the Temple community to familiarize themselves with the university’s available safety resources. More information on these can be found at safety.temple.edu. We also want to ensure our Temple community is supported. We encourage students to contact Tuttleman Counseling Services, located at 1700 N. Broad St. For information, call 215-204-7276 or visit the Tuttleman Counseling Services website. 

Sincerely, 

Jennifer Griffin
Vice President for Public Safety 

NOTE: An earlier version of this message stated that two indecent assault incidents took place. Through the investigation, we have learned that one incident was actually a possible harassment.