Tufts Student Reports Indecent Assault In Somerville

SOMERVILLE, MA – A Tufts University student reported an indecent assault in Somerville early Sunday morning, university police said. The student told police she was walking near campus around 12:15 a.m. Dec. 10 when a man followed her onto her front porch on Curtis Street. When she turned around, the man indecently touched her, police said.

He then fled toward Conwell Avenue. The student was not injured.

Police searched the area but did not find the suspect. He is described as being in his late teens to early twenties with a dark complexion, approximately 5-foot-8 and wearing a black and blue jacket and black pants.

Tufts University police have issued the following safety tips:

• Remain alert and observant of the people around you. If you think someone is following you, move quickly toward an open store or restaurant.
• Don’t be afraid to call out for help. Walk with purpose, head up, no earbuds and don’t be distracted by electronic devices.
• Stick to well-lit and well-travelled routes and walk with friends whenever possible.
• Utilize the SafeRide service by calling Tufts Police at (617) 627-3030 or from a campus phone dial X-73030.
• Program the Tufts Police number into your cell phone so you will be prepared in an emergency (617-627-6911).
• Report any suspicious persons or circumstances to Tufts Police immediately at 617-627-6911 or x66911 from an on-campus phone, or dial 911 for off campus emergencies.

Anyone with information about the reported assault is asked to contact the Tufts Police as soon as possible at 617-627-3030 or x73030 from an off campus phone or call the Somerville Police at 617-625-1600.