Subject Apprehended in STLCC-Meramec Campus Incident

A suspect in a reported assault of a female student in a women’s restroom that occurred on the campus of St. Louis Community College-Meramec on the morning of April 18 now is in police custody. 

An instructor heard the female student call for help and immediately called college police. Officers in the building apprehended the suspect on the scene and removed him from campus. The woman was not seriously hurt and declined medical attention at that time. 

The suspect was arrested, processed, barred from campus and released, pending application for warrants. College police have worked directly with the St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s office. Charges of a Class D felony were issued April 23 against the suspect, who subsequently was apprehended and taken into police custody. 

It was the quick work of two college police officers that brought this situation to an immediate end, said Robert Stewart, district chief of police and director of emergency management. 

"College police followed all St. Louis Community College security policies in their response," Stewart said. "To further ensure students' safety, the Meramec campus has increased its police presence following this incident. As always, anyone who feels uncomfortable walking alone on campus may request a police escort." 

Stewart noted that the college proactively prepares both students and staff for all types of emergencies, including natural disasters and intruders. A video is shown to students during the first week of classes on how to deal with emergency situations. STLCC also posts emergency materials in every classroom and office space. 

"We regularly conduct emergency simulations such as crime drills, tornado drills and fire drills to assure our readiness to respond to such situations," Stewart said.