Follow the investigation of two alleged sexual assaults on the University of Sussex campus, Sussex Police have released a statement saying they have arrested a young woman on suspicion of wasting police time.
The arrest follows the allegation of a sexual assault in the early hours of Wednesday 15 February. The woman has been released on bail until 19 April pending further enquiries.
The statement follows the closing of a second case into alleged sexual assault on the University of Sussex campus, which was reported in the early hours of Tuesday 21 February.
Detective Inspective Mick Jones of Brighton and Hove CID stated that: “Sussex Police takes allegations of sexual assault extremely seriously. All reported offences are subject to a thorough and professional investigation with an emphasis on supporting the victim and gathering all available evidence to bring offenders to justice.”
Thorough investigation of both sites involved in the cases has established that the incidents did not take place in the manner alleged.
Mick Jones added that detectives took a thorough approach yet found no evidence of the assaults happening in the originally reported way.
He stated: “We work closely with our partner agencies to help keep people safe from harm and are currently assisting the university in raising awareness of these issues. The introduction of Sexual Assault Referral Clinics and independent sexual violence advocates has helped us improve the service we provide to victims and I would encourage those that have been victims of this type of crime to come forward.”
The university has also increased the security measures put in place on campus, and has raised awareness of current policies and personal security measures available to students.
Students are able to collect free personal security alarms from the reception in York House, who hope to have replenished supplies as soon as possible.
Security staff are also available to escort students who are on their own or feel unsafe across campus back to the various residences.
The Students’ Union and the university have been working closely together in order to improve student welfare on campus.
Residential Advisors have all been fully briefed on the situation and will be able to offer practical advice to all students on campus.
Students can contact campus security on 01273 873333.
