A 20-year-old female University student was attacked near the intersection of Rugby Road and Preston Avenue last Saturday at 3:10 a.m.
The attacker grabbed her from behind and attempted to pull her into some bushes while she was waiting for SafeRide, but the student escaped and took SafeRide back to her residence.
The assault is the 10th incident to occur either on or near Grounds during the past month. Charlottesville Police Lt. Gary Pleasants noted that there has been an increase in crimes in off-Grounds areas frequented by University students, including 14th Street, Rugby Road and Wertland Street.
"There has always been crime in those areas, but that number seems to have become higher in the last few months," he said.
The Charlottesville Police Department is still investigating several of the cases and has made three related arrests. Meanwhile, authorities have increased the number of officers on patrol and have posted plainclothes officers in problematic areas.
"Some things can't be prevented, but these crimes have occurred late at night while students are intoxicated and walking alone," Pleasants said. "This makes them more susceptible to being a victim and steps need to be taken to avoid these factors."
-compiled by Shirley Park
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