The Cal Poly University Police Department released a campus-wide crime alert Wednesday for an alleged sexual assault that reportedly occurred at the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity house at 280 California Blvd. on Saturday night.
The reported incident involved an “intoxicated and unconscious college-aged female” during or after a party at the fraternity house, the alert said.
Associate Director of Student Life and Leadership Stephan Lamb said the San Luis Obispo Police Department is looking into the allegations, which are something the university takes very seriously.
He also said Sigma Phi Epsilon’s national headquarters were notified, and Cal Poly, along with the fraternity’s headquarters, have issued a cease and desist on the Cal Poly chapter.
“What that means is they are closed down,” Lamb said. “They may not have any meetings or gatherings until the end of the investigation.”
Members of Sigma Phi Epsilon and the Interfraternity Council did not reply for comment.
The San Luis Obispo Police Department cannot release any more information regarding the event at this time.
Representatives from Cal Poly’s Sexual Assault-free Environment Resource Program (SAFER) responded quickly to the alleged event.
Layla Zare, a business administration sophomore and SAFER educator, said the group organized an informational session, to take place May 12 from 9 to 11 a.m. in University Union, room 220. She said with the forum, SAFER is trying to encourage a more accepting environment for victims of sexual assault.
“All of us at SAFER are very sorry about the unfortunate, alleged sexual assault that occurred this past weekend,” Zare said. “We would like the community to remember that the survivor is never at fault if they are assaulted, no matter what the circumstances are. Any forced, pressured, or coerced sexual contact without both party’s mutual consent constitutes a sexual assault. Legally, a person is not able to give their full consent or agreement if intoxicated by drugs or alcohol.”
Zare also offered help to any of those disturbed by the alleged assault.
“We would like to offer support, information and resources to anyone who may have been affected by this incident,” Zare said. “We are still waiting to learn more details about the assault and would like to encourage all students to attend (the forum).”
Any additional information should be reported to SLOPD at (805) 781-7312.