Huddersfield University man charged with nine sexual assaults on campus
A 29-year-old man sexually assaulted seven women in 30 minutes at Huddersfield University. Sophan Akbash faces nine counts of sexual assault.
Nine charges filed after campus assaults in Huddersfield
Sophan Akbash, 29, of Huddersfield, has been charged with nine counts of sexual assault following a series of incidents at the University of Huddersfield on Tuesday evening, westyorkshire.police.uk reports.
Seven women were sexually assaulted within a 30-minute window between 6pm and 6.30pm. Security staff contacted police after reports of a man approaching and sexually touching women on and near the campus. The women had fled after the suspect "approached and grabbed at them", according to West Yorkshire Police.
Akbash appeared at Leeds Magistrates Court on Friday.
Detective Inspector Sarah Bradley of West Yorkshire Police said officers were "working closely" with the university "to provide reassurance to students and staff" and remained "fully committed to supporting victims and safeguarding those who live, study and work in Huddersfield."
The university's deputy vice-chancellor, Professor Tim Thornton, acknowledged that "incidents of this nature are deeply concerning" and confirmed that wellbeing support was being made available to anyone affected. Security patrols around campus have been increased as a precautionary measure.
Thornton also urged members of the university community to use the SafeZone app, which provides direct access to emergency assistance and campus safety teams. "We remain committed to maintaining a safe and supportive environment for everyone who studies, works and visits our campus," he said.
Source: Google News UK — Crime (en)