Drugging, sexual assault reported at University of New Hampshire

Campus police at the University of New Hampshire are investigating two recent sexual assault cases, the department said in a statement.

The first alleged incident, a sexual assault, happened between Sept. 20 at 10:30 p.m. and Sept. 21 at 3 a.m. in the suspect’s dorm building on campus, the statement said. Police said the victim believes the suspect may have drugged their drink. The victim and the suspect were known to each other, police said. 

The second reported incident happened Sept. 19, police said. Another victim said the same suspect may have drugged them as well, the report said. Police did not say if the second victim was assaulted.

University Police said Wednesday that they had identified a person of interest in the case, but will not share any further information “to protect the integrity of the investigation” and protect those impacted by the incidents.

“Survivors are never responsible for the offenders’ behavior,” the statement said. 

While the investigation is underway, UNH police reminded students to stay safe, trust their instincts, call a safety escort on campus, and utilize campus resources if necessary.