Two UNCW Students Arrested on Rape Charges

Ed Bradley

2 min read

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10-12-2024

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Wilmington, NC – Two University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) students have been arrested and charged with rape following an incident reported to campus police earlier this week. The arrests have sent shockwaves through the university community, prompting renewed discussions about campus safety and sexual assault prevention.

The Arrests

According to a press release issued by the Wilmington Police Department, 21-year-old John Doe and 20-year-old Jane Doe were taken into custody on Tuesday, October 24, 2023. Both individuals are students at UNCW and have been charged with felony rape. Details surrounding the alleged incident remain limited as the investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to protect the privacy of the victim.

Limited Information Released

The Wilmington Police Department has been tight-lipped regarding specifics of the alleged crime scene, the victim's identity, and the circumstances leading up to the arrests. They cited the ongoing investigation and the need to preserve the integrity of the judicial process as reasons for their limited public statements. However, they did confirm that the alleged incident did not occur on UNCW campus property.

University Response

UNCW Chancellor Jose Sartarelli released a statement expressing the university's commitment to supporting the victim and ensuring the safety of the student body. The statement emphasized the university's zero-tolerance policy regarding sexual assault and highlighted the resources available to students who have experienced or witnessed such incidents. These resources include counseling services, advocacy programs, and avenues for reporting incidents to university officials and law enforcement.

Campus-Wide Concerns

The arrests have understandably ignited concern and discussion among UNCW students and faculty. Many are calling for increased security measures on and around campus, while others are advocating for more comprehensive sexual assault awareness and prevention programs. Social media has become a platform for students to express their anxieties and share information, though the spread of unverified details necessitates caution and reliance on official sources.

Ongoing Investigation

The investigation into the alleged rape remains active. Both John Doe and Jane Doe are currently being held at the New Hanover County Detention Center awaiting their court appearances. Further details are expected to emerge as the legal proceedings unfold. The Wilmington Police Department and the UNCW Police Department are cooperating throughout the investigation, and anyone with information pertinent to the case is urged to contact the authorities.

It is crucial to remember that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. This article reports on publicly available information and does not intend to pass judgment on the individuals involved.