Police Describe Rape Suspect

The Harvard University Police Department (HUPD) yesterday released a description of the man suspected of sexually assaulting and robbing an Adams House student Tuesday evening.

HUPD Dispatcher John Green said the suspect is a white male who is between 6' and 6'2" and has a stock-type build. His age is not known.

At the time of the alleged attack, the suspect was wearing a dark-colored, wool-type sweater, which may have been cuffed at the sleeves. His pants were dark in color with the feel of polyester and he was carrying a cloth bookbag.

The suspect may have a beard and he has dark hair on his hand. His voice was described as being "gravely [and] low pitched," according to an advisory posters distributed by HUPD to students in all river houses.

In response to the incident, Adams House Master Robert J. Kiely '60 sent a letter to all Adams House residents yesterday.

"By now you have heard about the attack on an Adams House student near the Linden Street entrance of Randolph Court last night at about 10:45 p.m.," Kiely said in the letter.

"I want to thank those of you who came to her help and are continuing to be of support to her," the letter continued. "I am relieved to know that she is doing quite well."

Keily urged residents to lock their suite doors and report any suspicious persons to the Harvard police. He also urged any students who may have heard or observed anything Tuesday night to inform the police.

Adams House students and administrators expressed concern over campus security yesterday.

"I definitely am concerned. I guess I have felt a little too safe lately," said Heidi K. Curran '96. "All of the sudden I feel like I've been taking risks."

Dean of the College Harry R. Lewis '68 discussed recent safety problems on campus during the Committee on House Life meeting yesterday. (see story, page 8).

Lewis said he would likely write a letter to students informing them of recent security incidents, including a series of break-ins at Mathews Hall.

Lewis said he strongly urges all students to lock their doors and is frustrated by the low rates of safety precautions they have taken

"It was not late at night on a well-lit street," Lewis said. "What can one say except that students, women in particular, should try to travel with someone?"

Green said that students should use "normal, common sense behavior" such as walking in groups and using well-lit streets when traversing campus.

"Just be aware of your surroundings," Green said. "Try to stay on sidewalks...stay away from dark areas."

Adams House resident Amelia A. Kaplan '96-'97 said she was "shocked" by the alleged attempted assault.

"My roommates and I were just saying we feel really safe," Kaplan said. "We have been here a long time, feeling safe all the way through. I still feel safe and that scares me even more."

--Rachel C. Telegen contributed to the reporting of this article.

"I definitely am concerned. I guess I have felt a little too safe lately," said Heidi K. Curran '96. "All of the sudden I feel like I've been taking risks."

Dean of the College Harry R. Lewis '68 discussed recent safety problems on campus during the Committee on House Life meeting yesterday. (see story, page 8).

Lewis said he would likely write a letter to students informing them of recent security incidents, including a series of break-ins at Mathews Hall.

Lewis said he strongly urges all students to lock their doors and is frustrated by the low rates of safety precautions they have taken

"It was not late at night on a well-lit street," Lewis said. "What can one say except that students, women in particular, should try to travel with someone?"

Green said that students should use "normal, common sense behavior" such as walking in groups and using well-lit streets when traversing campus.

"Just be aware of your surroundings," Green said. "Try to stay on sidewalks...stay away from dark areas."

Adams House resident Amelia A. Kaplan '96-'97 said she was "shocked" by the alleged attempted assault.

"My roommates and I were just saying we feel really safe," Kaplan said. "We have been here a long time, feeling safe all the way through. I still feel safe and that scares me even more."

--Rachel C. Telegen contributed to the reporting of this article.