Student Groped in Harvard Yard

A female undergraduate was groped in Harvard Yard Saturday night, marking the fourth assault in the Square over the last four months.

The victim called the Harvard University Police Department (HUPD) around 9 p.m. and reported that she had been touched inappropriately by a man on a bike while walking near Harvard Hall, according to HUPD spokesperson Steven. G. Catalano.

Catalano said the victim was “groped in the buttocks area.”

The suspect was still on his bicycle when the assault occurred, Catalano said.

The victim had noticed a male on a bicycle minutes earlier when she was walking by Holworthy Hall, and she confirmed that the same male had groped her.

Catalano said the victim and the suspect exchanged no words and the suspect rode off through Johnston Gate on his bicycle.

The incident was classified as an indecent assault and battery.

Catalano said HUPD detectives are talking to Cambridge Police Department officials to determine if this incident is connected to the three previous incidents in the Harvard Square area since late October.

On Oct. 24 in Cambridge Common, police said a male grabbed a female undergraduate’s wrist and waist, spun her around, grabbed her breast and then attempted to remove her coat.

Another undergraduate was reportedly struck from behind and forced to the ground in the St. Paul’s church parking lot by an unidentified man on Dec. 2. The incident was classified as assault with intent to rape.

And on Dec. 11, a graduate student encountered a man on Mt. Auburn and Dunster Streets who allegedly attempted to grab her crotch.

Police have said they believe the alleged assaults were committed by different individuals.

Catalano said students should be cautious walking around campus after dark.

“We understand people are putting in long hours,” he said. “We strongly encourage students to make use of the shuttle buses and the escort vans. If they do insist on walking, try to walk in groups.”

Harvard University Shuttle Service is offering around-the-clock service during reading period.