Texas Tech University recently notified students of a string of sexual assault incidents involving rideshare drivers near campus. Caitlynn Jeffries is with the Texas Tech Police Department and clarified that these instances did not happen on the TTU campus.
Sarah Cardona is a Sophomore at Texas Tech University and said she has encountered several experiences that made her uncomfortable while using a rideshare service near the campus and feels safer walking.
“A lot of the time you’re honestly safer walking to a lot of places around here because there is police everywhere. You’re able to call out for help when you’re outside, but in a car you can’t do that,” Cardona said.
Sophomore students Lucas David and Mason Rodriguez said when they learned about the assaults the concern grew for the safety of others around them.
“Not necessarily my safety, but I know I have friends and a girlfriend and they go out and do their things and I’m concerned for them,” David said.
Jeffries said that students should be aware of their surroundings and do some double checking before they use a rideshare service.
“Make sure you check the license plate and the driver photo in the app,” Jeffries said.
She also said that the Texas Tech Police are always there to make sure all students are safe even if you don’t see them.
“No matter what is going on campus, we are constantly monitoring, making sure things are going on…when we get reports of certain things that are happening on campus, we try to keep an eye out for those things. Ultimately, we are there ensuring the safety of students all year round,” Jeffries said.
If you or someone you know is looking for assistance reporting a sexual assault to Texas Tech or finding resources click here.
