Officers with the West Virginia University Department of Public Safety are asking the public for help in their investigation of a reported forcible fondling incident that occurred early Tuesday (Aug. 21) near Purinton House on the Downtown Campus.

The victim reported leaving a party on Fife Street and walking near Purinton House when the incident took place just before 12:30 a.m.

The suspect is described as a white male with brown eyes, wearing a dark, hooded sweat shirt. No further description is available.

Anyone with information about the incident is urged contact WVU DPS at 304-293-2677 (COPS).

WVU Police are providing the following tips to help increase safety:

• Never walk alone at night. Statistics indicate your chances of being a victim of an assault are reduced by up to 65 percent if you travel with a companion.

• When traveling on foot or in your car, pay attention to your surroundings. If you sense something is wrong, leave the area immediately.

• If walking alone, walk briskly and confidently and stay on well-lighted, well-traveled paths. Avoid isolated areas, short cuts and deserted parking lots.

• If you see someone suspicious, or feel you are being followed, go to a well-populated or well-lighted area, call 911 on your cell phone or activate one of the 37 Blue Tower Emergency Phones located on the University campus. Dont be afraid to call the police if you suspect you are being followed.

• If you are a victim of a crime, or witness to a crime, report the incident as soon as possible.

University Police Training Division offers free self defense training for both women and men. For information, call 304-293-COPS.