OCC Stresses Safety After Assault

In the wake of an assault on a student Friday afternoon, officials at Orange Coast College reminded students, faculty and staff of safety precautions.

A man grabbed the 17-year-old student by the arm outside Robert B. Moore Theatre about 1 p.m. Friday and forced her to the Fine Arts Building, where he pushed her against a wall and fondled her breast, police said. The girl kicked him and ran off.

Police described the man as black, in his late 20s, about 6 feet 2 with a heavy build, brown eyes, shaved head, mustache and goatee. He wore a white cloth visor, as well as a red string with keys around his neck.

Officials issued the following safety reminders:

* Avoid walking alone; make use of a free, 24-hour campus escort service;

* Use one of the red emergency phones located throughout campus if needed;

* Be aware of surroundings;

* Do not hesitate to scream and don’t worry about hurting someone if threatened.

Anyone with information about the assault can call (714) 432-5017. For an escort after hours, call (714) 904-4630 or page at (714) 651-3785.