CRIME ALERT

From Taos Police Dept.

 

June 7, 2010

Taos Police Investigating Two Similar Sexual Assaults

Taos Police are investigating two possibly related sexual assaults, both involving women who had been in bars in the Taos Plaza area. 

In both cases, the women reported having memory lapses and waking up partially clothed in a different location.  Police say the first incident occurred on December 31, 2009, and the second on April 23, 2010. 

Taos Police believe the suspect/suspects may be using a drug to facilitate the assault. 

Any other victims who may have experienced similar occurrences and have not yet reported to law enforcement, or anyone who may have information about the incidents, is asked to call the Taos Police Department at 575-737-4656.

Taos Police offer the following safety tips:

·         Be aware of your surroundings — who’s out there and what’s going on.

·         Know your limits when it comes to using alcohol. Moderation is the key.

·         If you go out with friends, leave with your friends. Friends keep an eye out for each other at all times. Don't let a friend leave alone.

·         Don't lose track of your drink and don't accept open drinks. Do not drink from a container that has been left unattended for any length of time.

·         Have a secret "help" signal with friends if you don't feel comfortable with someone at a club or bar.

·         Be assertive — don’t let anyone violate your space. Walk with confidence. The more confident you look, the stronger you appear.

·         Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable in your surroundings, leave.

·         Don’t prop open self-locking doors.

·         Lockable doors in your casita room should be locked.

·         Watch your keys. Don’t lend them. Don’t leave them. Don’t lose them. And don’t put your name and address on the key ring.

Students with any questions about the Taos Plaza establishments should ask Mike Adler or Anne Weil of SMU-in-Taos at 575-758-8516 or 575-758-8322.