Hunter
11/10/22
Reports of rape on the University of Iowa campus rose dramatically in 2021, according to statistics from the University’s Department of Public Safety.
The figures show rape reports reached 64 in 2021, up from 38 in 2020. There were also 89 reports of stalking and 25 domestic violence incidents, both higher numbers than the year before.
University spokeswoman Haley Bruce told the Gazette that the statistics make clear that people’s interpersonal behavior was volatile during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. She added that they don’t necessarily indicate that the campus is any less safe than past years, but does indicate that the university is getting more reports.
Iowa State University police chief Michael Newton echoed those sentiments, telling the paper that people are getting more comfortable coming forward, which is a good thing, but he acknowledged that rape is still an under-reported crime.
In presenting the latest study to the Board of Regents Wednesday, UI Public Safety Director Mark Bullock said reports of rape have dropped dramatically so far this year.
All public universities reported an uptick in vehicle burglaries and thefts, some of which due to students leaving cars unlocked or leaving their keys in the vehicles.