UCSC Rape was Fake, Police Say

UCSC police said that the alleged rape reported on Presidents Day weekend did not actually happen.

In a memo released on campus Thursday, Campus Provost Alison Galloway told students that the 21-year-old victim admitted to staging the attack. Evidence found by police corroborated that, she said.

The case will be sent to the District Attorney's office for possible prosecution.

The 21-year-old, who said she was visiting the campus, originally told police she was raped and physically assaulted shortly after noon that Sunday in a remote area adjacent to the campus's Classroom Unit buildings, said a report by Police Chief Nader Oweis.

"Our officers, with a great deal of support from Santa Cruz City Police Department and the District Attorney's Office, have worked almost 'round the clock on this since the attack was first reported 11 days ago," Oweis said. "I'm grateful for everyone's considerable efforts."

The campus has rescinded the $5,000 reward it had offered.

Added Galloway:

"The events of the last few weeks, including the dreadful shooting deaths Tuesday of two Santa Cruz Police Department detectives, have increased anxiety on campus and concerns about overall safety," Galloway wrote. "It is regretful that this false report heightened that anxiety. However, it is clear that vigilance is still necessary."

She added that students and staff should:

• Always be alert to your surroundings.
• Walk in groups whenever you can — there is always safety in numbers.
• Stay in well-lit areas as much as possible. Use designated pathways and roadways. Avoid areas that are isolated.
• Trust your instincts. If something makes you uneasy, avoid the person or leave.
• Immediately report all suspicious persons, incidents, or information to the UC Santa Cruz Police Department.