We gleaned some information. It was clear the VIU person and RCMP contact for VIU haven't met. They had to go over procedure and protocol. So clearly this isn't a regular occurrence. There are no other reports of this nature at VIU. They will try to match Lili's file with community files. RCMP feel this was likely a transient person and he was likely on drugs. He indicated that crimes of this nature are almost always repeated and that most issues in Nanaimo are with their homeless population. Hmmm. Not my words. We all agree that this was unlikely a student. Lili gave permission for a media release but they would like to finish their initial investigation first. There is always fear that the perpetrator will hide if they know it's in the news. Conversely, if he's sick enough to do such things in the first place, is a news article really going to deter him? Unlikely.
The big news is that there is camera footage. It is reportedly dark and grainy. Lili, RCMP and the VIU laison haven't seen it yet.
A couple hours after we left RCMP, VIU sent out an email to every student and staff.
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Date: Fri, Dec 8, 2023 at 3:37 PM
Subject: Trigger warning: Safety and security reminder following an incident on campus
To:
Subject: Trigger warning: Safety and security reminder following an incident on campus
To:
Dear VIU community,
Please note: this message addresses an incident of indecent exposure. Supports are available for students and employees.
On the evening of December 6 on the Nanaimo campus, an unknown male on a bicycle exposed himself to a student. VIU is supporting the affected student and the RCMP has been notified. As the individual has not been located, we are sharing this information out of an abundance of caution and care and concern for our community.
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Overall we're pleased with VIU's handling of the situation. Lili wrote a lovely heartfelt thank you to the women who put out the email. She genuinely feels better knowing an effort was made to warn everyone.
