On Thursday, Nov. 14, DU’s Department of Campus Safety (DCS) released a crime alert warning the DU community that three sexual assaults had been reported near campus within the past two weeks.

According to DCS Sgt. Stephen Banet, the three cases were reported to DCS by the Campus Title IX Office, which is responsible for investigating cases of sexual conduct and sexual assault.

Banet said DCS had no information about which specific days the attacks took place or where, as the victims did not file reports, but were told about the assaults by the Title IX office.

According to the crime alert, at least one of the attacks may have involved the use of date rape drugs.

DCS also sent out an email Friday reminding students, faculty and staff of safety precautions to take when walking on or near campus.

“Campus Safety officials will be stepping up patrols around the campus and increasing the number of patrols on nearby streets,” the email said.

The email further encouraged DU students to be aware of the possibility of the use of date rape drugs and take safety precautions.

According to Banet, the number of sexual assaults reported to DCS this year has doubled since 2012, when there were two reported cases of forcible sexual assaults. So far this year, there have been four reported cases from January to September.

Banet encouraged students to exercise caution for both themselves and others.

“Be a good friend,” said Banet. “If you see a friend that’s overly intoxicated get help for them, don’t leave them at a bar, restaurant or party.”

He also encouraged students to be cautious of what they are consuming.

“If you feel like something has been given to you in your drink and are having problems talking or with motor movements, get to a safe place and call campus safety or DPD.” he said.

Anyone with information relating to cases of sexual assault can contact DCS Crime Prevention and Victim Services at 303-871-3019.