Investigation of Alleged TJC Sexual Assault Continues

TYLER – TJC Police are continuing an investigation into an alleged sexual assault of a female TJC student. According to college officials, based upon an interview with the student, Campus Police now believe the alleged assault was not a random event and that there is no threat to others in the TJC community. Officials say details of the reported assault are unclear, including the location, time, place, and description of the alleged perpetrator. The suspect was initially described as a black male, 6 feet tall, weighing 300 pounds, wearing a TJC shirt and blue jeans.

TJC police were summoned to East Texas Medical Center Sunday evening by Tyler Police, who were called after the arrival of a patient. College officials say TJC issued a “timely warning” notice to the campus community via emergency text, email, and social media as soon as preliminary details were provided by initial interviews with the student and her relatives. Police are continuing to piece together a timeline of events related to the alleged assault, including the whereabouts of the student and others whom she came in contact with Saturday night and early Sunday morning. Video surveillance is aiding in the investigation, TJC Police Chief Randt Melton said.

TJC President Dr. Mike Metke said students, employees and visitors to TJC facilities should be confident of their safety. “I continue to hear positive comments from parents, students and employees about the measures we take each day to ensure the safety of everyone who comes in contact with TJC,” he said.