Woman Sexually Battered at Florida Memorial University Campus; Investigation Ongoing

An investigation is underway after a woman reported being sexually battered on the campus of Florida Memorial University (FMU) in Miami Gardens, according to local police. The incident has raised serious concerns about campus safety and security, prompting an increased law enforcement presence and renewed discussions about preventative measures.

According to the Miami Gardens Police Department, the incident occurred on Sunday while the victim was waiting at a bus stop near the FMU campus. The woman told officers that an unknown man began whistling at her while she waited.

Feeling uncomfortable, the victim left the bus stop and walked back toward campus to return to her dormitory. Police say the suspect followed her, and at one point pinned her against a building door and sexually battered her before fleeing the area.

Police described the suspect as a Black male, approximately six feet tall, wearing a black hoodie and black pants. As of the latest update, the suspect has not been identified or apprehended.

The report has shaken the FMU student body. Several students expressed concern over how the suspect was able to access the campus and whether additional safety measures could have prevented the attack.

In response, Florida Memorial University President William McCormick released a statement emphasizing that the school takes the matter seriously and has heightened both internal and external security protocols. The university is also working closely with law enforcement and providing updates to the campus community as appropriate.

Miami Gardens Police confirmed they have increased high-visibility patrols in the area and offered additional resources to support campus safety while the investigation continues.

Potential Legal Options for the Victim

In addition to the criminal investigation, victims of sexual battery may have civil legal options available to them, depending on the circumstances surrounding the attack. These options can exist even if the suspect is not immediately identified or arrested.

If evidence shows that reasonable security measures were lacking, the victim may have grounds to pursue a claim against parties responsible for campus safety. This could include:

• Inadequate lighting
• Insufficient security patrols
• Broken or unsecured access points
• Failure to monitor or control access to campus housing areas

Colleges and universities have a legal duty to take reasonable steps to protect students from foreseeable harm, especially in residential and high-traffic areas.

Police urge anyone with information about the incident to contact the Miami Gardens Police Department’s Special Victims Unit or submit an anonymous tip through Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS.

Survivors of sexual violence are also encouraged to seek confidential support through counseling services, victim advocacy organizations, or trusted campus resources.

Sexual battery is a devastating crime that can have lasting emotional and physical effects. As the investigation continues, questions remain about how the suspect accessed campus grounds and what additional safety measures may be necessary to protect students and staff.

Victims deserve not only justice through the criminal system but also accountability where preventable failures may have contributed to their harm. Anyone affected by similar incidents may benefit from understanding their rights and exploring all available legal and support options.