ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – The Orange County Sheriff's Office is searching for the man who they are calling the suspect in an attempted sexual battery at the Marquee Apartments.
Deputies said they were called to the 1200 block of Sterling University Lane just before 1:30 a.m. Monday
The victim told deputies she was approached by a man who grabbed her by the arm and threw her to the ground, where he attempted to sexually batter her, according to a news release.
OCSO released a surveillance photo of a man who they previously called a person of interest, but are now calling a suspect. The man is believed to live in the area, deputies said, and the victim does not live at Marquee Apartments, but the surveillance photos are from the complex's cameras.
The University of Central Florida Police Department said it is encouraging people to remain vigilant and contact police regarding activity that seems suspicious.
"Watch your surroundings, just kind of keep an eye out," UCF student Jennifer Cardon said.
"A lot of people say, 'Oh, carry pepper-spray. Use your keys as some claws and try and punch them," UCF student Conny Cruz said.
Cruz and her friend said it's upsetting to know a woman was targeted walking alone.
"On campus, you don't really feel that fear because there's so many people walking around, but at apartments there's not really anyone around," Cruz said.
"Girls shouldn't be afraid to walk in the dark like, you know, they're always telling you, 'Oh, you have to be careful,' and what-not, but it shouldn't have to be that way but sadly it is," Cardon said.
UCF alerted students on Twitter and in an email, urging them to be aware of their surrounding.
"It's sad that this stuff happens, but I've had emails like this before, so it's not like anything new," UCF student Irvin Matteina said.
"Unfortunately this neighborhood is not known for its safety, but it's kind of those things that aren't very uncommon near college campuses," student John Beetar said.
SEPS, UCFPD's safe escort service, is available on campus from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. Officials said it can be reached by calling 407-823-2424.
Crimeline is offering a $5,000 reward for anyone that has information.
Those with information about the attempted sexual battery can contact deputies or Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS.