Police department covers the cruiser to support survivors of sexual assault

The Purdue University Police Department (PUPD) recently partnered with the Center for Advocacy, Response and Education (CARE)for an event called “Cover the Cruiser” to help support and raise awareness for survivors of sexual assault.

The event was held on the West Lafayette campus. Students, faculty, staff and community members placed notes with words of encouragement and positivity for survivors of sexual assault on one of the department’s vehicles.

PUPD then collected the notes and printed a picture of the CARE staff, officers and “covered” vehicle. Officers signed the picture, placed some of the notes around it, and framed it as a gift for CARE.

“We wanted to show our gratitude for the staff of CARE and all they do for our campus community,” Chief Lesley Wiete said. “It’s important for us to bring awareness to sexual assault, and this is an opportunity to start a conversation that can raise awareness and remind the campus community to be diligent in the actions they take to stay safe.”

The gift was recently presented to CARE staff, with Wiete sharing a message of support for the partnership between the department and center.

Review the safety tips on the PUPD website to help avoid sexual assault. Information about services and programs available to survivors is on the CARE website.

PUPD is part of the Administrative Operations organization. The organization provides the university with safe, reliable and transformative services. Raising awareness in an effort to inform and protect the campus community is just one of the many ways the organization helps power Purdue.