Counselor Reacts To Recent Sexual Assault Reports At OK Schools

<p>Recently we have heard of a number of sexual assaults either happening on school campuses or during school-sanctioned events.</p>

Monday, February 8th 2016, 11:01 pm

By: News On 6

Counselor Reacts To Recent Sexual Assault Reports At OK Schools

Recently we have heard of a number of sexual assaults either happening on school campuses or during school-sanctioned events.

An investigation is underway at Hilldale High School after reports of a sexual assault involving two minors on campus. It comes days after a disturbing sexual assault investigation at Nathan Hale High School.

We spoke to counselors at DVIS about how students can protect themselves from becoming a potential victim.

Muskogee police and school administrators won't say much about a sexual assault at Hilldale High School; only that the investigation involves minor students, and that it happened on school property last Wednesday.

On Thursday, 18-year-old Nathan Hale student, Sean Adams was arrested. Detectives say he grabbed a girl's arm at school then took her off campus and raped her.

Counselor Lori Gonzalez said, "This is a common occurrence, unfortunately. The good thing is people are coming forward and shedding light on this."

One of the most disturbing cases, recently, involved four Norman North high school wrestlers who are accused of sexual assaulting a 12-year-old boy on the way back from a tournament.

Moore Police said they are investigating two similar incidents at schools in their city.

"We live in a society, unfortunately, that laughs about and pokes fun at these things, so it's important to confront those who are acting out," Gonzalez said.

She said teachers need to pay attention when a student is making a rape or stalking joke and let them know it's unacceptable.

"The reality is perpetrators will find a way to perpetrate,” Gonzalez said.

She said students can download a few apps - like Circle of 6, which will alert six friends and family members you are in trouble with the touch of a button.

If you have been a victim of sexual assault and haven't reported it by calling the DVIS 24-hour hotline at 918-7-HELPME.