Maplewood Assault Victim Not A SOMSD Student

MAPLEWOOD, NJ – While details of the ongoing investigation into the home invasion and sexual assault of a Maplewood woman remain scarce, South Orange Maplewood School District officials say the victim was not a student in the district.

“You may have read or heard that the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit and the Maplewood Police Department are investigating a home invasion and sexual assault of a young woman which took place during the day yesterday,” school officials said in an email. “The young woman is not an SOMSD student, but our thoughts go out to her as she heals from this traumatic event. Since the investigation is ongoing, no details are being released.”

Officials said they were contacting parents so they can have conversations at home about safety protocols, including:

• Walk to and from school or town as part of a group, rather than alone.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Don’t talk to strangers or give personal information out to anyone you don’t know.
• If you feel you are being followed, go to a public place or call 911.
• If you see something suspicious, call 911.
• Don’t be embarrassed to ask for help.

Maplewood Police Chief Police Chief Jim DeVaul said residents should call 911 if they see a suspicious person, vehicle or activity. DeVaul said residents should be wary of their surroundings, especially when walking alone, and not to share personal information with strangers.

“Do not open your door to strangers, talk through an open window if you have to,” DeVaul said. “And call 911 if you are being followed.”

DeVaul also said there would be an increased police presence in town.

“Until further notice the Maplewood Police will have additional personnel assigned to ensure the safety of our community,” DeVaul said. “Maplewood will provide a minimum of daily updates in the investigation as it proceeds and as information becomes available.”

School officials said that if children are exhibiting any signs of anxiety or stress in reaction to news of this incident to reach out to arrange for extra support from the school social workers and guidance counselors.

“We thank you for your continuing partnership in keeping our students and our community safe,” officials said.

(Photo courtesy of Shutterstock)

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