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Police: Woman Raped In Harvard Yard In Cambridge

CAMBRIDGE (CBS) - A woman was raped on the Harvard University campus early Friday Morning, according to the school's police department.

The woman, who is not a student at the school, reported she was attacked in Harvard Yard around 3:15 a.m.

She told police that a man grabbed her as she attempted to walk through the Johnston Gate into the Yard. The victim was dragged into Harvard Yard behind Massachusetts Hall, where she reportedly was raped.

The suspect is described as "very tanned," possible Hispanic, mid-twenties, 5'7", medium build, and dark hair. He was wearing a white shirt.

Police are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact them.

University police issued an advisory saying they will be stepping up patrols by both uniformed and plainclothes officers in and around Harvard Yard and the surrounding campus.

"This incident is being actively investigated by the Harvard University Police Department's Criminal Investigation Division," the advisory stated. "Detectives are contacting area police departments in an effort to identify the suspect."

The university also sent out an advisory reminding community members to be vigilant while walking around campus and surrounding areas both during the day and at night, and to take appropriate precautions.

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