City’s Reported Rapes Down

COLUMBUS, Ohio—Central Ohio women took safety seriously at this time last year when the Columbus serial rapist was on the loose.

Columbus police said that may be one reason why the number of reported rapes is down this year.

Columbus Police Sergeant David Pelphrey told NBC 4 at this time last year, there were 495 reported rapes.

So far this year there have been 450.

Pelphrey said it’s important to remain vigilant even when the news headlines aren’t highlighting the issue.

New students, especially freshmen who aren’t familiar with Columbus, can be targeted, Pelphrey said.

Pelprhey said it’s a good idea to take self-defense classes.

Don’t be a creature of habit. Change up the routes you take.

If it’s dark outside, park close to street lights.

For additional information, stay with NBC 4 and refresh nbc4i.com—Where Accuracy Matters.
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