Deslandes calls for vigilance after reported rape at CASE
Published:Tuesday | December 16, 2025 | 12:09 AMGareth Davis Sr/Gleaner Writer
Passley Gardens, Portland:
President of the College of Agriculture, Science, and Education (CASE), Derrick Deslandes, has condemned Sunday’s alleged rape of a female student by unknown assailants on the institution’s property, which has left students traumatised.
Deslandes, who spoke to The Gleaner yesterday, emphasised the need for students to be more vigilant and aware of their surroundings, while encouraging them to move about in groups. This, he said, could deter those who use the cover of darkness to attack and prey upon the innocence and vulnerability of students.
“We would have put certain security measures in place to protect and safeguard the movement of our students. It is a big property, which also houses a tunnel, and therefore we encouraged our students to adopt safe practices,” he said.
“We also provide a shuttle service for our students to move from one point to the next. We have also set up cameras at various points, but these incidents are never repeated in the same location. There are conflicting reports as to what might have happen; however, we are providing the necessary support to the student at this time.
“She is traumatised, but she is receiving counselling at this time. It is a nightmare experience and a very unfortunate one, which has affected other students. The police are investigating the incident, but CASE is playing its part in putting in additional security measures to prevent any future incidents.”
According to a police source, a female student reportedly got out of a taxi on Sunday night on the college’s property and was walking towards the administrative office when she was grabbed from behind by her assailants, who raped her.
Following the incident, CASE issued a statement to students encouraging them to move in groups where possible, and for them to report any suspicious behaviour to campus security or the directorate of student affairs.
“CASE takes this matter extremely seriously. Our foremost concern is the well-being of the student involved, and the college has been providing support through the appropriate channels since the report was received,” the statement read.
“CASE maintains a zero-tolerance stance on sexual violence and all forms of misconduct. Any act that threatens the safety, dignity, or well-being of members of our community is wholly unacceptable and will be addressed in accordance with the law and institutional policy.
“The college encourages any individual who may have information related to this incident to come forward through the appropriate channels. CASE remains committed to fostering a campus environment that is safe, supportive and respectful.”