Survey: 1 in 5 UF coeds have been sexually assaulted

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) – A new survey shows one in five University of Florida coeds say they’ve been sexually assaulted since arriving on the Gainesville campus. But nearly 60 percent say they didn’t consider it “serious enough” to report to authorities.

The survey was recently conducted at 27 universities and colleges by the Association of American Universities.

University officials say they’re troubled by the high rate of students who don’t report assaults.

Chris Loschiavo, who directs student conduct and conflict resolution, say the assaults are often committed by a friend or acquaintance and students may think it’s not serious because it’s someone they know.

Loschiavo says they’ll analyze the data and continue “to encourage students to report their experiences.”

The Gainesville Sun reports the university covers sexual assault and harassment during freshman orientation.