More rapes reported by college students

Victim advocates for the Charleston Police Department say date rapes and sexual assaults involving alcohol have become more commonplace among college-aged women in this port city.

There were 33 women who reported being raped in Charleston in the first eight months of the year, compared to 24 incidents in the same time period in 2007. As many of half of the current cases involved alcohol or drugs in some way, authorities said.

Victim advocates say young women need to know their limits when drinking, keep their wits about them and call police if they suspect they've been assaulted.

"We don't want anybody to feel afraid to come forward, even if they are underage. They won't be penalized," victim advocate Carlaise Gadsden said. "We want to make sure we have an open door and they receive the services they need."

Gadsden and fellow advocate Heather Hillman plan to speak to students at the College of Charleston on Monday night about this danger and will offer safety tips. They also are considering placing fliers or pamphlets in city bars as a reminder to young women to watch their backs when drinking.

Read Sunday's Post and Courier to read more about this problem and how it is being addressed.