The Latest: Man Accused of Raping UH Student at Knifepoint Arrested by Houston METRO Police
It was an ordinary evening on the University of Houston’s campus. Students were heading to and from class, some parking at the Welcome Center. But for one student, this ordinary day turned into a nightmare when she was attacked at knifepoint in the parking garage.
SAFETY: How safe do university students in Houston feel? What can be done to protect students better?
This incident was just one in a string of violent crimes that have shaken the University of Houston community, prompting an ongoing investigation and a search for the suspect. Students have voiced concerns about campus safety as officials acknowledge missteps in handling the case.
CONCERN: University of Houston Police urge vigilance after string of violent attacks
Here’s a timeline of the key events:
February 4: Attack at UH South-University Oaks Metro Rail Platform
On Tuesday, a person was attacked and robbed while at the UH South-University Oaks Metro Rail platform. The incident raised concerns about security in and around campus transit areas.
February 5: Student Robbed in Parking Garage
The following day, a University of Houston student was assaulted and had their scooter stolen while waiting for an elevator in the same parking garage. The attack further heightened worries about campus safety.
February 7: Sexual Assault Reported, Suspect Arrested and Released
UH police began investigating a sexual assault that occurred in a campus parking garage. A 21-year-old student reported being attacked at knifepoint by Eric Latroy Brown, who also stole her mail and $30 in cash.
The assault took place around 5:50 p.m. on the second floor of the Welcome Center Student Parking Garage. UH released a statement expressing concern over the string of crimes and reaffirming its commitment to campus safety. Brown was arrested later that night, but initial charges of resisting arrest and assault were declined due to a lack of sufficient evidence, leading to his release.
February 12: Charges Filed, Suspect on the Run
Five days after his release, Eric Latroy Brown was officially charged with two counts of aggravated sexual assault and one count of aggravated robbery. However, by then, he was no longer in custody, sparking a law enforcement search. In response, students gathered on campus to protest, sharing their fears and calling for immediate improvements to campus security measures.
February 14: District Attorney Acknowledges Errors
Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare admitted that mistakes were made in Brown’s release, citing a breakdown in communication. The acknowledgment did little to ease students’ frustrations, as many demanded accountability and policy changes to prevent similar incidents.
February 18: Law Enforcement Announces Reward for Suspect’s Capture
A joint news conference was held by Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare, Crime Stoppers Houston, and UH Police Chief Ceaser Moore. Officials announced a $5,000 reward for information leading to Brown’s arrest, urging the public to assist in locating him.
February 21: State Rep. Jolanda Jones Hosts Town Hall
State Representative Jolanda Jones is hosting an Emergency Town Hall at Emancipation Park in Third Ward, Houston. The event will focus on addressing the University of Houston’s safety crisis, with a community discussion on campus crime and the steps needed to protect students. Jones emphasizes that UH’s academic reputation should not be overshadowed by concerns about safety and is urging action to ensure the well-being of the student body.
February 28: Eric Latroy Brown was Arrested
Around 2:50 p.m., the manhunt for Brown ended following an arrest by METRO police. Officers saw him on surveillance cameras on the light rail tracks. They arrested him at the EaDo platform at Texas and Emancipation Streets.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What happened to the student who was attacked at knifepoint?
A: The student was attacked and robbed while waiting for an elevator in the Welcome Center Student Parking Garage.
Q: Who was the suspect in the attack?
A: Eric Latroy Brown
Q: What charges was Brown facing?
A: Brown was charged with two counts of aggravated sexual assault and one count of aggravated robbery.
Q: What is the current status of the case?
A: Brown was arrested and is currently in custody.
Q: What measures are being taken to improve campus safety?
A: UH police are urging vigilance and are working to improve security measures on campus.
Q: What is the current situation with the suspect’s release?
A: The suspect was initially released due to a lack of sufficient evidence, but was later rearrested and charged.
