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PHILIPPI -- Alderson Broaddus University officials confirmed Friday that alleged sexual assaults and sexual harrassment incidents are being investigated on the campus, and also announced that three students have tested positive for COVID-19.
"The University takes these matters very seriously and will, as always, provide all possible assistance and support to local law enforcement, as well as to assess the issues for further University action," an AB press release stated Friday.
"AB expects its students to behave in an ethical manner, abide by campus policies, and adhere to state and federal laws. AB's top priority is always the safety and well-being of our students and campus family."
The release states school officials have been informed of two reported sexual assault incidents and one reported sexual harrassment incident. The release says the school is cooperating with law enfocement in the investigations. Philippi Police Chief Jeff Walters has announced that police have suspects in the sexual assault investigations.
School officials have also been made aware of an alleged aggravated assault involving a Philippi police officer, who suffered minor burns after being hit with a firework, Walters said.
In a second release Friday, school officials said three AB students have tested positive for COVID-19 and are quarantining in a designated facility on the campus.
The release states these are the first cases at AB since the new school year began Aug. 10, and that the school is working with the Barbour County Health Department to conduct contact tracing.
"Alderson Broaddus continues to urge our faculty, staff, and students to strictly adhere to the University guidelines put in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19 on our campus, including wearing face coverings and maintaining at least six feet of distance from people at all times," the release states. "We have also asked our campus community to adhere to the following guidelines:"
"Monitor your health and notify someone on campus and/or seek medical attention if you have symptoms.
"Keep at least 6 feet of social distance between yourself and others (both on and off campus).
"Wear face coverings (masks or shields) when inside any University facility except while inside your assigned residence room, while alone inside your office, or while eating in the dining room or other designated areas.
"Wear face coverings (masks or shields) outdoors whenever it is not feasible to maintain physical distancing of 6 feet or more.
"Agree not to host any off-campus guests.
"Agree not to host or attend in-person social gatherings, particularly when social distancing is not possible.
"Limit personal travel and remain in the Philippi area as much as possible; when traveling, comply with all local, state, national, and University travel guidance."