URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — The Urbana Police Department reported an increase in sexual assaults following first-time meetups through dating apps.

The police department informed the community about this concerning discovery through a Facebook post, urging residents to create a safety plan for personal protection. Essential points include:

• Meeting in a public place
• Telling someone where you’re going
• Arranging your own transportation

“Consent should be explicit, shared, and continuous. It can be revoked at any moment. Nobody is entitled to physical access to another, regardless of circumstances,” the police department emphasized. “This isn’t about instilling fear. It’s about ensuring safety, empowerment, and raising awareness. It’s something every individual deserves.”

To deter future incidents, the police department advised community members to consider engaging with Rape Advocacy, Counseling, & Education Services (RACES). RACES, based in Champaign-Urbana, is a nonprofit organization that assists sexual assault survivors, provides free prevention education, and offers support to those affected by sexual violence. Additional resources can be accessed on their website or Facebook page.