El Paso Police report increase in sexual assault cases connected to online dating sites

Sexual assault cases in El Paso have increased over the past year, with police connecting the issue to online dating sites and apps.

According to the EL Paso Police Department, an 11% increase of reported sexual assaults has occurred citywide and is asking for the public to be more cautious when using online dating sites or apps to meet future acquaintances.

Detectives say this awareness for caution stems from an increased number of sexual assaults reported from such casual encounters.

Police are asking anyone interested in meeting someone from these sites or apps to first be aware of the risks involved with meeting someone online. As such, it is important to approach the situation with caution and skepticism. Furthermore, it is important to get as much information about the person and verify who they are before actually meeting.

Crimes Against Persons Detective Erik Messer recommends these guidelines when meeting someone online:

1. Meet the other person at a pre-planned location.
2. Tell Family members or friends where you are going and the person you are meeting, and making this person aware that others know of the meeting.
3. Take your own vehicle or arrange some means of transportation other than with the person you’re meeting.

Detectives are offering these guidelines in hopes that sexual assault cases due to online meetings will decrease. More importantly, Police believe the public should be aware this problem has been increasing in the city and urge caution among those using such sites.