CU Boulder Student Arrested for January Campus Sexual Assault

UPDATE: A 22-year-old student at the University of Colorado Boulder has been arrested for a sexual assault that occurred on campus in January 2023. Authorities confirmed the arrest of Rylan Whitworth on Friday, marking a significant development in this ongoing investigation.

According to police, the incident took place after Whitworth and the victim met on Tinder in the fall. They encountered each other at a bar in Boulder and later went back to the woman’s residence on campus. The victim reported that after initial consensual kissing, she told Whitworth, “I don’t want to,” and began to cry as he forcibly engaged in sexual acts against her will, as detailed in the affidavit.

Whitworth, who remains a student at CU Boulder, has been released from custody after posting a $100,000 surety bond. He is scheduled for a hearing on advisement at 1:30 p.m. on December 1, 2023, at the Boulder County Jail. This urgent update has raised concerns among students and faculty regarding safety on campus.

In a troubling twist, DNA evidence from the January incident matched samples collected in a separate sexual assault case in Broomfield, where a woman reported feeling drugged and uncertain of whether she had been assaulted. Police were unable to establish that a crime had occurred in that instance, leading to the case being inactivated.

University officials, including spokesperson Nicole Mueksch, are emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and the need for a supportive environment for all students. The campus community is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.

This case is drawing heightened attention as the university works to address safety and support for victims. As developments unfold, students and community members are encouraged to stay informed and engaged.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story progresses.