VPD launches ‘Don’t Be That Guy’ campaign

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Editor’s note: Some photos in this article contain images and phrases that may disturb some readers

VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – Sex without consent is sexual assault.

That’s the message the VPD is trying to get out with its “Don’t Be That Guy” campaign, aimed at reducing the incidents of sexual violence.

A series of posters, some with shocking language, will be placed in clubs and bars for the rest of July and through August; police say they’re aimed at men between the ages of 18 and 25.

Wendy Potter works at a Vancouver hospital and she sees 300 assault victims every year.  “We had a situation where a woman was going to get a ride home with her friend, but her friend went to the bathroom.  While her friend was in the bathroom, the male assailant ushered her out of the bar and took her to his home where he sexually assaulted her while she was in and out of consciousness for most of the night.”

The campaign is being re-launched because Vancouver Police say there are more people downtown during the summer.

“Just trying to get bystanders involved and for people to be more aware of how often this is actually happening in our city.  It is something that unfortunately, I think,  is becoming an epidemic.  It’s [the numbers] not going down unfortunately,” Potter adds.

Investigators with the VPD’s Sex Crimes and Child Abuse Unit will also give front-line bar staff training to help them spot people who may be vulnerable because of how much they’ve had to drink or drugs they may have taken.

There will also be specially-trained officers in the entertainment district, keeping an eye out for predatory men who may be targeting vulnerable women.

Don't Be That Guy poster

Don't Be That Guy poster Don't Be That Guy poster

Don't Be That Guy poster Don't Be That Guy posterDon't Be That Guy poster

Don't Be That Guy poster

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