UPDATE: A University of Colorado Boulder student has been arrested for a sexual assault that allegedly occurred on campus in January. Rylan Whitworth, 22, faces one charge of sexual assault, according to police reports released on Friday.
Authorities confirm that Whitworth, currently enrolled at CU Boulder, met the victim on Tinder in the fall. After encountering each other at a bar in Boulder, the two went to the woman’s residence. The affidavit details that after kissing, Whitworth allegedly pushed her down and forced her into sexual acts despite her clear refusal, saying “I don’t want to” and crying.
During police questioning, Whitworth claimed the encounter was consensual. However, significant evidence has emerged: DNA collected from the January incident matches Whitworth’s DNA from a separate sexual assault case in Broomfield. In that February case, a woman reported feeling drugged and uncertain if she had been assaulted, only recalling someone touching her. Police could not determine if a crime had occurred, leading to the case’s inactivation.
Whitworth, who has since posted a $100,000 surety bond, is currently out of custody. He is scheduled for a hearing on advisement at 1:30 p.m. on December 1, 2023, at the Boulder County Jail.
This arrest raises serious concerns about campus safety and the ongoing issues surrounding sexual assault. As investigations continue, the community remains on alert. Students and faculty are urged to stay informed and vigilant.
Authorities are calling for anyone with information related to the cases to come forward. As developments unfold, this story remains a priority for local law enforcement and university officials.
