The manhunt intensifies in Houston as authorities ramp up efforts to capture Eric Brown, the suspect wanted for the aggravated sexual assault and robbery of an University of Houston student on February 7. Brown, a man who authorities said held the victim at knifepoint in the UH Welcome Center Parking Garage, currently remains on the loose, prompting the Harris County District Attorney’s Office to offer up a $5,000 reward for information leading to his capture—a detail noted in a KHOU 11 report.
It was revealed that a communication error led to Brown's early release from custody just one day after the attack. Officials at the Harris County District Attorney’s Office stated that the mistake occurred when the initial paperwork did not clearly indicate Brown's involvement in both the sexual assault and robbery cases. The discrepancy in documentation led to the reviewing prosecutor declining the charges, as reported by Click2Houston. Despite this, UH Police maintain that they included the sexual assault information in their reports.
The University of Houston has also pledged to enhance security measures amid students' outcry for transparency and improved safety protocols. This pledge comes alongside heightened police patrols, security guard presence, and an expedited campus lighting project worth $18 million. "It’s expected they’ll bring out police and up security, I hope it sticks around," said Emily Nguyen, a student at UH, reflecting the sentiments of many others calling for permanent improvements, in a statement obtained by KHOU 11.
Individuals with information about Brown's whereabouts are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS (8477) or submit tips online via the organization's website. Additionally, State Rep. Jolanda Jones will host a town hall on February 21 at Emancipation Park to engage with UH leadership and hear from students. Members of the UH Student Government Association and Black Student Union are expected to attend.
