Suspect of indecent exposure at Southeast Mo. State University campus cited for sexual misconduct

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KFVS) - The suspect of an indecent exposure incident on campus at Southeast Missouri State University Tuesday afternoon has been identified.

According to a release from the university, around 3:40 p.m. on September 13, campus police observed a 2015 Dodge Charger matching the description of the vehicle involved in the indecent exposure reported on Sept. 12.

The release states the vehicle was stopped and the driver was detained for questioning.

The suspect, 35-year-old Nathan Stokes of Charleston, Mo., was issued a criminal court summons for first-degree sexual misconduct and a notice against trespassing from the University’s legal counsel.

According to a notice from campus police sent to students, the incident took place at around 4:40 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 12. A student was asked by a motorist for directions to a campus building. When the student approached the car, Stokes, the driver of the vehicle, exposed himself to the student.

They say the vehicle left campus after the incident. A vehicle matching its description was seen going south on Sprigg Street from New Madrid.

The driver was described as a man in his 40s with dark hair mixed with gray, a slender build and wearing a dirty work shirt.

The vehicle was described as a gray, 2018 or newer, Dodge Charger with tinted windows, a hood scoop and a rear spoiler. The license number and state is unknown.

Anyone with information is asked to call the university police department at (573) 651-2215.

Campus police also offered some tips for students:

• Be aware of your surroundings. Scan the area before you exit or approach your vehicle/building and while you proceed between sites.
• Have your key ready in hand to quickly access the door of your vehicle/building. Keep your cell phone handy.
• Walk with confidence and purpose and without distractions. Do not approach people and vehicles you do not know. Travel in groups, walk the lighted corridor and use safe transportation.
• Know the location of blue light emergency phones. These phones rings directly to a dispatcher with University Police.
• If strangers approach, maintain a distance and be observant; if they are in a vehicle, get the license plate number.
• Stay alert and trust your instincts. Think about and plan for ‘What if?’ situations. If you feel uneasy, leave. Go to a safe place. Contact someone who can help you such as a friend, family member, a resource at the University, or the Department of Public Safety.
• Program the Southeast Missouri State University Police number (573) 651-2911 into your cell phone. Consider contacting University Police for late night escorts across campus.
• Report suspicious persons, vehicles or activities immediately. Be prepared to describe the person as best as you can.
• In an emergency contact the Southeast Missouri State University Police at (573) 651-2911, use a blue light phone, or dial 911.

Copyright 2023 KFVS. All rights reserved.