Incident at Cal Poly Humboldt: An Overview
On December 4, 2025, at around 6:05 AM, the University Police Department (UPD) was alerted about a disturbing incident involving an unknown man. Reports indicated he had exposed himself and engaged in inappropriate behavior in front of two female students near the forest on Granite Avenue Extension on campus.
When officers arrived, the suspect had already fled the scene. While investigating, they discovered that this individual had also been spotted peering into several residence hall windows.
Authorities identified a person of interest: 24-year-old Victor Phetsomphou, not a student at Cal Poly Humboldt. On December 11, the UPD, alongside Arcata Police, executed a search and arrest warrant at Phetsomphou’s home in Arcata. They collected various items for evidence and took him into custody without any resistance.
Phetsomphou now faces charges, including indecent exposure and other related offenses. His bail has been set at $85,000.
As investigations continue, it shines a light on the importance of campus safety. Recent surveys reveal that students are increasingly concerned about their safety in educational environments. A report from the National Center for Education Statistics indicates that over 20% of college students have expressed fears about their personal safety on campuses.
Experts suggest that enhancing campus security and fostering open communication between students and law enforcement can help alleviate these fears. By building a trusting relationship, students may feel more empowered to report suspicious activities.
If you have any information on the incident, you are encouraged to reach out to the University Police Department at (707) 826-5555.
