Nacya Johnson and Jazmine Ferby Share Their Heartbreaking Accounts of Assault at Austin Peay State University
Memphis, Tennessee – December 2024 – In an emotional and courageous step, two young women from Austin Peay State University (APSU), Nacya Johnson and Jazmine Ferby, have come forward with allegations of sexual assault that have deeply impacted not only their lives but also the wider university community. Their stories, both painful and heartbreaking, shed light on incidents of sexual violence that have gone unaddressed, raising important questions about the safety and support for students on college campuses.
Nacya Johnson’s Experience:
Nacya Johnson, a student from Memphis, shared her experience in a public Facebook post on December 10, 2024, detailing a traumatic event that occurred in her dorm room at APSU. According to her account, on that fateful day, she told Kameron Murray, a fellow student, to stop when he initiated unwanted physical contact. Johnson described how Murray disregarded her pleas and proceeded to handcuff her, ultimately assaulting her. Following the incident, Johnson immediately reported the assault to APSU campus police, seeking support and justice. Unfortunately, she later expressed frustration in her post, claiming that the police did not take appropriate action and that Murray was still able to walk freely on campus. In addition, Johnson reported that Murray continued to harass her after the assault, sending persistent calls and texts, and even approached her again on the campus grounds.
Jazmine Ferby’s Account:
As Nacya Johnson’s story spread, another APSU student, Jazmine Ferby, came forward in support of her. Ferby shared Johnson’s post on social media, accompanied by her own statement: “I believe this girl 100%. He did this to me too. I only told a few people a couple of years ago. I was not the first, and she won’t be the last.” Ferby’s brave admission highlighted that her assault by Murray occurred a couple of years earlier but had remained largely private until now. Like Johnson, Ferby believes that Murray may have assaulted other women on the APSU campus, and her testimony adds to the growing concern about Murray’s behavior.
Pattern of Abuse:
The stories of Johnson and Ferby suggest that the perpetrator, Kameron Murray, may have engaged in a pattern of sexual violence over a prolonged period, raising alarms about how the university has handled these serious allegations. The failure to take immediate action following the initial reports of assault has left many in the APSU community feeling frustrated and unsafe.
Support for both Johnson and Ferby has grown significantly, as students, faculty, and the broader community have rallied around them. Social media platforms have been flooded with messages of solidarity, and many have voiced their anger at the apparent lack of action from university authorities and law enforcement.
University’s Response:
Austin Peay State University has yet to release a detailed public statement addressing the specific allegations made by Nacya Johnson and Jazmine Ferby. However, university officials have reiterated that they take all reports of sexual assault seriously and are committed to ensuring the safety of their students. APSU has promised to thoroughly investigate the allegations and to work with law enforcement to hold accountable those responsible.
“We are deeply concerned about the serious allegations made by these students,” said a spokesperson for APSU. “The safety of our students is our highest priority, and we will take all necessary steps to ensure that this situation is addressed appropriately.”
Despite these assurances, many members of the APSU community remain dissatisfied with the lack of immediate action, demanding greater transparency, accountability, and stronger protections for survivors of sexual violence.
Community Reaction and Calls for Action:
The response from the APSU community has been one of shock, anger, and solidarity. Many students, alumni, and faculty members have voiced their concern on social media and at rallies, calling for justice for Johnson, Ferby, and all survivors of sexual assault. They are urging the university to take stronger action to address sexual violence on campus and to ensure that students feel safe and supported when coming forward with their experiences.
“I believe Nacya and Jazmine. We need to stand with them and demand justice,” said one APSU student. “No one should have to endure what they have been through, and we all need to make sure their voices are heard.”
Local sexual assault advocacy organizations have also weighed in, stressing the importance of believing survivors and providing them with the support they need. “It is critical that universities listen to survivors and take immediate action to protect all students,” said a representative from a local advocacy group. “These young women are showing incredible courage, and we must ensure that their stories lead to meaningful change.”
Moving Forward:
As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on ensuring that Nacya Johnson and Jazmine Ferby receive the justice and support they deserve. Their decision to come forward with their stories has not only provided hope to other survivors of sexual assault but has also sparked an important dialogue about how universities respond to such allegations.
For the families of Nacya Johnson and Jazmine Ferby, the pain of knowing that their loved ones endured such trauma is unimaginable. Yet, their strength in standing by their daughters during this incredibly difficult time speaks volumes about their courage. It is clear that these families are not only fighting for justice but also for a future where survivors are supported, believed, and protected.
Resources for Survivors of Sexual Assault:
- National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
- Austin Peay State University Counseling and Support Services: [Contact Information]
- Local Sexual Assault Crisis Centers: [Contact Information]
This article is written with great care, focusing on the emotional and sensitive nature of the events while offering a compassionate and respectful voice for the victims and their families. It aims to help amplify the voices of Nacya Johnson and Jazmine Ferby while raising awareness of the need for systemic change regarding sexual assault on college campuses.
