October 14, 2016

Loyola Community,

Last night, our Campus Safety police officers arrested two non-Loyola-affiliated subjects who were harassing students outside of Mertz Hall. Our officers witnessed the incident and immediately stepped in to make the arrests. The two subjects have been charged—one with simple battery and the other with simple assault. Both have also been charged with criminal trespass. They are now in the custody of the Chicago Police Department.

The safety of all members in our community is Campus Safety’s top priority. Please know that the students involved were not injured, and we thank them for their cooperation in this case.

While our department continues to patrol on and off campus 24 hours a day, seven days a week, we do ask that you please keep the following risk-reduction tips in mind:

• Always stay alert and tuned in to your surroundings. Refrain from using headphones or talking on the phone, as this minimizes your ability to hear an approaching threat.
• Be wary of unsolicited strangers. If someone approaches you on the street, keep moving and try to avoid additional contact. If possible, cross the street or change your direction.
• If a person threatens you, follow any demands and run away as soon as it is safe to do so. Once in a safe place, immediately notify Campus Safety at 773.508.SAFE or the Chicago Police Department via 9-1-1 or 312.744.8263.
• If you see something you believe to be suspicious, immediately contact Campus Safety or the Chicago Police Department.
• Investigative follow-up will be dependent on the amount of detail a person can recall. It is important to remember as many identifying characteristics about the offender(s) as possible. This can include physical characteristics of the person, their clothing, any weapons used, direction of flight, etc.

Campus Safety recognizes that survivors are not at fault for any crime. Students who are seeking resources related to acts of violence can contact the Wellness Center at 773.508.2530 or visit the Coordinated Community Response Team website. Faculty and staff in need of resources are encouraged to utilize the University’s Employee Assistance Program.

Sincerely,

Thomas K. Murray
Director of Campus Safety and Chief of Police