Department of Public Safety Investigating Two Off-Campus Bias Incidents

The Department of Public Safety (DPS) is actively investigating two separate off-campus bias incidents reported to DPS on Sunday, May 16.

The first occurred on Saturday, May 15, at approximately 6:25 p.m., near the corner of Westcott and Hawthorn Avenue. A group of students reported a vehicle driving by with the occupants shouting language that was derogatory and offensive to the LGBTQ community.

On the same day, at approximately 9:25 p.m., another student reported as they were walking down University Avenue, towards Madison Street, a vehicle drove by that also had the occupants shouting language that was derogatory and offensive to the LGBTQ community.

In both incidents, the vehicle driving by is described as a dark colored SUV. No further information was provided about the make, model or license plate number.

“We, along with the community, are frustrated by these repeat incidents,” says Chief Bobby Maldonado. “We implore our community – if you experience a bias incident, please report it immediately as it enhances our chance of identifying those responsible.”

Since the incident was reported, the following actions have been taken:

  • DPS officers met with the impacted individual to gather as much information as possible;
  • DPS officers offered information about resources and services available to support the impacted individual;
  • Camera footage from the area is being reviewed to identify a possible vehicle involved in the incident.

“We ask that anyone with additional information about these incidents, to please come forward. Like I have shared previously, the more information that the community can share with us, the better. Even the smallest of details can help us. It could be a partial license plate number or the color of the vehicle. No detail is too small when it comes to our investigative work,” added Maldonado.

If you have information about this case or others, please call DPS at 315.443.2224. You can even anonymously report non-emergency information to DPS through the Silent Witness tool or the Rave Guardian mobile app.

The University recognizes how these incidents can affect individuals and communities. If you or someone you know has been affected by a bias incident, there are resources available to you: