Penn State And Borough Officials Commit To Preventing Future Riots
March 29, 2001
University Park, Pa. -- Penn State administrators and several State College Borough officials today committed themselves to take extensive and immediate steps to prevent future riots in the so-called Beaver Canyon area of downtown State College.
"We are absolutely united in our determination to prevent this from recurring," said Penn State President Graham Spanier. "What happened this past weekend is completely unacceptable, and we have agreed to take several steps designed to keep this from happening again."
The University has already begun the process of disciplining students involved in the most recent riot through its Office of Judicial Affairs. After the two previous riots, 38 Penn State students were charged with violating the Student Code of Conduct. 36 of those 38 students were expelled or suspended from the University, or left voluntarily rather than face charges. The University has pledged to continue its strict approach to sanctioning rioters, to increase publicity concerning its zero-tolerance policy, and to strengthen sanctions for other criminal behaviors.
State College Borough Council member Jean McManis expressed optimism that the Borough can enact ordinances and make other changes to curb the prospect of serious problems in the future. "There is a consensus that we need to prevent students from gathering in Beaver Canyon at times of potential disturbances, as well as eliminate the possibility of bottles and other debris being thrown from balconies," said McManis. "We plan to give the police greater flexibility in keeping crowds from gathering, or dispersing them if they do gather."
University administrators and Borough officials agreed to pursue several initiatives. They will meet jointly with apartment owners and landlords to discuss preventative measures such as balcony control, advance warnings about potential disturbances, and increased surveillance. There will be a strengthened police presence in the future. Students will receive clear guidance about what kinds of behaviors will be subject to police and Judicial Affairs sanctions. Those assembling in situations that could lead to a riot will receive indisputable warnings about the requirement to disperse. The Borough will consider a range of measures, including the possibility of a limited curfew. Borough officials agreed to accelerate the consideration of new ordinances. There will be increased cooperation between the State Police, the State College Police, and the Penn State Police.
"Personally, I have no tolerance for such disturbances," said Spanier. "Penn State's reputation is negatively influenced by such actions, and we can't allow a small portion of our community to engage in behaviors that reflect so poorly on this great university," he added.
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