Michigan State University is asking the public for help identifying any students who took part in destructive and criminal behavior after the football victory Saturday afternoon.
“While the atmosphere on campus leading up to and during the game was full of excitement and high energy, the behavior immediately after the game in many off-campus locations and around East Lansing was abhorrent and unacceptable,” said MSU President Samuel L. Stanley Jr., M.D.
Local municipalities are reporting more than 55 fires were set in the community, many of which were documented on social media and in videos.
“While I realize those involved in the fires and vandalism do not represent the majority of Spartans, this image of how our student community celebrates after a victory is leaving many to believe otherwise,” Stanley said. “I want to be clear – students who are reported to have violated university policies, which include arson and vandalism, will go through our student conduct process and will face penalties. Off-campus behavior has on-campus consequences when individuals present a clear danger to themselves or others in these settings.”
MSU and the East Lansing Police Department are sharing information about many of the cases and actively working to identify students who took part in criminal behavior. Anyone who wants to report suspected criminal behavior, share photos/videos or report dangerous off-campus behavior by MSU students should contact ELPD Sgt. Adam Park at 517-319-6834 or the MSU Dean of Students office by phone at 517-884-0789 or by email at doso@msu.edu. Reports should include names of the individuals involved, evidence of the alleged policy violation or crime (including photos and/or videos) and location of the incident.
Students found responsible through the student conduct process may face sanctions up to dismissal from the university.
Anthony T. Williams Jr., assistant vice president and dean of students at MSU, is working with colleagues at the University of Michigan to coordinate accountability efforts. “Celebrating responsibly is a team effort, and we need everyone who attends the games and joins in game-related activities to take that responsibility seriously,” said Williams.
The MSU Department of Police and Public Safety is grateful for the partnership and collaboration with the East Lansing Fire Department, East Lansing Police Department, Ingham County Sheriff’s Office, local emergency medical services, Meridian Township Police Department and Michigan State Police. All these agencies worked together to maintain a safe environment for the game.
Additionally, the president recognized the facilities team at MSU, which worked diligently Saturday and Sunday to make sure the campus was one of the cleanest and most beautiful in the entire country.
“We are very fortunate to have such caring, detailed and excellent employees taking care of this campus,” Stanley added. “And I welcome all Spartans to join us in continuing that same level of care for our campus, each other and our community.”