News Service

3-16-08

ISU Police remind students of everyday safety precautions

AMES, Iowa -- The students who remain in Willow Hall over spring break have returned to their normal routines following an incident in the early morning hours of March 16, but ISU Police urge all students to be mindful of basic safety precautions.

"The events of this morning were in the context of a personal confrontation between acquaintances. Response by area law enforcement agencies and ISU staff resulted in a swift resolution of the situation," said Jerry Stewart, director of ISU's Department of Public Safety. "However, we'd like to remind students that personal safety is a shared responsibility."

ISU community members should keep the following guidelines in mind:

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Don't let strangers into your building, including anyone who may try to follow you into a residence hall. Guests should be hosted at all times.
• Lock your doors when away or sleeping.
• Identify visitors through the peephole before opening the door.
• Don't prop doors open or tamper with locks.
• Don't give your access card or key to others. Immediately report lost or stolen access cards or keys.
• Let others know your whereabouts and plans.
• A DPS safety escort is available 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. daily by calling (515) 294-4444.
• Contact ISU Police at (515) 294-4428 or 911 if you observe any suspicious activity.

Students who wish to speak with a counselor before 8 a.m. Monday are encouraged to contact the Dean of Students Office temporary hotline at (515) 294-1020. Staff members from ISU's Student Counseling Service are available to meet with any students in need. The Student Counseling Service will resume regular hours tomorrow. That number is (515) 294-5056.

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Incident timeline, Mar. 16

• 9:45 a.m.: ISU Police announce that Jawon R. Jackson, 20, of Aurora, Ill., has been arrested and charged in connection with the incident at Willow Hall
• 2:20 a.m.: Normal activity resumed in Willow Hall
• 1:58 a.m.: Police found man, who reportedly had been seen with gun, in Willow Hall
• 1:40 a.m.: ISU Alert sent to students, faculty, staff
• 1:32 a.m.: Police locate eyewitness in a Willow Hall room and obtain additional information
• 12:55 a.m: Police receive call from student, notify area law enforcement agencies and immediately respond to scene