Doane University Responds to Swatting Call
Authorities are looking into a swatting call that disrupted Doane University on Tuesday, the second day of the fall semester. At 8:45 a.m., the university received a report about a possible armed individual in the restroom of the Communications Building.
In swift action, campus security initiated a lockout. This meant everyone inside had to stay in secured buildings for safety. Within minutes, local police and the Saline County Sheriff’s Office responded with 15 officers. By 9:41 a.m., they declared the situation safe, concluding it was a false alarm meant to provoke an emergency response.
Sheriff Moore confirmed there was no ongoing threat to the campus or surrounding community. “We’re thankful for the quick actions of the Crete Police Department and the cooperation of everyone on campus,” said Russ Hewitt, the university’s public safety director.
A key element in the university’s response was their mobile ID system. This technology allows buildings to be locked down quickly, enhancing safety measures.
The incident raises concerns about swatting. This dangerous practice involves making false reports to elicit a large law enforcement response. Experts point out that swatting can have serious consequences, including diverting resources from real emergencies.
According to recent statistics, swatting incidents have increased. The FBI reported a significant uptick in these cases over recent years, with many targeting schools and colleges.
In historical context, swatting first became a concern about a decade ago, often linked to online gaming disputes. As technology evolves, so do the methods used in these false reports, making it vital for institutions to have robust safety protocols.
Doane University plans to review its response alongside local law enforcement to strengthen safety measures further.
Staying informed is crucial, and you can keep up with updates by visiting local news sources for the latest.
For more details about campus safety and responses to similar incidents, you can read about related efforts in local community reports.
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