UCSC students demand safety after peeping cases
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, Calif. (KION-TV) -- Students at UC Santa Cruz are expressing frustration and concern after a series of disturbing incidents in campus dorms, where someone has reportedly been sneaking into communal bathrooms to secretly record students and steal their belongings.
“Once I read the email, what the incident actually was, I was like, this is not okay.” Jordi Sanchez said.
According to students, these invasions of privacy have been happening since January, with the most recent case reported on May 31.
Despite ongoing concerns, the university has not yet confirmed whether the latest incident is connected to earlier reports.
“This has been happening for a really long time. I feel like they definitely need to get on it, especially things in the dorm.” Nyla Davis said.
Students report that multiple dorms have been affected by the issue.
“It’s an awful thing, you know, like it's infuriating that they like, haven't done anything.” Nyla Davis said.
Many students are now calling for stronger security measures to prevent future violations of privacy.
“Cameras in front of the, like, the entrance area. So at least you know who is coming in and out of the dorm.” Shuhaonu said.
“Implementing more security cameras and better security.” Nyla Davis said.
Students say that knowing who is entering and exiting dorm buildings could help catch the person responsible if another incident occurs.
“Especially helping, like seeing people run out because, like, in the showers and like in the bathrooms and stuff, like then being able to touch the guy because they don't know what he looks like.” Nyla Davis said.
Some are pointing to inconsistent security across dorm buildings as a contributing factor.
“This building John Lewis is different because you have like these keys like the metal ones, but with, like Crusty I think. And like other ones, you use your ID and that one, like, I think it's really not the best security.” Nyla Davis said.
Others say that communication from the school, while appreciated, isn't enough on its own.
“The school does is, like, send out an email, which is ever really any incident which I feel like is, is helpful because it keeps us updated.” Max Carswell said.
In a statement, UC Santa Cruz spokesperson Scott Hernandez-Jason acknowledged the seriousness of the situation, and says in a quote,
“We recognize the serious nature of these concerns and are committed to taking proactive steps to support our students while also addressing the structural challenges posed by some of our older facilities with community restrooms. We have been in communication with our Title IX Office and are working to implement timely, thoughtful, and student-centered actions. While this is not an issue unique to UC Santa Cruz and will not be resolved overnight, we are prioritizing both immediate interventions and long-term strategies (including facilities upgrades) to enhance safety and security in our residential communities.”
As of now, the most recent suspect fled the scene, and authorities say they are actively following up on all leads.
