Timely warning prompts police investigations, University sanctions may follow

MSU has received multiple reports of alleged drugging incidents, prompting the distribution of a timely warning message to the campus community on March 6. This alert referred to incidents that occurred at social gatherings in residence halls and fraternity and sorority life events.

MSU issued the warning in compliance with the 1990 Clery Act. This federal act requires universities to notify their communities about ongoing safety threats to campuses, according to the University Police Department (UPD) Deputy Chief Adam Pankratz. 

“Timely warnings inform the campus community what’s going on and, importantly, provide information for how to keep themselves safe,” he said. According to the Clery Act, it is up to universities to decide what constitutes an ongoing threat and when to send out a warning.

UPD is currently investigating the incidents mentioned in the warning. “MSU takes all reports of criminal activity seriously, especially those that pose a threat to student health and safety,” Pankratz said.

According to Pankratz, investigating cases of suspected drugging presents challenges for the UPD. “First, drugging incidents can happen very quickly,” he said. “Leaving a drink unattended for even a minute or two could be enough time for someone to slip something into it.”

In addition, Pankratz said that encouraging victims to come forward is another major obstacle. “When alcohol is involved, it may lead to doubt about circumstances and events. We encourage people to call 911 immediately if they suspect their drink has been tampered with and to seek medical attention,” he said.

“Anyone who has witnessed suspicious behavior should contact [UPD,]” he said.

Once UPD finishes its investigation, the University has a separate process for handling these situations. “We do a different level of investigation after what [UPD] has done, but right now we are waiting to see the results of their work,” said MSU Dean of Students Matthew Caires.

While the allegations are under investigation, the University places any groups involved — such as fraternities — on interim restrictions, according to Caires. 

“Typically, we would notify the group that was alleged and schedule a meeting with them,” said Assistant Dean of Students Amber King. “We collect information and ask questions and make the determination, did they break the student code of conduct?”

According to King, the organizations involved remain cooperative. “All of the fraternities agreed that they were not going to throw events [the weekend after the warning was sent out] because they were respecting the investigation process,” she said.

Upon the conclusion of the investigation, the University can’t close a fraternity, but they can revoke their registration if the behavior warrants such a reaction, Caires said. King clarified, however, that this is not the first step. 

“We focus on education. If something went wrong, there has to be a hole there that we can fill to help them fix it,” she said.

As the investigation continues, University and UPD officials have reiterated their commitment to student safety. “Looking out for one another and reporting suspicious activity can play a crucial role in preventing harmful situations,” Pankratz said.

The University shared several safety recommendations, including keeping drinks in sight, being cautious when accepting drinks from others and staying with friends. 

MSU also advised people to watch out for one another and call 911 immediately and seek medical attention if drink tampering is suspected, as stated in the March 6 timely warning message. 

“Look out for each other, and if you are drinking alcohol, there is always a potential danger no matter where you are,” Caires said.

UPD stressed that the responsibility always lies with the perpetrators, not the victims. “It’s important to remember that survivors of crimes are never to blame,” Pankratz said.

Students seeking resources on campus have options, such as Campus Civil Rights (CCR). CCR provides resources for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and discrimination, according to its website. “CCR also helps with academic support and safety options to keep anyone impacted safe and successful,” Pankratz said.

Additionally, Counseling and Psychological Services offers assistance to those affected by traumatic events. To access these resources, visit https://www.montana.edu/counseling/index.html. 

Students can report drugging and assault incidents anonymously through the Silent Witness Program, available via the SafeCats app or by emailing silentwitness@montana.edu.