Murray State offers safety advice to students after recent reports of sexual assault on campus.
According to the Murray State University Crime and Fire Log, two separate incidents of rape were reported in January. The Murray State University Police Department (MSUPD) provided an overview of the resources they provide as well as general safety advice.
Three resources available to students are the LiveSafe App, Racer Patrol Escort Service and Emergency Call Boxes.
According to the MSUPD, the LiveSafe App provides an alternative method of communication with officers beyond traditional phone calls. Through the free app, users can report incidents, request an escort from Racer Patrol and utilize the SafeWalk feature to allow a friend to track your location and contact the MSUPD via text, call, photos or videos. More details can be found by visiting the Murray State Crime Prevention and Community Relations Programs.
Emergency Call Boxes can be found in various locations on campus, a comprehensive list of which can be found by visiting the “Call Boxes” section of the University website. Call boxes are connected to the 911 Dispatch Center, so a dispatcher will be able to locate the exact location of the caller when activated.
MSUPD also provides a list of general safety tips to keep students safe on campus. First, MSUPD recommends staying aware of your surroundings by avoiding distractions (like looking at a cell phone) while walking alone or in low traffic areas and remembering to lock your residence hall door.
Additionally, it is also important to utilize the buddy system, walking with a friend whenever possible and checking in on friends to make sure they reach their destination safely. When meeting new people, be sure to meet in a public space and inform friends of your plans.
Lastly, set boundaries and speak up to avoid dangerous or uncomfortable situations. Always drink responsibly–know when to stop and never accept drinks from people you do not know or trust.
Save emergency contacts, such as the phone number for MSUPD: (270) 809-2222.
“The Murray State Police Department is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our campus community. Our department offers a range of services to help create a secure environment where students, faculty and staff can live and learn,” said Ryan Orr, chief of police.
The Women’s Center, located in Suite C102 of the Oakley Applied Science Building, also provides an array of student resources to help combat sexual assault.
“During the Fall 2024 semester, we purchased 700 NightCap drink covers and partnered with Panhellenic to distribute them to students across campus,” said Director Abigail Cox. “We offer a free online training that addresses healthy relationships, bystander intervention and interpersonal violence prevention to any campus community members who would like to take the training. 634 campus members have completed the training this year.”
The Women’s Center also has a monthly newsletter with links to campus resources and the campus crime log.
“In our office, we have information about off-campus resources such as the Merryman House and Lotus and we help connect students to these resources when appropriate,” Cox said.
More information about the center and its resources can be found in the “Women’s Center” section of the University website.
Finally, students in need of counselling services can visit the Counseling Center or visit their website to find a comprehensive list of services available or to contact a counselor.
“The Counseling Center offers free, confidential counseling services for students who are struggling with their mental health or dealing with a traumatic experience. We offer ongoing counseling sessions in person or via Zoom, and we offer same-day walk-in sessions 9-2 Monday through Friday in C104 Oakley Applied Science,” said Angie Trzepacz, director and licensed psychologist.
