UNA Leaders Host Security Forum After Reported Rape on Campus

After the recent reported rape on the University of North Alabama campus security efforts came under scrutiny again.

This is the third reported rape the 2012-2013 academic school year.

Campus staff are trying to ease concerns for students and parents.

During a safety and security forum, dozens of people asked touch questions to the campus police chief and residence hall staff.

Many students voiced concerns about the policies and procedures for guests on campus.  University leaders vowed to review their protocols.

A packed cafeteria greeted the University of North Alabama police chief and campus staff for a safety forum.

From the beginning, leaders told people in the crowd, this time was to listen to their concerns, and the concerns started flowing right away.

Kelsey Bell lives in the residence halls and was front and center for the discussion.

“It`s kinda sad when you can`t feel safe at school,” said Bell who is a sophomore.  “UNA is a great school, it is, but any type of added security would be great, like security cameras, maybe more emergency help.”

The fear of campus security has made waves through entire families.

Bell’s father made the drive from Nashville, just to hear how campus staff planned to protect his child and other kids on campus.

“I was concerned for my daughter and concerned for other girls and kids that go to school here,” said Chris Bell.  Parents make a big investment in your child`s education and we expect them to be safe and taken care of.”

One issue brought up in the forum:  guests to the residence halls do not have to check in.  According to school leaders, guests must be escorted at all times by a friend.  However students say, this doesn’t always happen.

According to police, this is one specific issue they plan to address.