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MRU students on alert after reports of naked man stalking campus

There have been four reports to campus security this semester, including two instances of a person peering into residence windows

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Students at Mount Royal University are raising concerns after multiple reports of a naked man following women around the campus.

According to MRU, there have been four such reports to campus security this semester, including two in September regarding a person peering into residence windows, and two in October about a naked man wandering on campus.

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“Mount Royal University takes these reports seriously and understands student concerns about safety on campus,” says a statement from a university spokesperson.

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The school has increased patrols in areas around the East and West Residences. MRU encourages students to use the SafeWalk Program if they’re feeling unsafe, which is available 24/7 for students to be escorted to their car or bus stop, or to and from buildings on campus.

According to the statement, MRU is working with police on their investigation into the reports, and is providing support and resources to residence students and staff. Anyone who sees concerning behaviour is asked to call Calgary police and campus security.

“The safety and security of students, employees and the Mount Royal community is a top priority,” says the spokesperson.

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The two reported sightings of the naked man this month occurred Oct. 14 and 21, according to MRU.

Posts from concerned students about the naked man on an anonymous school Instagram account, MRU Chatter, line up with those reports.

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A post from last Friday says that a woman was chased by the man to her home, and cautions other women to be careful. Another says the naked man ruined their night, adding that women living on campus are genuinely frightened for their safety.

“Everyone needs to close their blinds, lock their doors and make sure to not walk alone around the West Residence,” says one post.

An earlier post on Oct. 14 warns other students that a naked man was spotted on campus.

MRU student Jaydon Braybrook said it seems like the man’s actions have escalated from peeking in windows to approaching and chasing women on campus, which is causing concern among students.

“Who knows if he starts grabbing girls or has a car nearby, so it’s become a big safety concern for everyone here,” said Braybrook.

Mount Royal University has beefed up security after reports of a naked man roaming the campus.
Mount Royal University has beefed up security after reports of a naked man roaming the campus. Darren Makowichuk/Postmedia

Students received an email this week from MRU about the incidents, said Braybrook, who lives on campus.

“A lot of people are worried,” he added. “They’re scared they’re going to run into him. I hope they can find this guy.”

The administrator for the MRU Chatter account said a number of reports have been received about the naked man roaming campus and wanted to bring people’s attention to it.

“At this point, students are afraid and they’re frustrated,” the anonymous administrator said.

The person said students are hoping for an end to the man’s appearances on campus so they can stop worrying when they leave their homes.

Calgary police confirmed in a statement to Postmedia that officers are investigating the reports.

sbabych@postmedia.com
Twitter: @BabychStephanie

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