Police Activity At GSW Campus Results In Arrest, All Clear

Hugo van Dijk

4 min read

Post on May 15, 2025

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Details of the Police Activity at GSW

On Tuesday, October 24, 2023, at approximately 1:45 PM, GSW police responded to a report of a suspicious individual near the Smith Hall dormitory. The initial report described the suspect as a male, approximately six feet tall, wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt. The nature of the reported suspicious activity remains under investigation; however, no immediate threat to the campus community was evident.

• Time of incident: 1:45 PM, Tuesday, October 24, 2023
• Location on campus: Near Smith Hall dormitory. The specific location is being withheld to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation.
• Type of police response: GSW University Police, along with Americus Police Department for support.
• Visible police presence: Multiple patrol cars and several officers on foot were visible in the area surrounding Smith Hall.

The Arrest and Subsequent Investigation

Following a brief search of the area, GSW police apprehended a suspect matching the description provided in the initial report. The suspect was taken into custody without incident. The investigation is ongoing, but preliminary reports suggest potential charges related to trespassing and disorderly conduct. Further details will be released as they become available from the investigating authorities.

• Suspect's identity: The suspect's name is being withheld pending formal charges.
• Charges filed: Preliminary charges include trespassing and disorderly conduct. Further charges are possible pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation.
• Status of the ongoing investigation: The Americus Police Department and GSW Police are jointly investigating the incident.

GSW Campus Response and Communication

Georgia Southwestern State University utilized multiple communication channels to inform students, faculty, and staff of the police activity and subsequent arrest. The university issued timely alerts via email, text message (through the university's emergency notification system), and social media (primarily through the official GSW Facebook and Twitter accounts).

• Methods used to inform the campus community: Email, text message alerts, social media updates (Facebook and Twitter).
• Timeliness of communication: Initial alerts were sent within 15 minutes of the suspect's apprehension. Follow-up messages provided updates as the situation evolved.
• Clarity of the messages: The messages clearly communicated the nature of the incident, the location, the response from GSW Police, and the all-clear notification once the suspect was apprehended.
• Campus response and reaction: The campus community reacted calmly and followed instructions provided in the alerts, demonstrating a high level of preparedness.

Ensuring Future Campus Safety at GSW

Following this incident, GSW is reviewing existing security protocols and exploring potential improvements to enhance campus safety. This includes a comprehensive review of the university's emergency notification system, potential upgrades to security cameras and lighting in high-traffic areas, and additional training for campus security personnel. While a heightened police presence was maintained for a short period after the incident, GSW intends to maintain a robust and visible security presence throughout the campus going forward.

• Review of existing security protocols: A comprehensive review is underway to identify areas for improvement.
• Potential upgrades to security systems or training: Upgrades to security cameras and lighting are being considered, along with enhanced training for campus security and emergency response teams.
• Increased police presence (temporary or permanent): While the increased police presence was temporary immediately following the event, GSW is committed to maintaining a strong security presence on campus.

Conclusion

This incident at the GSW campus highlights the importance of swift and effective communication during emergencies. While a temporary disruption occurred, the quick response from GSW police and the subsequent arrest ensured the safety of the campus community. Normal operations have resumed, and GSW remains committed to providing a safe and secure learning environment.

Call to Action: For up-to-date information regarding campus safety and security at Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW), please regularly check the official GSW website and social media channels. Stay informed about GSW campus safety and security measures. Remember to report any suspicious activity immediately to campus security by calling 229-931-2000.