LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky Police Department (UKPD) is ramping up safety measures following rising concerns over crime near the North Campus. In response to a recent shooting incident, UKPD will increase patrols and install new lighting to enhance security for students and residents.
The increased police presence will be noticeable from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. This decision comes after a shooting occurred early Sunday morning at a Raising Cane’s Chicken restaurant, located just hundreds of feet from campus. Officers responded to reports of gunfire near the intersection of Winslow and S. Upper Street at 1 a.m., prompting a UK Alert that initially lacked specific location details.
Chief Joe Monroe stated that the shooting was a pivotal moment, highlighting the need for a more proactive approach to campus safety. “This incident really brought it home to us because those shots hit close to where our students study and hang out late at night,” Monroe explained.
In addition to increased patrols, UKPD plans to install large flood lights along Winslow Street and throughout the Limestone Street corridor. The department aims to limit access to Cornerstone Garage and Good Samaritan Hospital Garage to permit holders only, addressing past issues related to criminal activities stemming from non-student patrons using these facilities at night.
Students have expressed mixed feelings about the increased police presence. Freshmen Cadence Dupin and Deanna Hussein noted that while they generally feel safe on campus, they welcome additional officers. “It makes me feel safe and better when they’re around,” Dupin remarked, acknowledging the potential for alarm among some students about the heightened visibility of law enforcement.
Moreover, UK is conducting a lighting study to address dark areas on campus, recognizing the growing need for better illumination as nights grow longer. “Yeah, it can get dark at night, very dark, and now that it’s getting dark early, that’s probably going to be really good,” Dupin said, while Hussein emphasized the importance of not walking alone at night.
UKPD is also collaborating with the Lexington Police Department to evaluate ongoing safety measures. “We’ll continue to evaluate and adjust accordingly. This is not going to be tolerated,” Monroe stated, reinforcing the commitment to maintaining a secure environment on campus.
Students are encouraged to report any suspicious activity using the LiveSafe app or by calling emergency services. Furthermore, the university has enlisted the services of Allied Universal, a campus security company, to enhance protective efforts.
