Increased Security Measures Introduced at the University of Kentucky Following Shootings

Lexington – The University of Kentucky Police Department (UKPD) has announced new security measures to address growing safety concerns on campus due to recent gun violence in surrounding areas. Police Chief Joe Monroe outlined the improvements during a press conference on Friday, emphasizing the university’s commitment to student safety.

Following multiple reported shootings near the campus, especially on the north side, where residence halls and main campus facilities are located, the university is taking proactive measures. Although no incidents have occurred directly on campus, Monroe stated, “the safety of our students and employees is our top priority.”

Among the announced changes are an increase in police patrols and enhanced lighting around campus. Starting this weekend, UKPD will deploy additional officers to patrol on foot, bike, and in vehicles, focusing on North Campus from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Temporary floodlights will also be installed on Winslow Street, with plans to assess locations for permanent lighting, emergency call towers, and surveillance cameras.

In response to the recent violence, UKPD is restricting access to parking garages and lots on campus and at UK hospitals during overnight hours. Specifically, the Cornerstone garage and Good Samaritan Hospital garage, which were previously open to the public at night and on weekends, will now have limited access.

Additionally, the university is partnering with Allied Universal, a professional campus security group, to strengthen safety protocols, particularly within residence halls. “We’ll continue to evaluate our responses, and we’ll adjust accordingly,” Monroe stated. “This is not going to be tolerated around our campus or on our campus, so we’re taking a very aggressive approach to make sure that we keep our campus safe.”

Over the past year, the UKPD has expanded its force by adding approximately a dozen new officers, facilitating the heightened police presence. The Lexington Police Department is also closely collaborating with UKPD to enhance safety in the region, especially around Limestone Street, which has been a focal point of concern for law enforcement in the past 12 to 18 months.

These efforts come in light of specific incidents, including a shooting near the Raising Canes on South Upper Street early Sunday morning, prompting alerts for students to avoid the area, and another shooting reported on Winslow Street and South Limestone in September.

The comprehensive security strategy put forth by UKPD reflects a dedicated approach to safeguarding the university community both on and off campus, ensuring that students can focus on their education without compromising their safety.