Purdue police investigating vandalism as hate crime

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Purdue University police are investigating a possible hate crime that occurred on campus at approximately 9:15 a.m. Tuesday (April 23).

A placard left by protesters Monday (April 22) as part of a display in front of Hovde Hall was defaced with a racial slur and a stick figure drawing of a body hanging from a tree.

Police are investigating the incident as a hate crime since property was altered or destroyed and the conduct was apparently motivated by bias.

Dean of Students Danita Brown said her office also is investigating the action as a violation of the student code of conduct.

"If a student is involved, he or she will go through the university disciplinary process and could face expulsion if found responsible," Brown said.

President Mitch Daniels said, "Bigotry and hate are neither welcomed nor tolerated at Purdue University. We welcome those who speak freely, in the open, and with respect for each individual. Without free discourse, we cannot fulfill our mission. There is no place at Purdue for those who act from hatred. If you recognize yourself in this last sentence, you are not welcome at Purdue."

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Purdue Police Department at 765-494-8221 or its anonymous tip line at 765-496-3784. 

Writer: Chris Sigurdson, 765-496-2644, sig@purdue.edu 

Sources: Danita Brown, 765-494-1239, dmbrown@purdue.edu