PUPD officer on leave of absence following death threats

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — A Purdue University police officer is on leave until further notice, police Chief John Cox said.

The officer responded to a call on Friday (Feb. 4) after a bystander reported a suspected assault on a woman taking place. Cox initiated the leave of absence after the officer and department received death threats. PUPD is investigating the threats. 

An internal investigation is taking place into the Feb. 4 incident, and upon completion, the Indiana State Police will immediately commence its own independent review. Purdue President Mitch Daniels issued this statement on Thursday. Cox had also issued a statement.