Off-campus vandalism

Dear Temple students and colleagues,

Over the weekend, there were multiple incidents of vandalism at an off-campus row home that houses several Temple student members of AEPi, a national Jewish fraternity. This is the same property that endured other acts of vandalism and trespass during the spring and summer.

Vandalism and harassment are not viable forms of protest. Criminal behavior will not be tolerated, and we cannot allow it to be normalized on our campuses or within our community.

The Philadelphia Police Department (PPD) and Temple University Police (TUPD) responded to the incidents from the weekend and immediately initiated a criminal investigation. PPD is the lead investigative agency and TUPD is actively assisting to gather investigatory leads and identify a person of interest from video footage in this ongoing investigation. TUPD will continue their increased patrols and presence within the patrol zone at this location and others.

As law enforcement pursues its criminal investigation, the university will also launch its own thorough investigation. Any student found to be involved will face strict disciplinary action under the Student Conduct Code, up to and including expulsion. The Division of Student Affairs has already reached out to support the students affected by these unacceptable acts.

While incidents like this are deeply unsettling, they will not impact the collective resolve of our community to support Jewish life at Temple University and to respond decisively to antisemitism. Anyone in need of support is encouraged to utilize these resources, which have been identified by Temple's Office of Institutional Diversity, Equity, Advocacy and Leadership (IDEAL).

In closing, let me remind you that Temple has a zero tolerance policy for acts of hatred, incitement to violence, threats, harassment and discrimination against any individual or group.

It is imperative that every member of the Temple community feels safe and welcome to live, learn and work here. We will never waver from our commitment to providing an inclusive environment for all our students, faculty and staff.

Sincerely,

John Fry
President