Dalhousie University security learned last week that students were being secretly filmed in several areas on the Halifax school’s Studley Campus.
Mike Burns, Dalhousie’s director of security, said a student complained that they “felt the harassing behaviour was humiliating to the individuals involved.”
Dalhousie security staff sent a warning to all students after learning about the incidents. No specific details could be released about the films, Burns said.
“The scenes filmed were inappropriate and can be described as sexually suggestive,” he said. Burns said emails from students to the security staff indicate that the student body reaction is one of concern and also gratitude for informing them immediately after the discovery.
“Students are concerned with their personal security. The videos were being taken in locker rooms, private residences and public washrooms, mostly in open public areas. They want to know who it is and what’s being done to find out who’s responsible,” Burns said.
He said steps have been taken towards finding the filmer, but security is still unsure if it involves one individual or a group.
Dalhousie media relations director Charles Crosby said police took control of the situation quickly. “There wasn’t much we could do beyond informing our students,” he said.
“I couldn’t possibly speculate as to why someone would do this. People have their own issues and there are some folks who will take advantage of any situation,” Crosby added.
Dalhousie Students’ Union communications co-ordinator Lindsay Dowling said camous security “has done a good job and has taken a proactive approach by letting people know what was going on.”
Campus security has advised students to be alert.
“Students should take precautions, be aware and contact security if they have any concerns,” Burns said.