University Add ID Reader Locks to Bathrooms to Tackle Prostitution Claims on Campus; Student Outraged

Northeastern University has implemented security measures following claims of prostitution on campus.

Students report that numerous restrooms on the school’s Boston campus now have locks that require them to tap their IDs. Students, educators, and staff all expressed concerns about their safety.

The school stated that it had “implemented enhanced access requirements inside Mugar Hall, including Husky ID reader locks for the main bathrooms.”

The Huntington News, an independent student publication, highlighted the reforms discussed during the September faculty senate meeting. According to meeting notes, a professor was concerned about the lack of early notification and the challenges for campus visitors.

During a meeting in October, the senior vice president for academic affairs stated that the security measures were adopted in response to “prostitution-related activities.”

According to campus police files, over the summer, callers reported suspicious activities ranging from sleeping and loitering to obscene and lascivious behavior. Several people were summoned to court, and one was arrested, according to the records.

According to Senate faculty minutes, campus police propose that guests and visiting scholars register for access.

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