Dear AU Community,

This afternoon, there were community and social media reports about the possible presence of an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) individual on campus. We are aware that a single individual was seen wearing clothing that appeared to be mocked-up and altered to look like an ICE uniform. We confirmed with law enforcement that there were no official ICE operations at American University today. No law enforcement entities contacted AUPD or any other university offices about official activity on campus. AUPD continues to investigate and will seek to identify the individual that was observed on campus.

We understand the heightened concerns about law enforcement activity and federal immigration policies. Additionally, there are those in the world seeking to create discord and fear in these situations. The most important things each of us can do are to report suspicious activity to AUPD so it can be promptly investigated and avoid rushed conclusions. As President Alger stated in his message last week, we have updated and affirmed university guidance about immigration information and enforcement, which reinforces our commitment to treating all community members with dignity, fairness, and respect and upholding our responsibilities in a manner that is consistent with the law. 

If you have questions about law enforcement activity, contact AUPD at 202-885-2527 or police@american.edu. 

Sincerely,

Bronté Burleigh-Jones
CFO, Vice President, and Treasurer

Phil Morse
Assistant Vice President, University Police Services & Emergency Management