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ORANGEBURG, S.C. (WIS) - South Carolina State University says campus safety has become a top priority after two shootings during homecoming weekend earlier this month — one of which claimed the life of 19-year-old student Jaliyah Butler. Friday marks the university’s first home game since Butler’s death outside a dorm on campus. In response, the university has been ramping up new security measures, including patrol increases, fencing repairs, and upgraded locks at residence halls. Public Safety Chief Richard Johnson says the department has focused on securing entry points and tightening patrols, especially around Hugine Suites, where Butler was killed. “We’ve got to keep in mind that South Carolina is a constitutional carry state,” Johnson said. “A lot of weapons come in through vehicles. We’ve been repairing fences and tightening access points. When people come through the main gate, we’re checking bags — and our response was immediate that night.” Some dorms have already received automated locks tied to individual student access cards, and a community safety hub — a new police and security station inside Hugine Suites — will open for this weekend’s game, according to Gerald Smalls, the university’s vice president for finance and operations. “We’re going to have personnel in this center for this first game,” Smalls said. “People are going to be here tomorrow.” Smalls also says crews are rebuilding and doubling up fences around the stadium to help with crowd control after reports that some individuals entered during homecoming without tickets. “What we’re trying to do is make sure we have a solid perimeter,” he said. “Some areas were destroyed during homecoming — we’re rebuilding and fine-tuning those now.” The university says it has also included a line item in its upcoming budget proposal to the General Assembly to hire more officers and security, and to purchase more security equipment for campus. Students tell WIS they hope this weekend’s game will bring a sense of unity back to campus. “I’m hoping it will bring back all the positive energy and vibes that left after homecoming,” said student Morgan Williams. “I feel safe,” added student Courtney Johnson. “The school has been having endless meetings with security.” Chief Johnson says families should feel confident that campus officers will continue to put safety first. “The safety of everyone — students, faculty, and staff — is our top priority,” he said. “Parents can be assured that the Public Safety Department will be there to support their student.” Smalls says the university remains “Bulldog Strong,” and that SC State will do whatever it takes to create a safe environment for its campus community. Kickoff against Morgan State is set for 2 p.m. Saturday at Oliver C. Dawson Stadium. Feel more informed, prepared, and connected with WIS. For more free content like this, subscribe to our email newsletter, and download our apps. Have feedback that can help us improve? Click here.
