A Disruptive Individual, what should I do?

If you witness an armed individual on campus at any time or an individual who is acting in a hostile or belligerent manner, immediately call 911 or the University Police Department at 508-531-1212
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Disruptive Individual Definition:

• An individual who makes threats of physical harm to you, others, or themselves.
• An individual who has a weapon.
• An individual who behaves in a bizarre manner or exhibits unstable behavior.
• An individual who is intoxicated or under the influence of a controlled substance.

If confronted by the individual:

• Contact the University Police Department (UPD) at 508-531-1212 or call 911.
• Give your name and location with a brief explanation of the situation to the operator.
• Take note of the individual’s age, personal appearance, vehicle, and any other information that would help identify them.

​Actions to take:

• Stay calm.
• Sit or stand up straight. Do not slouch.
• Smile and make eye contact.
• Speak clearly and distinctly in a confident, normal tone.
  Do not touch your face. (This may be seen as a sign of aggression.)
• Do not touch the individual, sigh or glare at them, or invade their personal space.
• Use their name, if known, and ask them to sit down.
• Paraphrase what they say so that they know you are listening.
• Offer assistance and explain how you can help, using “we” to include them in the solution process.
• If possible, advise others of the potential problem.