Imperial Valley College: ‘See something, say something’

IMPERIAL, Calif. (KYMA) - Students walking near the library at Imperial Valley College (IVC) were met with an increased safety reminder from campus staff. This comes after an incident was reported outside of the library in the evening of May 15.

Staff are encouraging students to use the buddy system at night, stay in well-lit areas, and keep emergency contact numbers accessible, and immediately report any suspicious activity.

"We just want to encourage all of our students to, if they feel any concerns on campus, to see something, to say something, by reaching out to our campus safety team," said Celeste Alvarez, Executive Director of Marketing, Communication, and Public Relations at IVC.

Staff say resources are available for students who may feel unsafe or need support. The college partners with the Imperial County Sheriff's Office, in addition to having campus safety patrols who monitor and secure the area.

"We have an incredible campus safety team. And our dedicated on-site deputy sheriffs. Our most powerful security asset is our community," Alvarez explained.

Despite the incident, many students say they feel safe on campus and appreciate the security measures in place.

"We have security that's actively throughout the campus, and whenever there's something. That needs to be done. They're always on top of it. So for myself, I do feel safe," said Elaine Valdez, an IVC student.

Campus staff say the incident is no longer a threat and the suspect has been arrested. However, anyone with any information on any crime on campus is urged to call campus police.