Macomb, IL – Macomb's mayor and WIU's president both say they will not tolerate the harassment of a woman whose house was vandalized over the weekend.
Police are looking for at least four people who destroyed the chain link fence at 120 West Adams Street early Sunday morning. It's not the first time there have been problems at the home where Barbara Martin lives.
Martin complained a couple years ago about college students shouting obscenities at her and teasing her dogs. In addition, the fence has been damaged in the past.
The home is located between the downtown bars and campus and many students pass it on their way to and from the taverns. Martin installed security cameras due to the past problems and the images taken by the cameras are now being reviewed by police. In addition, Mayor Mick Wisslead is asking anyone who has information about the vandals to share it with police.
This week, WIU President Al Goldfarb wrote a letter addressed to the university's students:
I am writing to all of our students, as I have done in the past, asking that you demonstrate respect and consideration of others and maintain positive relationships with members of the Macomb community.
I know that the vast majority of our students are outstanding Macomb citizens. Unfortunately, the University continues to receive complaints from local residents about students who are damaging and destroying property. The University will not tolerate inappropriate behavior, particularly the harassment of local citizens and the destruction of property.
We will continue to work with Macomb and University police to make certain that those who damage property and harass others - off or on campus - are punished not only through the legal system, but also through Western's student judicial system. I ask that you consider how such actions reflect not only on you, but also your family and your University.
I know that the vast majority of our students make a positive impact in our community and in the lives of others each and every day. However, please remember that any acts of incivility can have serious consequences both within and outside of the University.
Thank you,
Al Goldfarb
President