Days after a Delaware State University student was killed at a large, unsanctioned off-campus party, DSU president Tony Allen reminds students about COVID-19 regulations and consequences if they don’t adhere to them.
Allen’s letter to the students Thursday lauded them for following campus guidelines needed to keep everyone safe - such as wearing masks, practicing social distancing, regular testing, and holding each other accountable. He notes 15,000 campus tests have yielded a less than half percent COVID positivity rate.
But Allen tells students not to lose focus now.
Dover police say Sunday’s party at Schutte Park that resulted in the shooting death of 20-year old DSU student Devin Wright was attended by between 300-500 people - mostly from DSU.
Based on its own investigation, DSU officials dispute the size of the gathering, and that the majority of attendees were students.
But in his letter, Allen raised his concerns about student paticipation in the event.
"I know you are all aware of the gathering that took place over the weekend in Schutte Park in Dover. I know that some of you were there. And we all know what tragically happened to a member of our University family, Devin Wright, the victim of a heinous crime the University and the Dover Police are still investigating," said Allen in his letter. "As we mourn Devin’s senseless loss, I am asking you all to not only be careful, but to also be accountable.
Allen points out DSU’s COVID-19 policy and Gov. John Carney’s emergency declarations making large gatherings like the party at Schutte Park illegal and subject to criminal penalty.
He also reminds them the university has a three-level system for enforcing the DSU policy and state of emergency declarations.
Minor student violations may be addressed with a warning. Continued or more serious violations lead to potential eviction from University housing and removal from campus. Egregious violations can lead to suspension or expulsion.
Allen ended the letter telling students to focus on their future and the opportunities it holds.
"As I noted just a few short days ago, 'Devin's life was cut short through no fault of his own – a son, a brother, a student who will never have the opportunity to graduate college, find a good job, raise a family, or give back to his community.'" said Allen in his letter. "Your opportunities are still in front of you. And we are behind you every step of the way."
