Reports of animal cruelty

To: UC Santa Cruz Community

From: Nader Oweis, Chief of Police

The UC Santa Cruz Police Department is aware of reports about a video circulating on social media in which a woman disclosed a deeply troubling act of animal cruelty.

The woman—who graduated from UC Santa Cruz in 2016 and is no longer affiliated with the campus—has since suggested it was a hoax.

The information has been shared with the Santa Cruz County Animal Control Office for follow up.

We thank everyone for alerting us to these allegations.

Safety Tips

  • No action or inaction by a crime victim makes that person responsible for their victimization.
  • Perpetrators are responsible for crimes and their effects.
  • If you feel you or others are in danger, immediately call 911.
  • Immediately report all crimes, suspicious people, activity or information to the UC Santa Cruz Police Department.
  • Be alert to your surroundings.
  • Your actions can help prevent others from becoming victims. Attempt to keep a safe distance from strangers.
  • Trust your instincts. If something or someone makes you uneasy, tell someone, avoid the person or leave the area.

Campus Resources

For students, a range of support services is also available through the Cowell Student Health Center, including personal counseling through Counseling and Psychological Services and support through a Confidential Victim Advocate. More information can be found online.

For student and employees, the Office of Harassment and Discrimination, Prevention and Investigation Unit can provide assistance and can be reached at 831-459-2462.

For employees, the Employee Assistance Program can provide personal counseling and support. More information can be found online.

Report all suspicious persons, in-progress crimes, and emergencies by calling 911.

This bulletin is in compliance with 20 U.S.C. Section 1092 (f), the "Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act" ("Clery Act"), and the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR).