Roses are red, violets are blue, Tom didn’t have a valentine, so he decided to peep on you!  All jokes aside, Drury University had a serious security issue on their hands this past Valentine’s Day.

Around 9:45 p.m., an African American male in his late 30s (or early 40s) was spotted peering into the windows of a Summit Park Apartment. He was dressed in dark-colored, baggy clothing.

According to Sophomore Lauren Slamb, resident of the apartment, she was the one who he spied on.

“I ordered a pizza, so I was waiting in the living room until it came,” explained Slamb.

When it was delivered, she  stayed in the living room and preceded to watch “Bill Nye Saves the World” on Netflix until someone knocked on the door.

“It was the nice neighbor across the street,” said Slamb. “She told me there was a guy watching through the window for a really long time and anytime a car would come, he’d run behind the house.”

The neighbor called the cops, but the man got away before they could arrive.

Slamb did not see the Peeping Tom, but was shaken up nontheless.

“I’m still scared walking home alone at night or standing near my window,” said Slamb. “I feel like he’s always watching me.

Unfortunately, Slamb is now questioning the safety of Drury’s campus.

After the incident, Drury released an email with a list of safeguards against this intrusive action. The easiest way to safeguard yourself from crime is to take preventative actions.

According to security, it’s important to keep all doors and windows locked, even if someone is in the residence.  Students also need to keep blinds closed while changing clothes and sleeping. While walking around campus, pay attention to your surroundings and try to walk in well-lit areas.

These situations can be frightening, but don’t panic.

“Call security and or the police, reporting the time and location of the incident,” said Sarene Deeds, director of safety and security at the university. “If any witnesses are present, get their names and phone numbers. Details of the exhibitionist’s appearance will help in identifying the individual, so try to get a good look at the offender. If a car is involved, try to remember the color, make, license plate number and direction of travel.”

Students can contact Drury security at 873-7911. If in immediate danger, please call 911.

Article by Danielle Wheelan.