With the new semester under way, I share a few updates on behalf of the UCF Police Department.

On Nov. 16, UCF emailed you about a sexual battery that took place at Knights Circle.

UCFPD diligently investigated the incident and on Dec. 25 arrested Edward Santana Thorpe for lewd or lascivious battery of a minor. Neither Thorpe nor the victim have any UCF affiliation. However, Thorpe was staying at Knights Circle with his girlfriend.

The arrangement violated the terms of her lease agreement and disregarded the safety and well-being of others. Please be careful who you surround yourself with, and do not be afraid to report activity that seems dishonest or is illegal.

Starting this spring, students in the Library may notice additional police presence.

A UCFPD Community Service Officer will staff the Library most nights to provide enhanced security and help students feel comfortable. We anticipate that this partnership between UCFPD and the Library will help to provide an enhanced feeling of well-being for students and staff who are in the facility during late night hours.

New this year, all UCFPD officers will carry Naloxone, an opioid antagonist that when injected can counter drugs such as heroin. UCF received 150 doses of the drug thanks to a grant.

While we haven’t seen heroin being a major issue at UCF, we know the drug’s popularity is growing across Central Florida, and we want to be prepared to help save lives.

UCFPD’s partnership with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office to curb underage drinking and reckless partying behaviors also will continue this semester. SNAP, short for Sector II Noise and Alcohol Patrol, will be in effect most weekends.

Students who are found to be drinking underage, using fake IDs or committing other violations will be subject to referrals to the Office of Student Conduct and criminal action.

The goal for the men and women of UCFPD remains keeping UCF a safe place to learn, work, live and visit.

We ask that you be our partners in safety. Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. If you see something that seems suspicious, report it to us by calling 407-823-5555.

We thank you for your support and wish you success this semester.