Salem State Students Accused Of Coronavirus Violations, Vandalism

SALEM, MA — Salem State University students were charged in two separated incidents Friday night as students gathered for a large, off-campus apartment party and another student is accused of vandalizing Pickman Park.

"In addition to violating rules regarding large gatherings, there was also conduct involved in both incidents that led to arrests," Mayor Kim Driscoll and Salem State President John Keenan said in a joint statement issued Saturday night. "In each case, the Salem Police Department and city officials are working closely with Salem State police and university officials to identify as many responsible parties as possible and ensure they face the appropriate consequences, both on- and off-campus."

The mayor and university president said more than 50 people, including Salem State students, were at an apartment party on Becket Street. There was one person, who was not an SSU student, charged with disorderly conduct and resisting arrest.

Police said the property owner will be cited for "keeping a disorderly house." The mayor and university president said those who can be identified who were at the party will be issued citations from Salem public health officials and receive university discipline.

"All individuals who attended this gathering, whether identified or not, are strongly encouraged to get a free COVID-19 test, either through SSU, if they are a university student, or through the city's free 'Stop the Spread' testing at Salem High School," the joint statement said.

A Salem State student is also charged with burning personal property, vandalism and destruction of property over $1,200 for damage done to equipment at Pickman Park. Police said two other students provided information that led to the arrest.

Police are looking to identify any other people who might have been at Pickman Park while the damage was done.

"We are issuing this joint statement to keep community members informed about these activities and to assure you that city and university leaders take seriously the public health concerns such incidents raise," the statement said. "Those responsible in both instances will be held accountable to the greatest extent possible under the law and under the university's disciplinary policies. We believe it is important that City and university officials work together to prevent the spread of the coronavirus in our community."