Liquor law violations and stalking cases remain the most notable incidents reported in Central Michigan University’s annual safety reports.
CMU Police Chief Cameron Wassman said the data reflects reporting and prevention efforts rather than a lack of campus safety.
According to the Annual Safety and Fire Report, there were 147 Liquor Law Violations referred to disciplinary action on campus in 2025, compared to 166 cases in 2024.
Wassman said the decrease is partly due to increased student awareness of the consequences of underage drinking violations, which can result in referrals to the university’s Code of Conduct process and monetary fines.
The Central Michigan Police Department is always seeking feedback regarding what the police department and the university can do to improve campus safety, Wassman said. From campus lighting to surveillance cameras, the police department uses strategies to maintain campus safety.
Through education and communication about university and legal penalties, students are better informed about the risks of violating liquor laws. Most of these violations occurred in residence halls, where hall staff encountered incidents of underage drinking.
A first-time minor in possession violation reported to police carries a $320 fine through the Isabella County Trial Court.
Wassman said it was important that students understand Michigan’s alcohol laws and the penalties associated with violations.
According to the safety report, last year 15 stalking cases were reported on campus. Seven of the reports were in residence halls and eight were elsewhere on campus. In 2024, 10 stalking cases were reported.
“The police department has experienced both situations where there are repeated occurrences involving the same people,” Wassman said. “There have been cases where there’s been one suspect who has committed stalking against multiple people.”
In stalking cases, the university can support victims by changing their housing assignments and modifying class schedules to prevent contact with the suspect.
“If someone is fearful or uneasy about somebody they think might be stalking them, it’s important to report it to the police department or the Office of Civil Rights and Inclusivity,” Wassman said. “These things must be addressed early on.”
He said the department uses the data not only to assess past incidents but also to determine where reear to address emerging campus safety concerns
