This story was updated Thurs. Nov. 13, 2025 to accurately reflect data reports and comparisons.
As the University of Tennessee at Martin’s student population continues to grow, the volume of crimes reported on campus is also trending upward.
Since Jan. 1, there have been 126 crimes reported to UTM Public Safety, according to data published in the Daily Crime/Fire Log. These reports range from alcohol/drug violations to major crimes such as burglary and rape. This number does not account for all reports handled internally by the Office of Access, Compliance, and Title IX.
According the the 2025 Annual Security and Fire Safety Report, UTM public safety responded to three reports of stalking in 2023 and six in 2024. Thus far in 2025, public safety has received 11 reports of harassment five reports of stalking. Per the report, stalking is defined as “repeated or continuing harassment of another individual.”
Reports of sexual assault are also on pace to meet the number of incidents reported last year – Public Safety responded to nine incidents of rape and/or fondling in 2024. Since Jan. 1, 2025 seven cases have been reported.
Many of these issues are handled by Campus Safety, Title IX or Student Conduct, with the outcome of those proceedings not openly reported.
“We have been working to have more consistent patrols around campus, along with increasing our presence during the nighttime to ensure student safety,” UT Martin’s Public Safety Director Michael O’Neill said.
UTM students have begun to present their own issues regarding campus safety and their internal sense of security.
“Students have been requesting many things, such as more lighting around campus and more communication between administration and the student body,” said Chayil Watkins, a junior agriculture-business major and current secretary-general for Student Government. “Student Government has been working alongside administration to better vocalize these concerns and much more in regard to creating a safer community and environment for everyone.”
Students are urging administrators to take tangible steps such as improving lighting, increasing patrols, updating emergency technology and providing safety escorts after dark. They also advocate for more open forums between students and public safety officials so concerns can be addressed directly and transparently.
“During my time at UT Martin, I have consistently been told the same things over and over about improvements coming to the school, but nothing has changed” said Da’Amonie Hall, a senior nursing student. “As someone who has had late classes since freshman year, moving around campus at night is extremely scary due to the small number of lights around campus, along with the lack of public safety around the quad after a certain time.”
University officials have acknowledged these concerns and stated that plans are underway to enhance security infrastructure and increase communication. Most recently a new crosswalk installation began along Mt. Pelia Road to improve pedestrian visibility and lighting.
Another layer of the conversation involves mental health and prevention efforts. Students argue that campus safety should not only address physical threats but also emotional and psychological well being. The school offers resources such as the CARE Team and on-campus counseling via Student Health and Counseling Services.
Allison Castleman, the current director of the department, said, “We are here for students who are struggling with anything. We are a resource for everyone. No matter the issue, big or small, stop by or schedule an appointment to speak with someone.”
