St. Cloud State student admits swastika vandalism

Jim Mone, Associated Press

Students walk past a banner promoting diversity on the Atwood Memorial Center on the campus of St. Cloud State University Jan. 16.

Associated Press

Last update: January 31, 2008 - 9:08 PM

St. Cloud police may have the found the culprit responsible for drawing at least one swastika on the St. Cloud State University campus.

A suspect who admitted drawing a swastika at Stearns Hall was interviewed on Monday, said Richard Wilson, assistant St. Cloud police chief. University President Earl Potter said the man is a St. Cloud State student.

Police, however, don't believe the suspect is responsible for a series of anti-Semitic drawings and racial graffiti found on campus over the past few months.

Wilson said the case has been sent to the Stearns County Attorney for possible charges.

Meanwhile, the university has begun its own investigation of the student, Potter said. "It's not a sit-and-wait-and-see-what-the-police-do kind of thing," he said.

The university's Office of Student Life and Development could try the student under its student code of conduct, which could lead to suspension or expulsion, he said.

But Potter said he hopes the campus responds "not with hate towards this individual, but rather seeks healing."

University officials say they will remain on alert.

"We can't assume that this situation means an end to any intolerant behavior," said Marge Proell, university spokeswoman. "We will continue to distribute and post safety alerts if there are further hateful acts. We will continue to be vigilant."

JENNA ROSS AND Mary Lynn Smith

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