Northeastern increases bathroom security after prostitution allegations

Northeastern University installed Husky ID readers outside at least eight bathrooms in Mugar Hall due to reports of ‘prostitution-related activity’ Huntington News, Northeastern’s independent student newspaper reported Wednesday.

The university confirmed that bathrooms were closed for safety reasons, but did not respond to questions regarding alleged prostitution activities.

“Due to security concerns raised by faculty, students and staff, the university has implemented enhanced Mugar Hall access requirements, including Husky ID locks in main bathrooms,” Northeastern said in an email

Northeastern University Police Department crime diaries present eight reports of trespassing, suspicious activity and lewd and lascivious behavior at Mugar Hall between May 13 and June 19. Within a month, one person was arrested and four others were summoned to court, according to the daily. There were three calls to the police for “suspicious activity” within two hours on June 6.

The Huntington News reports that other bathrooms, including West Village G and International Village, have locks. To enter a locked bathroom, students may use your Husky ID on the card reader that all students and staff have.

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu raised concerns about alleged activity at Northeastern.

“Everywhere in our city, people need to feel safe and know that illegal activity will not be tolerated, especially when it comes to spaces where our students and young people reside,” Wu said.

Talia Lissauer can be reached at [email protected]. Follow her on Instagram @_ttphotos.