University of Guelph, police to join ‘homecoming working group’ after chaotic party

Guelph police and the city have announced the formation of a "homecoming working group" following a chaotic University of Guelph party last week. The joint initiative aims to enhance community safety and provide solutions for holding offenders accountable. Police, the hospital, and municipal services already conduct extensive planning for homecoming each year, but the circumstances surrounding the unsanctioned gathering on Sept.

26 revealed significant changes in the environment. Videos from the incident showed large crowds of young individuals in the streets, with some engaging in destructive behavior like throwing bottles, climbing buildings, shoplifting, and causing vandalism at nearby businesses. University of Guelph president Rene Van Acker expressed concerns about the party's potential impact on student and neighbor safety, and the university is currently reviewing the situation.

Police have attributed the escalation in size and risks of unsanctioned gatherings to social media and individuals encouraging disorder. The working group will meet regularly to discuss recommendations for preventing and responding to such events. Last week, police requested public assistance in identifying individuals visible in the social media videos from the Sept.

26 party. Several people were charged with criminal and provincial offenses during the weekend following the party.