Harvard could better secure itself by restricting access to the Yard, the libraries and other buildings to affiliates only, Reppert says, but such a move would come at a “horrendous price.”

Members of the public could not attend Harvard lectures and panels, outside researchers could not gain access to the University’s vast library holdings and students and tour groups would not be able to view the Yard.

“It’s outrageous to restrict access in an educational environment,” agrees Harvard University Police Department (HUPD) Chief Francis D. “Bud” Riley. “If we need to restrict access, we will—but we’ll make sure we can explain it. We’re just not at that level of risk.”

Reppert recommends HUPD refocus some of its community-oriented policing resources since many of the departmetn’s outreach efforts focus on preventing theft in University buildings.

“Laptops and billfolds may not be our greatest risk,” he says.