College Vows Never Again After Cops Use Bathroom

BOSTON — The Berklee College of Music's Public Safety Department said it is "deeply sorry" after allowing Boston police officers to use the Berklee Performance Center restrooms during a May 31 protest at the State House.

In a letter signed by Berklee President Roger Brown, the school said allowing officers to use the restrooms does not undermine its support for the Black Lives Matter movement.

"Let us assure you, this should not have happened, and going forward, it will not happen again," the letter said. It was also signed by Senior Vice President for Administration Mac Hisey and college police Chief David Ransom.

The restrooms were not open to students or the public at the time.

The May 31 protest was a largely peaceful demonstration in response to the death of George Floyd. Around 9 p.m., things started to get violent and riots broke out across the city.

The college said its space was not used as a staging area for police.

Berklee said it heard from hurt and angry members of its community and on social media.

"We understand that many members of our community feel betrayed," Brown wrote. "We are deeply sorry for the impact this had on our community and for perpetuating feelings of oppression, silencing, and marginalization. We will make a more concerted effort to consider the effects of our actions."