A Saint Mary’s College employee has been arrested on preliminary charges of voyeurism after he was allegedly caught observing students in a restroom at the South Bend, Ind., college.

David Summerfield, 73, of Niles, was arrested Tuesday by St. Joseph County Special Victims Unit. The case remains under investigation.

According to a press release by the college, a Saint Mary’s College employee reported on Monday the suspicious behavior of a co-worker who may have been observing students who were in a restroom in Le Mans Hall. Superiors immediately confronted the employee about the allegation. He admitted to the behavior. Within two hours of the initial report, the employee was suspended without pay and escorted off campus. He has since been terminated. Monday evening College officials notified the St. Joseph County Special Victims Unit, which began an immediate police investigation. Tuesday morning he was arrested for voyeurism.

On Tuesday, Saint Mary’s College President Carol Ann Mooney notified students, parents, faculty, and staff about the situation. In an email, President Mooney expressed sincere regret that this happened on campus and praised the courageous employee who came forward.

“The safety, privacy, and security of our students are our primary concerns,” Mooney said. “This type of behavior is repugnant and Saint Mary’s College will not tolerate it. As soon as this was reported to us, we acted swiftly to remove the person from campus. We have taken measures that prevent anyone else from being able to spy into restrooms. In addition, we are evaluating all space on campus to ensure privacy.”

The president invited students, faculty, and staff to an assembly Tuesday afternoon to address concerns. Students who need services or support in dealing with this news will have counseling available through Women’s Health and Campus Ministry. The Residence Life staff is also on hand to provide assistance.