BUPD officers worked closely with local and federal law enforcement agencies on an investigation that began in January. Photo via AdobeStock/JHVE Photo

University News

Following Thorough Investigation, BUPD and Other Agencies Make Arrest

An individual with ties to BU is in custody, without bail, until further proceedings

Police arrested an individual with ties to Boston University on Thursday, after he made threats toward University leaders and others that escalated over several months, police say. University officials, including Boston University Police Chief Rob Lowe, emphasize that the campus community is safe, adding, “There are no safety concerns associated with our community.”

“The safety of our campus is our highest priority,” Lowe says. “We took these threats seriously and followed established protocols with our partnering agencies. We were in touch with the University individuals who were directly impacted throughout and closely monitored the situation across campus to ensure our community’s safety. This is someone who was acting on his own and we are grateful to our law enforcement partners who helped keep our community safe.”

The individual, Maximillien Sajous, was arrested at Logan International Airport. Sajous had not been on campus since early 2026, nor in the country since April, and did not live on campus, Lowe says. Sajous, who is not an active student at BU, was arraigned at the Boston Municipal Court in Brighton on Friday morning, where he was ordered to remain in custody without bail until further proceedings.

“This case demonstrates the strong collaboration among multiple law enforcement agencies working together to ensure that an individual who made threats was identified and prevented from causing harm,” said Kelly Nee, BU’s vice president for safety, security, and preparedness. “Throughout the investigation, our focus remained on the safety of the Boston University community, with diligent monitoring and close coordination at every stage. While some of the charges may sound concerning, the most important message is that our community is safe and there is no ongoing threat.” 

BUPD officers worked closely with local and federal law enforcement agencies on an investigation that began in January, police say. Officers were in touch with everyone whom Sajous contacted to ensure their safety and well-being and that of the entire BU community.

In a news release issued Friday, Suffolk District Attorney Kevin Hayden said, in part, “I’m thankful that Boston University officials and police acted as quickly and effectively as they did. We have too often seen the results when situations like this are not treated with the seriousness they deserve, and that was certainly not the case here.” 

In a letter to the campus community released Friday, BU President Melissa Gilliam wrote, “I also want to acknowledge the sadness that we feel for the members of our community who have been affected. Our concern also extends to this individual. We recognize that news like this can understandably create unease. Please know that, as always, our public safety teams remain vigilant, follow established protocols, and work closely with law enforcement partners at every level.” 

Gilliam encouraged students, faculty, and staff to utilize the University’s support resources as needed: 

Students can find counseling and other resources through BU’s Student Wellbeing office and the student support finder. Additional resources are also available, including:

• Crisis Counseling, 930 Commonwealth Avenue, 617-353-7277
• Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS), 881 Commonwealth Avenue, 617-353-3569
• University Chaplains, Marsh Chapel, 617-358-3394
• Student Support Services, 775 Commonwealth Avenue, 617-353-4126, for assistance with non-clinical needs

Faculty and staff can find resources through the Faculty & Staff Assistance Office.

As is standard with major University events, there will be an increased police presence at BU’s Commencement exercises this weekend—part of a safety plan that is months in the making.