Akshay Garud, a bioengineering student at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), was arrested on September 6, 2024, at the Grainger Engineering Library. According to police reports, the arrest stemmed from allegations of battery and disorderly conduct related to unwanted romantic advances toward female students. The reports also cite a thrown note striking a student, loud music, and resistance during the arrest. These are allegations, and Garud is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Garud’s Academic and Professional Background
Garud was pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Bioengineering with a minor in Computer Science, expected to graduate in 2025. His coursework included Linear Algebra for Biomedical Data Science, Data Structures, Cellular Bioengineering, Tissue Engineering, and Transport and Flow in Bioengineering. He possessed a diverse skillset applicable to bioengineering, including programming languages (Java, Python, C++), data science tools (R, MATLAB/Octave, Node.js), design and modeling software (AutoCAD, Autodesk Inventor, Onshape), and image analysis software (ImageJ). He also had experience with 3D printing and API testing.
From September 2023 to May 2024, Garud worked as a research assistant at the Gritton Lab, studying neural responses in mice navigating AI-generated mazes using advanced imaging and optogenetics techniques. During the summer of 2024, he interned at Truss Health, where he focused on software development with Node.js and React, API testing, and camera system design. His academic strengths reportedly included linear algebra, machine learning, and statistics.
Summary of Akshay Garud’s Profile at UIUC
Area
Details
Degree Program
Bioengineering (B.S.) with a Minor in Computer Science
Expected Graduation
2025
Research
Gritton Lab (Sept. 2023 – May 2024): Neural responses in mice navigating AI-generated mazes.
Internship
Truss Health (Summer 2024): Software development, API testing, camera system design.
Key Skills
Java, Python, C++, R, MATLAB/Octave, Node.js, AutoCAD, Autodesk Inventor, Onshape, ImageJ, 3D Printing, API Testing
Relevant Coursework
Linear Algebra for Biomedical Data Science, Data Structures, Cellular Bioengineering, etc.
Incident
Arrest at Grainger Engineering Library (Sept. 6, 2024): Battery and disorderly conduct.
The Arrest at UIUC: A Detailed Account
The incident at the Grainger Engineering Library began with Garud allegedly making unwanted romantic advances toward a group of female students, including passing notes with comments about their appearance and his phone number. One student indicated she was already in a relationship. Garud then allegedly threw a crumpled note that struck one of the students. The note contained conflicting messages: “You guys are also beautiful” on one side and “Don’t make me do this. Be a good person” on the other.
Garud reportedly began playing loud music and continued to interact with the students despite their discomfort. Upon arrival, UIPD Officer Hoskins asked Garud to leave, which he initially did before reportedly returning to the students. Officer Hoskins intervened again, and Garud allegedly resisted, falling to the floor. Sergeant Unander attempted to explain the situation, but Garud reportedly remained disruptive and tried to enter the room where the students were being interviewed. Officer Bradley then handcuffed Garud, who continued to resist, according to reports. Cell phone footage reportedly captures Garud saying, “I was just trying to compliment her” during the arrest.
At the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office Jail, Garud allegedly resisted instructions again, resulting in the use of a taser and a safety garment by deputies. He was released later that evening.
Timeline of Events at UIUC
Incident
Location
Action Taken by Authority
Garud’s Response
Unwanted Advances
Grainger Engineering Library
Verbal Warning
Persistent Advances
Throwing Note
Grainger Engineering Library
Police Intervention
Resistance
Resisting Arrest
Grainger Engineering Library
Handcuffing
Continued Resistance
Non-Compliance with Jail Staff
Champaign County Sheriff’s Office
Taser, Safety Garment
Resistance
Akshay Garud’s Research at UIUC: An Ongoing Investigation
While Garud’s LinkedIn profile and background suggest involvement in bioengineering research at Gritton Labs and Basepair Inc., specific details of his projects remain unclear. Efforts to locate publications connected to his name are ongoing. This article will be updated as more information becomes available.
At Gritton Labs, Garud’s work likely involved neurophysiology, possibly utilizing techniques like calcium imaging and optogenetics. At Basepair Inc., a genomics data analysis company, his work probably involved applying bioengineering principles to genomic research, potentially contributing to projects related to DNA sequencing or gene expression analysis. A comprehensive search of academic databases and UIUC resources is underway to uncover any publications or presentations related to his research. The absence of readily available publications does not negate the potential value of his research contributions, which may be part of larger, ongoing projects.
Impact and Implications
This incident raises questions about student support systems for those experiencing unwanted advances and ensuring a safe campus environment. The long-term impact on Garud’s academic and professional future remains uncertain and depends on the outcome of the legal process. It is crucial to avoid speculation and rely on verified information as this situation unfolds. This incident underscores the importance of respectful interactions and the need for continued dialogue on campus safety and student well-being. Updates will be provided as new information emerges.
Update: [Date of any updates] – [Information added]
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