Macalester College Professor Faces Charges After Urinating on Student's Backpack
Paul Fischer, a biology professor, is under investigation for urinating on a student's belongings, linked to multiple prior incidents.
Professor Paul Fischer allegedly urinated on a student's backpack at Macalester College.
He faces charges for first-degree property damage and could receive up to five years in prison.
Fischer is connected to six previous reports of similar incidents on campus.
A biology professor at Macalester College in Saint Paul, Minnesota, is facing serious legal repercussions after allegedly urinating on a student's backpack. The incident occurred on December 5, 2025, when a student briefly left her belongings unattended at the Olin-Rice Science Centre. Upon her return, she discovered urine on her backpack, leading her to suspect Professor Paul Fischer, who was the only person nearby at the time.
The student reported the incident to campus authorities, providing receipts that estimated the damage to her belongings at approximately $2,000. Following this report, the Macalester College Department of Public Safety conducted an investigation, which revealed that Fischer was linked to six previous reports of urine being found in various locations on campus, including trash cans and water bottles.
During police questioning, Fischer acknowledged a troubling habit developed over the last two years, where he would urinate into a cup and dispose of it in campus trash cans or sinks. He suggested that the urine on the student's backpack may have been an accident while he was emptying a cup near his office. This admission has raised concerns about his behavior and its implications for campus safety.
In light of the ongoing investigation, Macalester College confirmed that Fischer's employment ended during the 2025-2026 academic year. He resigned while the college was looking into the reported incidents. If convicted of first-degree property damage, Fischer could face up to five years in prison and a fine of $10,000.
Fischer is scheduled to appear in court in early November, as the case continues to unfold. The situation has sparked discussions about campus safety and the responsibilities of faculty members in maintaining a respectful environment for students.
