RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — Eighteen Shaw University college students have been stopped and searched whereas using to an financial convention in Atlanta.

University President Dr. Paulette Dillard mentioned the cease and search occurred on Oct. 5.

The group was using in a bus to the Center for Financial Advancement Conference when deputies in Spartanburg County, South Carolina, pulled the bus over. Dillard mentioned the bus was pulled over for a minor site visitors violation after which deputies used drug-sniffing canines to go looking by college students’ suitcases.

SEE ALSO: Minor traffic violations will no longer get you pulled over in Mecklenburg County

Dillard mentioned the second was harking back to the Nineteen Fifties and 60s.

“In a word, I am ‘outraged.’ This behavior of targeting Black students is unacceptable and will not be ignored nor tolerated. Had the students been White, I doubt this detention and search would have occurred,” she mentioned.

“Why would you think they’re about to do something they’re not supposed to? Why do you just think it was drugs or something?” pupil Tionna Mayo requested.

Shaw University college students have been confused and shocked by what occurred.

“It’s 2022. I don’t understand why students are being harassed in this form or fashion,” Brendan Truynor mentioned.

Students at Shaw mentioned an expertise like that would cloud the opinion of the individuals concerned.

“I feel like that could be a little traumatizing. Just know everything that’s happened to black people with police officers,” Nikaya Matier mentioned.

SEE ALSO: I-Team investigation finds Black drivers stopped, searched at disproportional rate

Dillard mentioned the deputies discovered nothing unlawful of their search and issued the driving force a warning ticket for “improper lane use,” saying the bus was swerving whereas driving down the street.

“Our students stood tall amid an unnerving and humiliating experience and because of their dignified and professional response, the situation did not escalate into something far more sinister,” she mentioned.

Shaw University is now investigating what occurred and will pursue authorized motion.

ABC11 reached out to the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office to search out out extra concerning the site visitors cease. However, a lieutenant mentioned they may not share any details about the cease with out specifics such because the title of the bus driver and tag data. Shaw University mentioned it could not be releasing any additional particulars right now.