Campus crime on the decline

The KU Public Safety Office announced that reported crimes in parking lots where surveillance cameras were installed last year dropped 23 percent. Overall, reported crime on the Lawrence campus dropped 7.6 percent in 2005 and reflects a steady decline since 1997, except for a slight increase in 2003.

"Any time we can report a decrease in the number of reported crimes on this campus, we are extremely pleased," said Chief Ralph V. Oliver.

The Chancellor's and Provost's offices funded the security cameras, which were installed in 10 campus lots in last August. The cameras record continuously and are monitored during evening hours when classes are in session.

Property crimes continue to account for the majority of reported crime on campus. Reported thefts on campus decreased overall, though there was a slight increase in bike thefts. Other property crimes such as burglary and criminal damage to property both showed decreases.  

"Requests for educational programs were on the rise in 2005, indicating more students want to know what steps they can take to prevent them from becoming a victim of crime," Oliver said.  "We wholeheartedly support and encourage everyone to take an active role in the safety of their property as well as themselves."

A full listing of all offenses reported for 1997 to 2005 can be found at the department's Web site, www.ku.edu/~kucops.