Many people consider the years they spend at college to be some of the best of their life. In a university setting, you’re able to meet new friends, experience other perspectives of the world, and expand your knowledge of subjects that are fascinating and complex. However, as you enjoy your college experience, it’s important to keep your safety in mind both on your university campus and off it. While most college campuses do have some level of security, it does not mean that they are entirely free of crime.
Some of the most common crimes experienced by college students, faculty, and staff include burglary, theft, and sexual assault. In this article, we discuss some of the most common crimes on college campuses so you can best protect yourself and those you care about.
Theft Crimes & Burglary
Theft crimes are unfortunately not an uncommon experience on college campuses. You should always take care not to leave valuable items unattended or out in the open, even within your own dorm room or apartment. If you live with other people, you never know who may find themselves in your shared living environment as an invited guest. Laptops, cellphones, and even textbooks may be taken if they are left unattended.
Break-ins also occur on college campuses, oftentimes because an external door is left propped open or unlocked. While it may seem convenient to not have to unlock the door to your building, it does increase the risk of someone gaining entry that should not be present. Likewise, you should always lock your door when you leave your room, even if you’re simply making a quick trip to the bathroom. Propping your door open allows people to gain easy access to your room if you aren’t present.
When you’re walking around your campus and the surrounding areas, be sure to pay attention to your surroundings. Particularly if you’re wearing a backpack or carrying a bookbag, you may present an appealing target to a would-be mugger. By keeping your head up and staying off your phone while walking, you lower the chances of being seen as an easy mark.
Theft of a Motor Vehicle
Vehicle break-ins and theft do occur on college campuses, most often as a crime of opportunity. If a car is left unlocked, parked in a dark or isolated area, or has valuable items left out on the seat, it becomes a desirable target. Some vehicles also have design flaws that make them easier to break into or steal than the average car. For example, a soft-top Jeep is an easier target for an experienced criminal than a locked pickup truck.
It’s important to be aware of your vehicle’s vulnerabilities. If you know that your vehicle is valuable or easy to break into, be sure to park in a well-lit area and install an anti-theft device. Do not leave any valuables in plain sight, roll up your windows fully, and never leave your house keys in the vehicle unattended. If you notice a suspicious person looking into car windows or loitering around a parking lot on your campus, call your institution’s security or the police. Trust your instincts and don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance if you suspect that something is wrong.
Sexual Assault
Sexual assault is one of the most serious crimes that occurs on college campuses. Most colleges rightfully take sexual assault allegations and convictions incredibly seriously and work to protect the victims of such a crime to the best of their ability. However, such crimes are still unfortunately prevalent on college campuses in the United States. The Office on Women’s Health estimates that one in five college women experiences sexual assault, with the highest risk periods being the early months of the first and second semesters.
It is important to remember that it is impossible to prevent all instances of sexual assault or abuse, since such behavior is always the responsibility of the aggressor. There are steps you can take to make yourself and your friends safer on a college campus.
- Get to know people before spending time alone with them
- Go to parties or gatherings with trusted friends
- Meet new people or dates in a public place
- Keep an eye on your drink when in a social setting; if your drink leaves your sight, assume that it may have been tampered with
- Especially at night, pay attention to your surroundings and don’t walk with headphones in
If you are attacked, you can file a report with your school’s authorities and the police. The police take sexual assault charges seriously and will likely work to arrest the suspect. A court case may follow, depending on the unique circumstances of the situation.
What Should You Do if You Are the Victim of a College Crime?
Any type of college crime, whether violent or property-related, can be incredibly stressful. If you are the victim of a crime at your campus or place of residence, there are resources available to assist you. You may find it beneficial to:
- Get to a safe location. If you have been attacked or your residence has been broken into, find a safe environment to wait at until help arrives.
- Call 911. Request assistance from the police. The dispatcher will explain what you need to do and stay on the line until the authorities arrive.
- Contact a friend or family member. Get in touch with someone you trust that can help you process the situation or provide someplace for you to stay.
- Contact an attorney. Discuss your legal options with a reputable local attorney that has experience with your type of criminal case.
- Seek a restraining order. If you know the identity of your attacker, seek a restraining order to prevent them from being in your presence or on your property.
- Call your bank. If credit cards or bank details were stolen, contact your bank to protect your finances.