Coyotes consider campus security a priority

By Ayumi Yoshihama |Staff Writer|

“[CSUSB] is the one of safest universities in the country,” stated Detective Corporal Devon Herrington of the University Police Department in an email concerning safety tips on Oct. 16.

However, he also mentioned in the same email that criminal activity in San Bernardino increased in reported cases such as vehicle thefts, burglaries, and robbery in the last month.

To many students, campus safety is a priority.

I interviewed a few Coyotes who currently live in the dormitories about safety around campus.

Most of the students said they feel safe on campus because they have never been in a dangerous situation, yet they sometimes hear news that someone was robbed or in an accident.

One student, who wishes to remain anonymous, said her car was keyed when she parked on campus during class.

Some students said they are more afraid of wild animals around campus.

A student who used to attend UC Riverside (UCR) believes that CSUSB is safer compared to UCR because she heard of more serious cases, such as rape, reported when dorming at UCR.

Most of the students I interviewed also said they feel secure on campus, but not off campus in San Bernardino–especially around the downtown area as reported crime has increased.

Despite that, many students think that campus police offer them peace of mind because they often see them around campus, and respond very quickly when something is reported.

One time, a student, who wishes to remain anonymous, encountered a coyote on their way to the dormitories and called campus police.

They arrived three minutes after her call.

The University Police Department consistently gives us information about their services and incidents on campus through emails and on their website, so many of the students I interviewed knew about the services.

One useful campus police service is the campus escort service provided by foot, department cart, or state vehicle.

If you have to walk around campus alone at night, they may escort you upon request.

This service is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and you may contact them at (909) 537-7777.

You can also protect yourself by being extra cautious and aware of your surroundings.

Here are some safety tips stated in the email by Detective Corporal Herrington of the University Police Department.

1. At night, walk with friends or in a group.

2. Avoid shortcuts. Plan the safest route to your destination; choose well-lighted, busy pathways and streets.

3. Familiarize yourself with the layout of the campus.

4. If you feel that someone is following you, go immediately to a nearby location where there are more people.

The University Police Department also have crime, fire, and arrest logs available on the web page of the school website.

Log on to police.csusb.edu if you would like to know the other services that are offered and what is happening around campus.