By Lana Hollerud

Crime Victims Resource Center

School has been in session for several months now, and your college dorm may feel like home, but your college campus may not be as safe as you may believe.

The false sense of security felt by some college students can lead to property crimes such as burglary and theft. Burglaries that occur are mostly crimes of opportunity involving unattended property, especially in unlocked dorm rooms. Research indicates that working or studying alone (especially after dark), late night or early morning activities, having access to cash, and the presence of alcohol or drugs, are situations that put students at greater risk for more serious crimes such as assault and sexual assault.

Every student’s involvement is important to the prevention of crime on campus, and in the community. Campus security or law enforcement cannot be everywhere at once. Their success in addressing and reducing criminal behavior is enhanced by your recognizing and reporting incidents of suspicious or criminal activity.

It is important to remember that if a crime is not reported to the appropriate authorities the perpetrator cannot be held accountable. Not reporting crimes allows the perpetrator to commit additional (and perhaps more serious) crimes.

For those students or parents who are interested in the issue of college safety there are some important questions to ask the college administration such as: What is the college doing to provide a safe campus? What office or official investigates an allegation of assault or sexual assault?​ And, what prevention programs are available to educate students about safety?

The Crime Victims Resource Center is available to provide advocacy and support to any crime victim in Mower County. As always, our services are provided free of charge. Please call 507 437-6680 for more information on the Crime Victim’s Resource Center.