The 2015 edition of the Salt Lake Community College Crime Awareness and Annual Statistics Report was published in September.
The Department of Public Safety releases this data to keep students and faculty informed about issues and policies regarding their safety.
As stated in the report, the goal of DPS is to “maintain an environment where everyone can feel safe to visit, learn, and work.”
The data shows that Taylorsville-Redwood and South City campuses experience the highest crime rates. The other four campuses each had less than ten recorded crimes with Westpointe not having any at all.
DPS director Shane Crabtree attributes this to the high populations of the campuses.
The high crime rate at Library Square Campus is caused by crimes allegedly committed in the general vicinity of the campus. This includes the Salt Lake Public Library Square, which has a high homeless population.
The recorded rape and 35 liquor law violations did not occur at Library Square Campus and did not involve community college students, faculty or staff.
Larceny theft is the most common recorded crime.
According to the report, 61 thefts occurred at Taylorsville-Redwood Campus, down from 71 the year prior. However, South City Campus saw an increase in larceny thefts, rising from 38 in 2013 to 52 in 2014.
DPS is very firm that students should always be aware of their belongings. To raise awareness of this problem, the department recently implemented the “Gotcha” program.
Officers leave Post-it notes on unattended items that they find around campus. The note warns the owner about potential thefts and gives the advice to not leave your belongings unattended.
Crabtree credits the program with a decrease in larceny thefts.
According to the latest report, bicycle thefts are a significant problem. Bike racks are available at every campus and DPS strongly recommends the use of locks.
SLCC has also set up a registry service to assist law enforcement in the event of a theft.
Due to current world events, a mass shooting on campus is a common worry.
Utah Highway Patrol officers are stationed at Taylorsville-Redwood, South City, Jordan and Meadowbrook campuses and provide round-the-clock coverage. Five to six officers are employed at each campus with one or two actively on scene at all times.
West Valley, Library Square, Westpointe, Miller and Airport campuses have contracts with the Sandy City, Salt Lake City and West Valley City police departments to provide officers during specific hours.
DPS implores staff and students to not stress or worry about this scenario. DPS and officers train regularly for this type of situation, and regular trainings are held to inform staff about emergency procedures.
A video presentation is available in the library that details how best to handle an active shooter.
In the report, DPS advises students to never walk alone through the parking lot at night.
Use the buddy system and walk with a friend or classmate, and let someone know where you are going.
Have your keys out, ready and walk purposefully. Perhaps call someone while walking through the parking lot or pretend to talk to someone on your cell.
For students who take night classes, DPS suggests parking in a well-lit area of the lot. Never leave valuables visible in your car; either lock them in the trunk or leave them at home.
A parking lot escort service is available at Taylorsville-Redwood and South City campuses. Officers are willing to walk students to their car.
The Department of Public Safety advises students to call 911 first if you are the victim or witness a crime being committed. An emergency phone is located in the main thoroughfare of every campus.
For a non-emergency, dial 801-957-3800.
