The Student Newspaper of Highline College

More students on campus pose safety challenges

Nyrelle Vital Staff Reporter Jan 13, 2022

Highline students will need to pay more attention to their surroundings with more students on campus this quarter, said the college’s director of Public Safety.

For Winter Quarter, Highline has increased its number of live, in-person classes, and more students have chosen that option.  But that means more people and more cars on campus, leading to the potential of more crime. 

Public Safety Director David Menke said the purpose of his team is to ensure the safety of the students and campus. But since Highline is an open campus it’s harder for them to protect every inch of the campus, he said.

Students are often focused on their phones when walking on campus, which makes them less alert to what’s going on around them, he said. 

Another new challenge now that more students and vehicles are on campus, Menke said, is  that the chances of auto burglary are higher.

“Last quarter we saw an uptick in catalytic converter theft. And unfortunately it happens quick,  the average time being 3-5 minutes and even an amateur can do it,” said Menke.

Some tips that Public Safety recommends include that if you have a Toyota Prius, they are highly targeted, and if you have an SUV and or truck, since those vehicles are lifted higher up off the ground, they are also at risk. Always lock your car and secure your belongings. 

Also, avoid leaving anything eye-catching in your vehicle like a wallet, cash and or jewelry, Menke said. 

Reporting a crime depends on the nature of the crime, Menke said. 

“If someone would be the victim of a crime, if it’s against a person then they should call 911 prior to calling Public Safety,” Menke said. “If it’s a property crime, go ahead and call Public Safety. While waiting, leave the crime scene alone.”

Lastly 

​​Therefore, always be aware of your surroundings. We know it’s very easy to be on your phone when walking from class to class or from your class to your vehicle but by being aware of your surroundings you could help lower the rate of property crime.

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