Crime drop at SU attributed to several factors

Crime down on Southern University campus and a change in the definition of burglary may be the cause of it.
In 2008, Southern University was hit hard with a total of 106 reported burglaries and a total of 24 drug related arrests. The 2010 statistics show a total of 17 burglaries were committed and 17 drug related arrests were made.
The amount of burglaries declined significantly since 2008 due to the change of definition and the implementation of advanced security technology. A burglary is now defined as a forced entry rather than something being reported as stolen or missing. 
“A robbery is now defined and characterized as a threat or force being used during the crime,” said Sgt. Kevin Johnson, SUPD Deputy of Administration.
The annual security report was released last month and statistics show SUPD taking a bite out of crime in problematic crime areas that occur on campus. The report lists all crimes that were committed since 2008 through 2010.  
“Most of the problems that happen in the dormitories are labeled as thefts and once we started installing advanced security in the dorms for better safety the numbers went down. If you can’t prove someone broke into your room, it will be considered a theft,” continued Sgt. Johnson.
The stats also show that sexual offenses at SU are rarely reported. These crimes consist of rape, statutory rape, pedophilia activities, and sexual assault.
“This is what’s reported to us, we had one (rape) reported in 2008 and fortunately we had none reported in 2009 & 2010,” informed Johnson.
The annual security report only lists the last three years prior to the current year.
“We are currently working on the 2011 crime statistics now but it will not be done until the end of the year,” said Johnson. ”We also have a log on our website but when it comes down to the annual report we follow the mandates set forth by the law which orders us to give a three year report by October 12.”
Students must continue to be careful to watch and beware of their surroundings. According to the crime alerts posted on the SUPD website, three armed robberies have been committed this year thus far and all are currently under investigation. Two of the robberies were held in the apartment 100 building towards the rear of campus, the most recent occurred on September 2, 2011.
One of the robberies was easily conducted due to an unlocked door. “We urge students to check whose at the door before opening it and doors should be locked when the apartment is occupied or not,” informed Cpt. Sandra Knighton, SUPD former interim chief of police .
Last month, Chancellor James Llorens appointed Captain Ronald Stevens as SUPD’s new chief of police. Capt. Stevens plans to hold an open house between students and officers to discuss several issues later this year. 
“We’re always striving to do our best. We’ll never be in a position where we can’t hold up to our ​obligations,” informed Capt. Stevens. 
When asked about the overall status of the SUPD Capt. Stevens replied, ”We should be graded by the people rather than rating ourselves. So when we have our meeting we’re looking forwrd to​ working with students, faculty, and staff,” expressed Capt. Stevens.
Stevens declined to comment on his views pertaining to the new Tobacco- Free policy announced last month but he is committed to doing his job.
“I support whatever he (Chancellor Llorens) has to do. We are the enforcers of the policies,” explained.” Capt. Stevens.
The SUPD encourages for all students or anyone who may have information on any crime to contact the authorities.
“If you have knowledge of any crime please come forth and share the information confidentially because this is how most of our crimes are solved,” concluded Sgt. Johnson.