Thieves target parked cars on campus
When you park your car on campus, lock your doors and
don’t leave valuables in sight.
hat’s the message campus security is sending
to vehicle owners who park in UVic lots. Although crime
is lower on campus than in surrounding communities because
of regular security patrols, theft still happens.
Recently, a string of break-and-enters into vehicles
parked in campus lots occurred during daytime hours.
“Over a two-and-a-half day span, six thefts were
reported,” says Allison Eddy, personal safety
co-ordinator with campus security services. “In
one incident, the two young suspects were confronted
by the owner of a vehicle, who was pepper-sprayed before
he chased them away. Vehicle owners should be more aware
that these crimes can take place on campus.”
Eddy says that thieves tend to work campus parking
lots for few days and leave before campus security and
the police know of their presence. Most theft from cars
is through unlocked doors and open windows, which are
open invitations to thieves to help themselves to your
belongings.
Last year, 27 incidents of theft from cars were reported
on campus. Eddy says the number fluctuates from year
to year, but for the most part, theft from cars is decreasing.
“Campus security officers step up patrol in certain
areas at certain times they know are most likely to
be hit and will stop suspicious people to inquire about
their presence on campus and escort them out if necessary,”
she says.
There are several ways you can lower your risk. Always
lock your vehicle, even if you’re gone for only
a few minutes. Leave nothing tempting in view, including
gym bags or spare change. Park in well-lit and popular
areas. Install a car alarm and engrave stereo equipment
with your driver’s license number.
If you observe what you believe to be a theft in progress,
don’t approach or pursue the suspects. Take note
of their physical de-scription and direction and mode
of travel. Then call 911 and let the police take care
of it.
If you have any information on the recent thefts from
vehicles parked on campus, call Crimestoppers at 386-TIPS.
