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Contact: Chris Keary, Office of Public Safety, (785) 864-5900.

KU crime rate falls 12 percent; decline is 4th in row

TEXT LAWRENCE -- The number of criminal offenses reported on the University of Kansas Lawrence campus has fallen by more than a third over the last four years.

Statistics released today by the KU Public Safety Office show the number of criminal offenses reported dropped 12 percent in 2000, the fourth straight annual decline.

There were 956 criminal offenses reported on campus in 2000, down from 1,094 in 1999, 1,206 in 1998 and 1,438 in 1997.

Property crimes such as burglary, theft and criminal damage to property accounted for the greatest number of crimes reported. However, each of those categories has declined in recent years. Violent crime continued to be a small percentage -- less than one percent -- of all crime reported.

A full report of all crimes reported from 1997 to 2000 is available at www.ku.edu/~kucops. A list of KU crime alerts and the daily crime log are also available online.

Major Chris Keary, assistant director of public safety, cited several reasons for the decline.

"We believe some of the decline can be attributed to the crime prevention programs we present on campus," Keary said. "By talking to all incoming students, many of whom are new to the college experience, and then reinforcing these messages of crime prevention throughout the year, we hope to instill habits and traits that aid in the reduction of crime on campus."

This, coupled with the day-to-day efforts of the KU public safety officers, helps reduce the amount of crime on campus, he said. During the last year officers arrested several auto burglars in the act of breaking into cars on campus. Using information from KU Crime Stoppers, officers were also able to identify and arrest the person involved in a shooting at the Burge Union in January.

The Public Safety Office also recognizes the importance of the timely release of information about crimes that occurred on campus through KU crime alerts and the daily crime log.

"It's our belief that a well-informed community provides for an overall awareness that is helpful in the reduction of crime within the community," Keary said. "The university administration has shown strong support for the department's efforts in getting students, staff, faculty and visitors to be aware and to do their part in making this a safer campus."

"While the Public Safety Office is pleased that crime is down on campus, we caution that students, faculty and staff should continue to be vigilant against crime," Keary said.

"Everyone on this campus should take steps to keep from being included in next year's crime statistics."

Safety tips from the office to help reduce chances of becoming a victim include:

 • Report all crimes.

 • Report any suspicious activity or security concerns.

 • At night walk in well-lit areas and with a friend, if possible.

 • Never leave books or other personal property unattended in a public place.

 • Record serial numbers for property such as bicycles, computers and stereo equipment and keep in a safe place.