Students at the Truax Campus reported 27 incidents of vehicles being intentionally damaged or having items stolen from them in campus parking lots during the fall semester.

While most of the incidents were discovered after the fact, Public Safety reported that one recent incident resulted in a short foot chase, where the suspects were caught in the act.

As the new semester begins, Public Safety reminds students that it is important to be cautious and to avoid potential mistakes.“There’s a spike in the beginning of the semester. New students, unfamiliar faces, and a variety of students from different communities are targeted,” says Sergeant Joe Steffen of Public Safety.

“These are crimes of opportunity. Leaving cars unlocked or purses, iPads, laptops, and other valuables uncovered are what they’re looking for,” said Steffen.

There are officers actively patrolling Downtown, Truax, and the Southside campuses during and after school hours, but students should take steps to protect their belongings and vehicle. Public Safety recommends that students:

• Refrain from parking overnight or for lengthy periods of time.
• Always lock the vehicle.
• Park in well-lit areas.
• Keep valuables hidden.
• Don’t leave weapons/firearms in vehicle.

Students should call the Public Safety office at 608-245-2222 for any concerns, questions, or if any suspicious behavior has been observed.