Editor,
I am writing regarding the lack of security around campus parking lots.
During the first week of school, my vehicle was broken into and several items of value were stolen. I filed a report with the campus police and have yet to hear anything about my valuables.
My friend's truck was stolen recently from the parking structure, and the thefts are only becoming more frequent. Students that live on campus pay a generous amount for housing costs and parking permits. But there is nothing being done to lessen the serious crime problem that UNM has had lately. There is nothing more frustrating than to watch your hard earned possessions disappear.
The University has a responsibility to its staff and students to provide a safe atmosphere, both day and night. This includes parking lots and garages, not just the "high traffic" areas of campus. With the recent number of vehicle thefts increasing, something needs to be done.
While the solution may not be easy or cheap, we cannot let this problem continue any longer than it already has. The University needs to meet with UMN police to establish a game plan. Whether security cameras are installed in the parking lots and structure, or a full-time guard is hired to patrol during the evenings, this problem must be solved quickly.
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As another resident to the UNM dorm, my vehicle was broken into and I lost a fair amount of valuables. Had there been a police patrol or some sort of security in the parking structure, this would not have happened. I was parked less than 15 feet from the entrance to the parking structure and security guard office.
My vehicle was broken into on Sunday evening or Monday morning Oct. 22, and since then, I have counted numerous broken windows on the ground in the parking structure and around the Hokona dorm parking area.
When I filed a police report the officer told me that UNM police do not respond to car alarms anymore because of how numerous they are and that they cannot respond to all of them.
Since my vehicle was broken into, I have come across a dozen or so people who have had their vehicles broken into or know of people who have had their vehicles broken into.
Action needs to be taken quickly before the problem becomes even worse.
Corey Brown and Travis Cochran
UNM students
