Sinclair Community College has seen an increase in crime during the last year but as a result of increased attendance, according to Campus Police Chief Charles Gift.
“Crime is slightly higher than it was last year, however Sinclair is the safest place in the Miami Valley,” Gift said. “Basically, the crime rate is paralleling the increase in students. So, it makes sense. The more students you have, the more crime you’ll have.”
Gift said that Sinclair has a very low number of what are referred to as “violent crimes.” He said a burglary would be an example of a violent crime.
According to the information Sinclair released as part of the Cleary Act, Sinclair had one aggravated assault, one robbery and one “non-forcible sex offense” in the 2008-2009 period.
Gift said that nearly all crime at Sinclair are “crimes of opportunity” that occur when a person on the campus leaves an item unattended.
“Most of the crime that is here at Sinclair is theft of unattended property,” Gift said. “You leave your laptop on a desk in the Tartan Marketplace, walk in to buy something, come back and it’s not there. Or, you fall asleep in the library and you wake up and your books are gone.”
In cases involving electronics, Gift said that keeping the serial number is pivotal. He recommends everyone at Sinclair keep track of the serial numbers on all of their electronics.
In general, Gift said to be aware and that people should keep their property with them at all times. Also, he suggested helping others out by not letting them walk off without something.
“Tell your friends to be careful,” Gift said.
Because of the campus being open to the public, it is harder for Campus Police to fight crime. Gift said that anyone who sees suspicious activity should call 512-2700 to reach Campus Police so they can investigate.
New construction projects are now including input from Campus Police to help fight crime through environmental design, according to Gift. An example would be providing better nighttime lighting in the Building 10 plaza. Gift said he feels those efforts have been successful.