For a crime to be committed, three elements must be present: desire, ability and opportunity. A potential criminal must want to commit a crime (desire), have the capacity to complete the offense (ability), and locate a potential target (opportunity). Influencing the first two of those three components is unlikely since we have little control over the actions of others. However, if we deny a potential criminal the opportunity to accomplish the intended act, the crime cannot be committed. This is especially true of property crimes such as thefts of personal belongings from lockers, classrooms and vehicles. Unlocked vehicles, unsecure lockers, and unlocked or open residence hall rooms create opportunities for crime. In fact, a recurring theme in an overwhelming number of thefts reported to MCC’s Department of Public Safety in recent weeks was improperly secured property.
Small items that can be easily concealed are the items most commonly taken. In today’s technological world, personal computing devices and cellular telephones worth several hundred dollars are frequently left in unlocked compartments or unattended public areas. Wallets and cash are also common targets. Remember, plastic is the new currency. A credit or debit card in the wrong hands can wreak havoc on your bank account and credit rating. Replacing a credit card, driver’s license, laptop computer, and cellular telephone as well as a host of other documents or devices can be costly, time-consuming and frustrating. In many cases, it is also avoidable.
Criminals look for target-rich environments. If you remove the temptation, the aspiring criminal will move on to another location. Denying a thief the opportunity to steal makes for a safer campus.
A few tips on how you can reduce the chance of being a thief’s victim:
ALWAYS lock up your personal space, office, and vehicle when you are away regardless of how long it will be before you return. Theft from an unlocked vehicle or locker can happen very quickly.
NEVER leave valuables unattended in public areas such as the library or a classroom.
NEVER leave your purse, wallet, or other valuables exposed when not in use or under your immediate control. If you must leave them, store them out of sight in a safe place such as the trunk of your vehicle rather than on the front seat and visible by anyone walking by.
In addition to the above tips, you are encouraged to utilize the Department of Public Safety’s Operation ID program. This service engraves your valuables with a distinct identifiable number which can aid in the recovery and return of items to you.
As always, if you have any questions regarding this or any other crime prevention tips, do not hesitate to contact the Department of Public Safety at 292-2912. For additional information on our Operation ID service, please contact Community Policing Officer Charles DiSalvo at <mailto:cdisalvo@monroecc.edu>.
Kevin A. Hall
Department of Public Safety
11/10/2014 |