KU Public Safety Office report: Crime down nearly 10 percent


LAWRENCE — The University of Kansas saw a nearly 10 percent decrease in crime in 2015, KU’s Public Safety Office announced today with the release of its annual crime statistics.

Public Safety handled 757 criminal offenses during 2015, down from 834 in 2014.

Property crimes, including criminal damage to property and burglary, were down, and thefts reported on campus were at a 10-year low.

The university continues to expand the use of closed-circuit security cameras across campus and also increase in the number of security officers employed on campus. New security officers were added to the department in August 2015 to assist KU Housing with security duties in McCarthy, Self and Oswald residence halls.

“The university administration has been very supportive of the increased use of technology, but employing more people to provide a security presence or actively patrol campus is also very helpful,” said Interim Chief of Police Chris Keary.

The largest increase was reported in the use of fake IDs.

“Even though we have no bars on campus, our police officers are finding students who show fake IDs during traffic stops or use them to check in at residence halls,” Keary said.  “Some are also discovered when found wallets and other property are turned into the department.” Officers are finding that many fake IDs were obtained over the Internet.

Violent crimes, defined by the FBI as murder, rape, robbery and aggravated assault, were down in all categories and remained less than 1 percent of all criminal offenses reported.

“While reported crime is down, it is still vital that everyone in the KU community understand that crime does happen on campus, and everyone should do their part to stop it,” Keary said.  “Remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings, lock your doors and report any suspicious activity or crimes that occur.” 

The KU Public Safety Office provides year-round law enforcement, security, emergency communications and emergency management for the Lawrence campus community.

A complete list of all offenses reported to the department from 2006 to 2015 can be found online.

Thu, 03/31/2016

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James Anguiano

Media Contacts

James Anguiano

KU Public Safety Office

785-864-5900