While I appreciate the attention to crime prevention and overall campus security that Wednesday’s editorial brought, it is worth noting that many different tools have to be used in fighting and preventing crime. One of the most obvious tools is patrol presence. As the editorial mentioned, ACUPD has attempted to increase staffing levels and has increased its patrol visibility recently. On a side note regarding patrol tactics, ACUPD does more than patrol the neighborhood and campus perimeter, we actively patrol the interior areas via foot patrol, vehicle patrol and bike patrol.

Another tool that has become a common and proven tool in the crime prevention arsenal is electronic video systems. The editorial asked a hard question as to why the university has not moved further in the use of video systems on campus. It should be noted that ACU has already begun this process, but starting a campus wide system from scratch makes for a longer journey that some would apparently prefer.

The last tool in crime prevention and perhaps the most important, is awareness. Unlike patrol fleet vehicles, patrol salaries or elaborate camera systems, awareness is free. Also, awareness is the responsibility of every member of the ACU community.  Be aware, be alert and notify ACUPD when you see something that looks suspicious or unusual. Remember this: Preventing crime is easier than solving crime. No amount of patrol staffing or electronic surveillance can ever replace the efforts of a community that takes ownership in itself and stays aware of what is happening around them. ACUPD would love to prevent as many crimes as possible, but we need your help. Sure, the university has some responsibility to do what it can, but be careful to not let the university’s responsibility become a substitute for the community awareness we should all contribute to.

Jimmy Ellison
Chief of Police