Campus burglary reports dropped significantly between the 2013 and 2014 school year, but Campus Security encourages students to remain cautious about the whereabouts of personal items.
According to the Annual Lipscomb Security Report, there were a reported 34 cases of burglary in 2013. The statistic decreased in 2014 with only seven reported cases. Most burglaries were illegal entries rather than breaking-and-entering.
“Burglary is often thought of as the breaking-and-entering type, but it can be something as simple as leaving your office door open and someone taking an item without your permission,” said Patrick Cameron, Assistant Director of Lipscomb Security. “It is a common misconception.”
With computers, iPhones and other valuables around every corner, it is easy for students to steal. Students can immediately take action if they discover their belongings have been taken.
“Call campus security,” Cameron said. “We can help file a report. If there are cameras around, we can look at footage to identify the thief.”
Cameron also said that it is possible to examine internet ports in order to track down laptops.
According to Cameron, a common place for a theft to occur is in library when a student leaves his or her seat. Lipscomb security encourages students to keep an eye on their purses, electronics and wallets.
However, there are several ways to track down the thief in the event of a stolen item.
“The ‘Find My iPhone’ feature is available on your iPhone and MacBook, so make sure it is installed,” Cameron said. “There are also a number of computer-tracking devices you can install for free.”
Having an electronic’s serial number available is another way to combat theft.
“If an item is stolen by somebody from off-campus and they pawn it, you have a way of proving it is yours,” Cameron said. “Serial numbers, identification numbers and other markings are important to have on your electronics so you can identify them.”
In addition to keeping an eye on belongings and installing tracking software, Campus Security encourages students to remain aware of their surroundings.
“Always trust your judgement if you feel someone or something is out of place,” Cameron said. “God has blessed us with a lot of abilities to see certain situations and to know when something feels right or does not. If you feel something is off, it probably is.”