NCJ Number
143805
Journal
Journal of Security Administration Volume: 16 Issue: 1 Dated: (1993) Pages: 67-80
Date Published
1993
Length
14 pages
Annotation
In light of recent court rulings establishing potential university liability for crime victimization on campus and the Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act of 1990, the implementation and evaluation of campus security programs cannot be overlooked by college and university administrators.
Abstract
Research has confirmed that campus characteristics related to campus crime rates include density characteristics, locational factors, campus design, and academic quality. Many campuses have initiated crime prevention measures, such as upgrading lights around buildings and parking lots, installing blue light emergency telephones, and offering night escort services or frequent shuttles between campus and satellite parking lots. Some campuses have also addressed safety and security in terms of the physical landscape by minimizing shrubbery, while some campuses have incorporated appropriate security standards for the interior and exterior design of buildings. In addition, campuses have responded to crime and safety concerns by sponsoring educational and awareness programs. The 1990 Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act requires that institutions provide descriptive information about their security programs and policies, but it does not require institutions to monitor the level of program implementation or evaluate program impact. Nonetheless, adequate evaluation of campus security programs is essential; until campus administrators pay closer attention to program design, implementation, and evaluation, policies aimed at reducing campus crime may not achieve the desired goals. A framework is presented to help campus administrators identify problems and needs and develop effective security programs. 21 references and 6 endnotes