Robbery violations are on an upward trend from 2012 to 2013, according to the Department of Public Safety’s annual Security and Fire Safety Report, released Wednesday.
While no robberies were reported in the residence halls, two were found on campus grounds. There were eight reported robberies on public property, which is up 38 percent from 2012.
The report includes items that are not reported in any police reports, such as disciplinary referrals that are issued through the university.
Six referrals for drug disciplinary actions were present on off-campus property – a 100 percent difference from 2011. Additionally, residence halls increased their numbers by two, going from 55 to 57 citations.
Marquette’s latest report stresses safety while walking around campus, noting that there is access to more than 450 blue light phones, LIMOs and escort services. As always, DPS also emphasized walking with another person after it gets dark.
These resources are available for the students, but it is up to them to use them.
Kelly Regan, a freshman in the College of Arts & Sciences, claims that for the most part she feels safe on campus. She also said that while DPS cannot predict when robberies or crimes will occur, she thinks more officers should be stationed around campus to help prevention.
Three new categories were added to the annual report: domestic violence, dating violence and stalking. Of the three, domestic violence was the most common, with three instances taking place in the residence halls.
Just as last year saw a decrease in the number of alcohol referrals, this year saw a 48 percent decrease of residence hall referrals, going from 722 to 345.
Maddie Malone, a freshman in the College of Health Sciences, said she feels like she regularly sees DPS officers around campus and feels safe.
“I see them all the time,” Malone said. “It makes me feel good to see them walking around. I feel like I am protected.”
Malone added that in an urban environment, crimes like robberies are inevitable. She said she takes comfort in the fact that even if she does not need DPS, it is accessible.
“If I need them, I can reach them easily.”
It is also notable that for the first time within the past two years, one weapon referral was also reported in the residence halls.
The report provides details on the rules and guidelines for staying safe and what to do in certain situations, and requests that students identify and help people who may be in trouble.
DPS Chief Paul Mascari did not respond to phone calls for comment by press time.
