Prevent Crimes of Opportunity

On the campus of Macalester College, most thefts are accurately identified as crimes of opportunity. Personal property is left unguarded in places where the opportunity is ripe for it to be taken. And unfortunately, suggestions such as this one, that encourage individuals to take responsibility for their personal property, fall on deaf ears until it happens to you.

Please realize that no institution can afford to staff enough security officers to relieve each of us from our individual responsibility to prevent the theft of our personal property whenever possible.

Any item of value which is left unsecured, such as on a desk or in an unlocked desk drawer, is vulnerable to theft. No theft is justifiable regardless of how easy something is to take; however, the responsibility to protect personal property belongs to the owner.

Help prevent crimes of opportunity. Ensure that your personal valuables are secure! If you see or encounter strangers or unusual behavior, call Security immediately at 6555 or 6278.

If you have questions or comments, call or email Terry Gorman at 6218.

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April 2002