The Ball State Police have received nine reports of vandalized vehicles since Aug. 20. Five of these reportedly happened to cars parked in the stadium lots. In most cases, windows were broken or the cars were left unlocked.
"In comparison to previous years the rate of vandalism so far is about the same," said Randy Rector, a detective for University Police.
The University Police said acts of vandalism are hard to prevent because most are random, and often take place quickly and go unnoticed.
"I feel like I should move my car," freshman Carrie Powell, who parks her car in the stadium lot, said.
University Police said they are focusing additional patrol on the stadium lot and other areas of increased theft in an effort to prevent offenses and apprehend the offenders.
"Knowing that they are there makes me feel a little better," Powell said. "But since I don't know how often they are out there or what they're doing to stop vandalism, it still makes me wonder."
University Police suggest that students not bring their car to school unless absolutely necessary.
"If the vandal is caught in the act, charges are filed and they are immediately jailed," Rector said. "However, very few vandals are caught."
University Police Vehicle Crime Prevention Tips:
1. Lock your vehicle and pocket the keys.
2. Do not leave items such as wallets, purses, checkbooks, backpacks and other valuable items in view. Take them with you or secure them in a glove box or trunk.
3. If your vehicle sound system is equipped with a removable faceplate, be sure that you take the faceplate with you.
. Window decals which advertise a quality sound system also serve to identify vehicles which are prime targets for victimization. Consider removing the decals.
5. Individuals who break into vehicles do so after looking inside and seeing something that they want to steal. The key to preventing this type of victimization is to ensure that valuable items are not in plain view.
6. If you notice someone loitering around vehicles, peering into windows, or other suspicious behavior, please contact the University Police immediately by dialing 285-1111 or 911.
Source: Asst. Chief Robert Fey with the BSU Police Department
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