
The University of New Mexico
NEWS RELEASE
Media contact: Lt. Patrick Davis; 249-8304
September 25, 2007
UNM Releases 2006 Crime Statistics
The University of New Mexico annual crime statistics report shows some fluctuation over the three-year reporting period, but statistically, violent crime on campus remains low while property crimes continue to be higher.
UNM Police compile the statistics annually in compliance with the federal Clery Law, which is administered by the U.S. Department of Education and requires colleges and universities to release three years of crime statistics for homicide/manslaughter, sex offenses, robbery, burglary, motor vehicle theft, arson, hate crimes and aggravated assault. In addition, the number of arrests for alcohol, drug and weapons violations is reported.
For the past three years, UNM had zero homicides or hate crimes. Violent crimes such as robbery and aggravated assault dropped in 2006. Sex offenses increased from one to three. Auto theft and burglary increased, mirroring statistics in the greater community.
Liquor law violations dropped significantly, attributed to UNM’s zero tolerance policy for alcohol violations and proactive measures implemented by UNM Police and the Dean of Students Office.
“UNM's student population changes by about 25 percent every year as new students enter and others graduate, which substantially impacts fluctuations in UNM's reported crimes from year to year,” says UNM Police Chief Kathy Guimond.
City environment and population density impact the amount of crime urban universities experience, and therefore it tends to be higher than for predominately rural universities. UNM has about 40,000 students, employees and visitors on campus on any given week day.
UNM traditionally experiences more property crime than violent crime, says the chief.
“Due in large part to our open academic environment and our ever-changing population, the campus community is often very trusting,” Guimond says. “This results in opportunities for people to commit property crimes.”
Guimond says UNM's proactive efforts also help identify more crimes as well as being a deterrent. Police speak to students and parents throughout summer orientation. UNM does crime analysis and data sharing with area law enforcement.
Newer safety initiatives include an educational presentation for sororities, fraternities and campus organizations, a dedicated training session for UNM staff so they can serve as “eyes and ears” for police and consolidation of police and security services. The campus has emergency “blue light” phones and a 24-hour campus escort program.
www.unm.edu