Crime Data in the USA

University fined for misreporting crime data.

The Chronicle of Higher Education has a piece about the University of Texas at Arlington being fined for improperly classifying and reporting a number of crimes which took place on its campus:

For misclassifying crimes and underreporting disciplinary actions, the U.S. Department of Education has fined the University of Texas at Arlington $82,500, a penalty the institution is appealing.

The department imposed the fine last month under the federal campus-crime reporting law known as the Clery Act, each violation of which can cost an institution $27,500. According to a review by the department in 2011, the Arlington campus had improperly classified a forcible sex offense as an assault and an aggravated assault as an assault of a family member. Both crimes occurred in 2008.

Also that year, the department found, the university excluded 27 liquor, drug, and weapons violations—classified as “disciplinary actions”—from crime statistics that by law must be submitted to federal officials and distributed publicly each year. On that count, the department imposed a third $27,500 fine.

Similar fines have just been levied against Yale:

Yale failed to report a total of four forcible sex offenses in its campus crime statistics for 2001 and 2002, according to an April 19 letter from Mary E. Gust, director of administrative actions and appeals service group at the DOE. As a result, the department is fining the university $27,500 for each offense, the letter said. The Connecticut Ivy League university also received a $27,500 fine for failing to include seven required policy statements in its annual crime reports, and another $27,500 for not including crime statistics from Yale-New Haven Hospital in its annual campus crime data.

It always surprises me that there is such a strict federal requirement on crime reporting at US universities. Given the potentially negative consequences though it is perhaps hardly surprising that there are occasional errors in classification. And the crimes on US campuses do tend to be significantly worse than those here, especially given the availability of guns at some institutions (as noted in this previous post).

How long before HESA start collecting this data in the UK?

True Crime on Campus §28: gas!

More true crime on campus:

Strange things continue to happen on campus. Our Security staff always respond professionally, even when faced with rude taxi drivers and distressed waterfowl. Not to mention possible gas leaks.

07:50 Security Patrol stopped a taxi who was driving the wrong way up Cut Through Lane and on speaking stopping the vehicle the Officer was subjected to rudeness from the driver.

20:00 Security attended a report that a tap would not switch off in the Humanities building. On arrival it was established that this was the hot water tap. Security therefore isolated the hot water supply. The helpdesk have been informed.

A swan? Go on!

1720 Report of a distressed swan in the Road adjacent to Melton Hall Security attended and moved the swan onto the grassed area. The swan appeared to be uninjured and was eating the grass. Officers checked later on the Swan it had left the area.

1309 Report of two children throwing eggs at Melton Hall Security attended the children ran from the Campus.

1330 Patrol Security Officers contacted Grounds Staff after a University Shuttle Bus spilled Oil on Cut Through Lane before breaking down on Beeston Lane.

2315 Report of the theft of underwear from the Laundry in Newark Hall. Security attended, Police informed.

1630 Fire alarm in Hall – cause of activation was found to be burnt food in a microwave causing a large amount of smoke to fill the area where the microwave was situated. Security attended, the area was vented and the Microwave unplugged. A student admitted causing the incident and will be reported to the Warden.

2015 Request for assistance for a person who was locked in the Fitness Centre, University Park. The person stated that they had been using the Centre and when they finished the Staff had locked the building and left.

17:15 Security received a report of the smell of gas from a lab in the Nottingham Medical School. On arrival the staff informed Security that this was a regular occurrence when the gas taps were used. The room was vented by opening windows and the smell subsided. Security advised staff not to use the gas taps in the room until these had been fixed or replaced. No further action by Security.

15:20 Security reported two youths with a large dog outside the Exchange building jumping on the bike shield covers. Security informed the youths that their behaviour was unacceptable and asked them to leave. The youths were abusive towards Security but did leave the Campus.

08:51 Security received a fire alarm activation from Computer Science for a room that did not exist. The Porter has reported this problem and the Helpdesk informed. The building was checked and the alarm panel was reset.

True Crime on Campus §27: happy new year

More true crime on campus: new year, new incidents.

Whilst it might have been a bit quieter over the festive period there is always something going on to test our always busy Security team:

1135 Report of a spillage of vegetable oil outside Portland Building Security attended and taped the area off to ensure that no one slipped in the oil.

0233 Report of a student with an injury to her ankle in Hall. Security attended the student had been running in high heels and slipped over in the City Centre. As a precaution the Student was taken to the QMC. The Warden is to be informed.

13:50 Security were called to the Trent Building as a staff member reported two parts missing from a coffee machine. Security to follow up.

04:50 Security assistance requested by Hall Tutor as 3 students had removed the furniture from their rooms and built rooms outside. Hall Warden informed

0345 Security received a complaint from a Med Link Delegate in Hall complaining that they were too hot in their room. Security attended and turned the radiator down and moved the bed away from the radiator.

1840 Report of Two Students 45 feet up a tree on the Downs. Security attended the areas was checked no sign of students up trees.

2140 Report of a “smelly blower “at DLRC. Security attended. The hot air curtain at the entrance to the building was thought to smelling. Officers could not detect any issue with it.

1705 Report that a person had fallen over adjacent to the Maths Building. Security attended. The person was a four year child who was with their parent. The parent refused any advice from the Officers and left.

1207 Security Officers observed a Hopper Bus drive across a Pedestrian crossing on Keighton Hill whilst pedestrians were using it – some of them had to jump out of the way. Officers followed the Bus until it stopped on Beeston lane. Officers then spoke to the driver who stated he did not see the pedestrians.

2316 Report that a Tutor had been Rugby tackled by a student outside the Hall. The Student was part of the American Football team who were having a Social event. Details of two of the group have been taken and will be passed onto the Warden.

1030 Report of the lift not working with a person trapped in Portland Building. The Building Attendant and Security Officers attended. The button was pushed which started the lift working and released the person.

Real Crime in the USA

An unhappy league table

This really is true crime on campus. Business Insider has produced a report on what it describes as the “Most Dangerous Colleges In America”. Drawing on FBI data, the piece produces a league table of the worst affected institutions in terms of crime. It makes grim reading. However, the results are contested by some of the institutions named who observe not only that some of the crimes happen in areas nearby their campuses and not on them but also that the reporting of crime is something that they encourage in order to improve detection and clear up. In other words, the development of a league table is not helpful or fair. The report notes:

The FBI’s Unified Crime Report identified 2,696 violent crime incidents and 87,160 property crime incidents on college campuses in 2011. This is a controversial report due to, among other reasons, how some colleges include data on non-campus areas. Nonetheless, the FBI considers it a valid way to “shed light on crime in schools, colleges, and universities.”

To put the data in context, we ranked the most dangerous colleges. We averaged crime data per capita from 2008 to 2011 for schools with enrollment over 10,000. Schools were ranked based on a combination of violent crime rank and property crime rank, with violent crime weighted four times higher

I won’t list the institutions here but I do think the data shows a huge difference in the nature of crime on campuses in the UK and the USA.

True Crime on Campus §25: Cowabunga

More true crime on campus:

Things can get pretty tricky on campus sometimes. However, our outstanding Security staff are usually up for any kind of challenge – no matter how bizarre:

0030 Report of a person being let into Hall via Fire Escape door. Security attended and the area was searched – the person could not be located. Another male was located asleep in a corridor who was not a resident of the Hall – the male is a Student who lives off Campus. He was asked to make his way home.

1140 Report of leaflets having been strewn around the corridors of Willoughby Hall and Trent Building Quad.

14.08.12 A Security Officer who lives in a University rented house at Highfields Sports Centre arrived home on the 13.08.12 to find that a bungalow that is being built adjacent to the rented property had been damaged by the Air Ambulance helicopter hovering over it causing part of the newly built walls to collapse. Details to Estates. Contractor is following up with Notts/Lincs Ambulance.

A collapsed wall really not at all similar to the ones in question

1345 Report of two males placing bags with Penalty Charge Notice on them on vehicles parked on University Park. Inside the bags is an advertisement for a party in Watford. The bags are similar in colour to those used by Security Officers. These bags however have left marks on windscreens which is difficult to remove. Security are to follow up.

0210 Report of a Student having vomited due to excessive drinking. Security attended the Student was found to be in bed asleep.

0900 Report of a Dog in a vehicle parked in Trent East Car Park. Security Officers attended – the windows of the vehicle were down slightly and there was food and water for the dog in the vehicle. The owner was spoken to she decided to take the dog home.

0045 Report of a Student lying in Bushes adjacent to Hall Security attended.

13:33 Security received a phone call from a worried parent that two 12 year old girls had gone missing. Security Officers searched the area where they were last seen and found them outside of the DHL Building. Security notified the parent and then stayed with the girls until the parent arrived.

2030 Security took a Student to the QMC for treatment to his ankle. The Student had injured himself a week before but the pain had increased during the day. The Student is a resident of Florence Boot Hall the Hall Warden to be informed.

11:30 Security removed a publicity sign from the bottom of Portland Hill advertising the Fun Fair being held at Highfields Park. The sign was returned to the owners and they were advised that they cannot advertise on University property.

16:40 Security attended a request for a first aider on Jubilee Campus. A temporary member of staff had spilt a hot cup of coffee over her torso causing a burn. First Aid was administered and she declined any further assistance. Accident report sent to Safety Office.

0050 Security stopped a Student regarding a broken window. The Student admitted being part of a group that had broken the window. Warden to be informed – Long Eaton Glass called out.

1050 Report of a male dressed in pyjamas in Nottingham Medical School. Security attended and spoke to the male. The male stated that he was waiting for a Taxi. He then walked around the Building towards the Main Entrance. Hospital Security informed.

1205 Report of a blocked and flooded toilet in Pope Building. Security attended. On arrival Officers discovered a urinal had been blocked with paper. Officer cleared the paper and cleaned the floor returning the toilets to normal use.

Aren’t we supposed to be the good guys?

0048 Report of a person dressed in green, possibly a Ninja Turtle, in Portland Building attempting to gain entry to the Portland Cafe. Security attended. The cafe doors had been forced open but at present it is not clear if anything had been stolen. Security are to follow up.

True Crime on Campus §24: Hide and Seek

More true crime on campus: bet you can’t find me

Bizarre things can happen on campus. Fortunately, our excellent Security staff are more than able to cope with just about anything. Even when it involves students hiding from them:

1230 Report of a Contractor working at a Hall had closed the boot of their own vehicle and struck themselves on the head causing a small cut to their head. Security attended – the Hall Manager is to complete the on line accident form.

2030 Report that a student had banged his head on a door frame in Hall. Security attended and checked the student. The student had a mark on his head. The Hall Staff completed an Accident form.

1849 Report of two students using a deodorant spray to set off the fire alarm in Hall. Both students were spoken to and told that they would be reported to the Hall Warden.

0300 Report of a student naked and trying to vomit in their shower in Ancaster Hall. The Hall Tutor requested that Security to help get the student out of the shower as he was cold and naked.

2020 Patrol Security Officers stopped a male who was kicking and moving cones in Trent Building Quad. The male was very abusive and would not stop swearing at Officers. The male who had no connection to the University identified himself as a serving solider. Given the level of abuse Security Management will be contacting the Army.

18:00 While shutting the windows in room A42 Sir Clive Granger building the blinds fell down in one of the windows. Help desk informed.

1930 Report that a Professor had contacted the QMC Security stating he thought he had left a portable heater on in his Office. QMC Security did not have access to the area University Security attended and also could not access the area. As QMC Security had not taken a contact number for the Professor there was no way to contact him. Security Officers monitored the area during the night and are to follow up today. The Office was within the Hospital and not part of the Medical School.

1000 Report of a student with an injury to their ankle. Security attended and took the student to Cripps Health Centre. The injury was caused according to the student by her stepping funny.

14:40 Security attended the Atrium on Jubilee Campus after receiving a report from a member of staff that several youths were causing a nuisance by running in and out of the building. The youths complied when asked to leave the Campus.

0415 Report of a male sleeping in a computer room in the Trent Building. Security attended. The male was a student who had fallen asleep while working. The student made his way home.

2010 Report of a large number of students running around the Trent Building. Security Officers attended. The students explained that they were playing hide and seek. The Hide and Seek Society President was found by Officers and spoken to. Officers conducted a search of the building and located all the other hiding students. I understand that Officers declined their turn to go and hide.

True Crime on Campus §23: the ultimate discovery

More true crime on campus:

Our Security staff discover the strangest things happening on campus. Fortunately, they are generally unflappable and respond pragmatically to every challenge. Even when presented with the ultimate answer:

16:34 Security received a report from a member of staff that a person unknown was looking at the lead on the roof of the DHL. Security to follow up.

23:35 Security discovered a conference delegate sleeping in his car on Jubilee Campus near the Business School North. Security advised he went to see the porter to get a room but he insisted he stayed in his car.

1645 Report that an unknown male had got himself wedged in the revolving door at the Portland Building. One of the glass panels in the door was over flexed causing it to shatter. Security attended but the male had left the area without waiting to be spoken to. Help Desk informed.

0910 Residents of the BASF House contacted Security as they were concerned about a BEKO Fridge that was in the house given the recent issues with some of these products. Security attended and checked the serial numbers and confirmed that the one in the house was not one that was of concern.

2100 Report of a male in a van looking in skips at the Halls of Residence. Security attended – the male was spoken to and told to leave Campus.

00:45 While on patrol Security noticed two males fishing on the far side of the Djanogly Learning Centre on Jubilee Campus. Security pointed out that there were signs stating ‘No Fishing’. They agreed to leave Campus and stated that did not keep any fish they had caught and put them back.

15:44 Security received a report from a member of the public that they could hear screaming from the new build along Beeston Lane by the Sports Centre. Security attended, checked the area and questioned the builders but nothing was found.

1625 Patrol Security stopped a student riding a motorcycle without a Helmet on Cut Through Lane. The rider was spoken to and told that he would be reported for the offence. The rider stated he forgot to put the helmet on.

0600 Patrol Security discovered two horses from the fields at the rear of the Vet School loose on Lancroft Lane. Security put the horses back into the fields. Security are to speak to the Vet School re this.

2310 Conference Delegates contacted Security from Sherwood Hall to say they were too hot. Delegates were advised to open their windows.

1330 Report of a suspicious package in Lenton and Wortley Hall. Security attended – the package was found to contain herbs to aid sleep.

0755, 1323 A male contacted the Security Control room stating that he had discovered the meaning of life and urgently needed to speak to a Professor in Physics. After discussing the matter at length with Security the person’s details have been passed onto the Police to carry out a welfare check.

True Crime on Campus §22: Surprise, surprise

More true crime on campus: some surprising occurrences 

Surprising things can happen on campus. Fortunately, it’s hard to catch our ever-vigilant Security team unawares…

07:15 Security received a report of a delivery driver stuck in the car park barriers at EMCC. Security attended and resolved the matter.

0500 Patrol Security spoke to an Ambulance crew outside Derby Hall. They had been called to a Student who had injured themselves while sleeping. Officers were not able to obtain further details as to the injury the Warden is to be informed.

02:30 Security at Sutton Bonington reported that there was a small group of sheep that were on the loose along the road near Future Crops. Other staff members assisted with rounding the sheep together.

1115 Report of a male sleeping in a corridor of Cripps Hall. Security attended and spoke to the male who was a guest of a student in the Hall. The guest was taken back to his friend’s room.

1515 Report that a student had cut his lip while rehearsing for a play in the Portland Building. Security attended and advised the Student to attended A+E. The Building Attendant is to complete an Accident form.

1735 Report of people conducting a survey allegedly for the City Council in Newark Hall Security attended and spoke to those carrying out the survey. They were asked to leave. A copy of the information from these people has been e-mailed to managers with an interest in this type of activity.

2350 Patrol Security Officers discovered a very happy drunk in a wheelie bin at the rear of the Maths Building. The male was eventually found to be staying with his girlfriend in Derby Hall. The male was returned to his girlfriend who was relieved to see him safe and well apart from being very drunk.

0450 Report of a group of students drinking beer and playing loud music in the Hallward Library. University Security attended and spoke to the students. They were asked to turn the music off and stop drinking beer. Library Staff to be informed.

1520 Report that a vehicle had rolled into two other vehicles in the Main Visitors car park. Security attended details of those involved were taken and exchanged. The driver of the vehicle whose vehicle caused the damage will be reported to the Head of Security for failing to apply the handbrake.

1420 Report of a person seen climbing through a window at Derby Hall. Security attended the person concerned was spoken to by Security. The person was identified as a student resident in the Hall who had forgotten his room key he has been given advice.

2100 Patrol Security discovered a male in a toilet in the Sir Colin Campbell Building. The male had no connection to the University and he was told to leave the Campus.

0100 Report that damage had been done in a kitchen in Normanton House Sutton Bonington. The person concerned was dressed as a Tiger and after throwing food and smashing some plates left before they could be identified.

True Crime on Campus §21: the naked truth

More true crime on campus

Strange things can happen on campus. Some of them involving people who seem reluctant to keep their clothes on. Fortunately, our indefatigable Security staff are more than capable of responding to all kinds of events:

23:05 Security attended a report of a male in Portland Building, carrying a rucksack and emptying cash machines. On investigation the male was a staff member of G4S and was repairing the machine.

1730 Report that a Student had been seen in the early hours exposing himself and then running around Ancaster Hall with a handful of paper on fire. Security are following up.

04:40 Security received a report from a concerned mother regarding her daughter; a student resident in Cavendish Hall who was suffering from chest pains. Security had to wait for the student to return as she was in Tesco buying mints. On arrival the Security contacted the NHS Direct line and handed the phone over to the student to describe the symptoms. Security advised the student to call back if the symptoms got worse.

00:10 Security attended a report of a student who had seen a bat at Ancaster Hall. On arrival Security could not identify a bat.

22:15 Security received a report of a group of female students running around with knives in Sherwood Hall. On arrival the building attendant identified the six female students. It was established that one of the female students had used a butter knife to remove several room numbers from inside the Hall. The Deputy Hall Warden was present and informed the group of students that disciplinary action would follow. Hall Warden informed.

22:35 The Hall Warden at Lenton and Wortley Hall informed Security that three students were running around in their underwear. Security made them aware that this was unacceptable. Security to follow up.

2100 Security Officers were requested to a disturbance in the Sir Clive Granger Building. On arrival two Student Societies were having a disagreement about a room booking. The Security Officers report has been forwarded to the Director of Student Operations and Support.

18:50 Security received a report of three nude males running through the lodges and down Beeston Lane towards West Entrance. A further report was received of three females in their underwear walking up Jubilee Avenue. On arrival Security stopped the three females and transported them back to Willoughby Hall, where the remaining three males were spotted at the back of the Hall. The porter identified all of the students and Security warned them of the stupidity of their actions. Details to Hall Warden. Security to follow up.

0415 Patrol Security Officers observed a torch being used in Woodland adjacent to Highfield Lake. Officers entered the wooded area and two males were seen to run from the area. Officers discovered that the males had been attempting to light a fire in the wood.

1358 Report that a male was filming cheerleaders who were on the Sports Centre Field getting ready to take photographs for a calendar. The cheerleaders were changing from one outfit to another and exposing themselves in the process. The male was in a vehicle in the Sports Centre car park with a hand held camcorder in one hand… Security attended and the male was detained. Police were called and arrested the male. The cheerleaders have been told that they should use the changing rooms if they wish to change. Security will be following up on this arrest with the Police.

True Crime on Campus §20: accidents will happen

More true crime on campus: accidents happen, sometimes intentionally

Accidents can happen on campus. Fortunately, our Security staff are more than capable of responding to all kinds of events. Even when some of them really aren’t accidental at all:

0250 Report of a broken window at Sherwood Hall. Security attended: the window had been broken by persons unknown throwing a traffic cone through the window. Long Eaton Glass called out.

0050 Patrol Security Officers observed an Ambulance parked on Cherry Tree Hill. The Ambulance crew were treating a student who was believed to have a broken arm which was sustained when he fell out of a tree on Cherry Tree Hill.

2300 Request from Swimming Pool Staff for an Ambulance as a swimmer had been hit by a canoe. Security and Ambulance attended.

0330 Patrol Security stopped three students who were carrying gas cylinders on Beeston Lane. The cylinders were taken from the students.

1337 Report that a member of Estates had observed a male carrying a pedal cycle on Science Road which was secured with a D Lock. The member of Estates stopped the male and questioned him. The cycle was taken from the male and handed over to Security Staff. The male walked off Campus without the cycle. The cycle has been returned to its owner, a student, with advice on how to secure a pedal cycle. The Police have been informed and Security Staff are reviewing the CCTV.

1100 Report from the Police that a student had been stabbed on Campus. Security met with the Police and following information provided by the Police entry to a student’s room in Hugh Stewart Hall was made. The student who had contacted the Police was in bed asleep. He was woken and spoken to by the Police and Security and the student stated that he had not been stabbed but had been drinking heavily the night before. Head of Security and the Hall Warden are to be informed. The Police left after speaking to the student.

0305 Report that a Conference Delegate had cut himself shaving and required First Aid. Security attended and provided First Aid. The Delegate did not require further medical attention.

1615 Patrol Security observed that a student’s window at Derby Hall had a picture of a penis drawn on it with an obscene caption under it. The student was not in his room but a message was left for him to clean the window. The Warden is to be informed.
 
0335 Report that a female student had banged her head on a tree while walking by the Lakeside. The student had suffered blurred vision and was complaining of a headache. Security Officers took the student to the QMC to be checked out.
 
21:30 Security were called to Cavendish Hall as a student had injured their foot. He had dropped a cup on his left foot and cut it. Wound cleaned and plaster applied by Security. Student was able to walk and he was advised to call Security if there were any other problems.
 
13:30 A returning student living in Ancaster Hall reported that belongings from his room had been moved, including his mattress and duvet. The student informed us that it could be a prank from other students in his Hall. Security to follow up.

1730 Report that a male had thrown a child into Highfield Lake – Security attended. On arrival a child was found with a cut to his leg and was also covered in nettle stings from being grabbed and thrown into the lake. The person responsible had left the area when Security arrived. The Police were informed. Further information is that the child had a large water gun and had sprayed it into a boat full of people. One of the people in the boat got off and threw the child into the Lake. The child was left with his parent.

True Crime on Campus §19: a bit “wonky”

More true crime on campus

It’s business as usual for our ever-vigilant and attentive Security Team:

1445 Report of a suspicious package outside the DLRC Security attended. The package belonged to a Student who was playing a prank on a friend of his. Security Officers have given the Student some advice.

2105 Report of a male lying on the ground near to the Lodges on Beeston Lane. Security attended on arrival the male was sitting up. He stated that he was a member of staff but had felt a bit “wonky” after attending a formal event at a Hall of Residence. Security took the male home as he was still unsteady on his feet.

16:30 Security received a report to call for a plumber to room A13 at the Clinical Science Building at the City Hospital due to a slow drip from a pipe. A bucket was placed underneath the leak. Helpdesk informed.

0045 Patrol Security observed a male attempting to enter Derby Hall via an open window. The person was stopped by Security Officers and identified as a student who lives in the Hall but had forgotten his room key.

20:45 Security were called to Triumph Road to investigate a missing barrier. It was reported that a group of people were using it to jump over. Security removed barrier and placed in the Dearing Building.

1910 Security were requested to provide two batteries for the door bell to Hugh Stewart House by the Hall Porter of Hugh Stewart Hall Security attended.

12:05 Security received a phone call from the Warden at a Hall as a cleaner had found four cannabis plants growing in pots in the shower. Lights and other items associated with growing cannabis were also found. All items removed, Security to follow up and Police informed.

12:30 Security were called to the Trent Building, lower ground floor near the Great Hall as a Student had reported a male in the female shower. On arrival Security witnessed one male and one female exiting the room together.

22:15 Security were called to Sherwood Hall as someone was in the bar with a bag of ten swords. The student claimed that they were used in traditional English dance and he brought them onto Campus to promote this. Security removed swords as they could be used as weapons. Warden informed. Security to follow up.

22:35 The Hall Warden at Lenton and Wortley Hall informed Security that three students were running around in their underwear. Security made them aware that this was unacceptable. Security to follow up.

0045 Report of a male lying unconscious in a female toilet in the Hallward Library. University Security attended the Student was woken up and found to be very drunk. The Student thought the toilets were his room in his Hall of Residence. Security escorted the Student out of the Library where he was able to make his way back to his Hall.

1330 Report that a 4 year old child had been found on the Boulevard adjacent to the Tennis Centre. Security attended and spoke to the child. The child was asked where their parents were the child pointed to the DHL Pavilion. Security took the child to the Pavilion where the mother was identified. The mother was eating a meal. She did not thank Security for removing the child from the side of the road or returning the child to her. She told the child not to do it again and continued eating her meal.

0500 Patrol Security spoke to an Ambulance crew outside Derby Hall. They had been called to a student who had injured themselves while sleeping. Officers were not able to obtain further details as to the injury. The Warden is to be informed.

0250 Patrol Security Officers observed two students riding pedal cycles on Beeston Lane without lights the pair were also weaving all over the roadway. Security Officers stopped the students both of whom were drunk and the cycles they were on did not belong to them. The cycles were taken from them and they were informed that they would be reported to the Head of Security.

True Crime on Campus §16: A series of unfortunate events

More true crime on campus: where stuff happens

Unfortunate things can happen on campus. Fortunately, our unflappable Security staff are more than capable of responding to all kinds of events:

1215 Report that a pedal cyclist had fallen from his cycle outside the Pharmacy Building. Security attended. The student had been attempting to jump his cycle over the kerb when he fell off. The student suffered cuts and bruises and was taken to Hospital to be checked.

2315 Report of a student trapped in his room in Kingston House Sutton Bonington. Security attended and released the student who was advised to contact Opal staff for a permanent repair to be made.

1258 Report that a cyclist had ridden into the exit barrier of South Entrance. The barrier was broken off as the cyclist rode through and fell off his cycle. The cause of the collision was due to the cyclist not slowing down and allowing the barrier time to rise up and out of the way.

2340 Security were called to Nightingale Hall where a visitor had arrived to see her friend who was supposed to be a student at this University. Security attended and after speaking the visitor and checks made on our Student database plus further checks with Trent University it was found that the visitor was at the wrong University. The visitor had also lost her all of her belongings on the train to Nottingham and had no way of getting to her friend’s accommodation. The Security Supervisor took her in a Security vehicle.

19:32 Security were informed by Willoughby Hall Deputy Warden that a student required first aid as they had run into a fire door on D Floor at Willoughby Hall. Student went to hospital in a taxi with a friend. There was damage to the glass panel, Long Eaton Glass called out.

 

2245 Report of the lift not working Willoughby Hall. Security attended. Morris Vermaport called out. Due to there being 10 people stuck in the lift the Fire Service were requested to attend and they removed the occupants from the lift.

1000 Report that a window had fallen out of its frame in Hugh Stewart Hall Security attended contractor called out.

1030 Report of the lift not working with a person trapped in Portland Building. The Building Attendant and Security Officers attended. The button was pushed which started the lift working and released the person.

11:50 Security attended a report from 5 students that their belongings, which had been put under a bush whilst they played football on Florence Boot Field, had been stolen. Police informed and Security to follow up.

14:45 Security Control received a telephone call from a concerned relative that a student was stuck in a toilet in the Trent Building. A search was conducted but nobody was found. At 17:48 Trent received a telephone call from Ancaster Hall that the student had been found and the relatives have been informed.

17:15 Security attended a request to remove a padlock from a cycle as the student had lost her key.

22:39 Security Control received a call that there was an umbrella on fire in the Quad at Lenton Hall and the Porter was dealing with it. Security did not attend.

02:00 Security attended a report of broken glass in a door at Cavendish Hall caused by a student who was play fighting with a third party. Long Eaton Glass called out and details to Hall Warden.

Animal magic: True crime on campus §14

More true crime on campus

Not all of the challenges faced by our ever-vigilant Security team are down to people. Some involve animals of one kind or another (albeit sometimes with human involvement):

2020 Report of a bird in the Graduate School. Security attended but the bird could not be found.

1800 Report of dogs running loose at the rear of Abbey House. Security attended.

1330 Patrol Security Officer stopped a couple who were walking through Jubilee Campus with a Bull Terrier dog off its lead. The Officers asked them to put the dog on a lead which they complied with.

22:30 Security were informed that a group of students dressed as tigers were threatened by a male in a blue car. The students had shaken a stuffed whale at the car, the car stopped and the driver got out of the vehicle and walked towards his boot to get something out. The passenger had stopped him and then they drove off. Security made a search of the campus but car was not found.

1626 Report of 10 people dressed as chickens walking along Beeston Lane throwing water bombs. Security attended on arrival the Chickens had left the area.[Note, this is not the first time Security have had to deal with giant chickens, see True Crime §12]

1753 Request from a resident of Abbey House to remove a large bee from under a sheet in their flat. Security attended and the bee was removed.

1400 Report of a group of males hare coursing on University Land adjacent to the Sutton Bonington Campus. Security attended, Police informed.

2000 Report of a dog running loose around Abbey house. Security attended – the owners of the dog were asked to put the animal on a lead.

13:00 Security called to room A05 Plant Science, Sutton Bonington Campus. A pigeon was trapped in the office, it had caused a lot of mess. The pigeon was released and Quality First called out to clean up.

1415 Report of two males hunting with a falcon on University Farm Land, Sutton Bonington Campus. Security attended and the males were told to leave University property.

0200 Report of a cat in the Pope Building. Security attended and removed the cat.

Youth club: True crime on campus §13

More true crime on campus

In addition to dealing with the challenges presented by staff, students and visitors to campus, our indefatigable Security team also has to cope with the inappropriate activities of various groups of youths:

1920 Patrol Security Officer stopped a group of youths swimming in the Lake at Jubilee Campus. The youths were told to leave Campus.

1925 Patrol Security Officers spoke to a large group of youths on skateboards at the Jubilee Campus. They were told to leave Campus.

17:40 Security asked youths to leave Campus. A second group of youths nearby had also been reported to be throwing stones at ducks and fish in the lake, youths asked to leave Campus.

2120 Patrol Security stopped a group of youths on Jubilee Campus using skateboards. The youths were told to leave Campus.

2340 Patrol Security Officers at Jubilee Campus stopped a group of youths who were making a noise – they were told to leave Campus.

09:30 [note the time] Security asked a group of youths to leave Jubilee Campus as they were drinking brandy. Security removed the bottle and escorted them towards the gate where they were joined by more youths and they were all getting rowdy. Security called for assistance and youths soon left Campus.

13:59 Staff member witnessed BMX riders on Jubilee Campus near the Exchange building. Security attended, the youths escorted off Campus.

1501 Report of youths causing a nuisance at Jubilee Campus. Security attended – the youths left Campus as Security arrived.

1615 Report of youths in the water at the Millennium garden – Security attended.

2030 Report of youths letting off Rockets in Bramcote Woods – Security attended. On arrival it was discovered that the Scouts had an event taking place and were letting off Rockets. They were asked to let the University know if they were planning an event such as this again.

1330 Report of youths drinking with dogs in the UNSSC Garden. The dogs were loose and running around. Security attended and on arrival the youths were told to put the dogs on leads and leave the Campus.

0610 Report of youths throwing stones and exposing themselves on Beeston Lane Security attended and stopped four males one of whom is a Student. Two of the group including the Student admitted to exposing themselves to motorists as they drove past them. A file will be submitted to the Head of Security.

2100 Report of 30 children with tents in Bramcote Woods. Security attended – no children or tents were found.

True crime on campus §12: Just another day

Yet more true crime on campus

This time it is a selection of reports from just one day at the University of Nottingham. Perhaps not an entirely typical day, there is something of an end of term feel about some of the events. Nevertheless, our terrific Security staff have to be ready to deal with just about everything…

13:45 Security asked a skateboarder to stop riding on Science Road between L2 and the Auditorium. He ignored the request and continued. Security then saw him coming out of the Chemistry building and asked him for his ID. Student provided details, he was told not to skateboard on the roads again.

15:15 Security provided access to Highfield Sports Ground for the air ambulance.

15:20 It was reported by the Cripps Hall Manager that there was a BBQ on the grass area that had not been authorised. Security attended and asked them to extinguish it. This was done immediately by the Students.

15:45 Security received a report regarding the parking at Cripps Hall. On investigation Security found cars parked on the grass and a group of Students having a party with a swimming pool and water slide. After talking to the group they said they had got permission from the hall porter to do this. The hall porter was contacted and permission was not given. Students removed the pool and slide.

19:25 Security were called to Maths and Physics car park to remove a clamp from a vehicle that had broken down. Clamp removed no further action.

21:10 It was reported that a group of Students had been seen in fancy dress complete with a baseball bat. Security located the Students in Ancaster Hall bar, Security approached the Student with the baseball bat and advised him it was not an ideal accessory for a night out. Student was told he could collect it in the morning from the Security Office. Student was apologetic and polite throughout.

21:45 It was reported that 25 drunk male students dressed as chickens were destroying the bar at Willoughby Hall. On arrival the Willoughby Hall tomb stone had been ripped up and lying in the middle of the road. The Students were outside and heading in the direction of Florence Boot Hall. On arrival the Students were refused entry, after some initial arguing they moved on in the direction of Cut Through Lane. They caused general disruption to the traffic flow stopping cars and the hopper bus. Due to the Students separating it was not possible to take names. They headed towards the Trent Building, Mooch bar were advised not to let them enter. The Students then headed towards the downs and not seen again.

22:40 Security were called to attend Derby Hall as a group of approximately 30 students were arguing. It was very heated and seemed to be getting out of hand. It appeared that third year students had entered the Hall and removed a fire extinguisher and caused havoc in the kitchen area. In response the first year students has been exceptionally aggressive and physical. All parties had different versions of the events. Security advised first year Students to return to their rooms and third years to leave the area. Within several minutes the area was clear. Warden informed.

23:00 It was reported to Security that a local resident had made a complaint about noise coming from Ancaster Hall. On arrival they found approximately 40 students leaving the hall shouting and singing. Security told them to quieten down which they did. Students were getting into taxis and onto coaches ready to leave the campus. No further action.