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 Davin Swanson |
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| According to statistics released by GTPD, the number of serious offenses was down by 32 percent in 1997. |
Georgia Tech was a safer place in 1997. The Tech campus enjoyed a lower crime rate across the board as compared to the previous year.
Reported crimes dropped from 1996 levels in every month.The crime rate was unaffected by the 1996 Summer Olympics. Serious offenses were down by nearly 32 percent compared to the prior year.
"These are good trends," explained GTPD Chief Jack Vickery. "[The trends] follow larger national trends and also Metro Atlanta trends."
"The faculty, staff, and students, as well as the Tech community as a whole, deserve to be commended for doing things that help reduce crime and make it a safer community," said Chief Vickery.
Police hope that continued vigilance from members of the Tech community will pay off in further crime reductions.
"Just because these numbers look good doesn't mean it is time for people to start relaxing," said Chief Vickery. "People still need to recognize that criminals will take advantage of oppourtunities that are given to them."
The most commonly reported crimes at Georgia Tech in 1997 were property crimes. GTPD reccomends that people take steps to protect their property.
"Don't leave valuables visible in the passenger compartment of your vehicle," Chief Vickery said. "It is a simple thing you can do."
"Laptops, CDs, cellular phones, and golf clubs—anything valuable can attract criminals to your car," Chief Vickery elaborated.
"Add a simple security device like The Club or an ignition cut-off device to your vehicle," Chief Vickery said. "It won't cost you very much, but it can offer a lot of protection."