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Substance abuse reports increase on campus

The 2019 annual report released Sept. 25 to the campus community regards  information and statistics about the school’s crime and safety-related matters. 

This year, the report displays data on crimes that occurred each year from 2016 through 2018. Burglary and motor vehicle thefts both decreased by 17 cases with a total of 10 burglary incidents and 15 vehicle thefts in 2018. 

Students are encouraged to take safety precautions to prevent possible crimes. Third-year computer and information systems student Eric Valenzuela explains that he generally feels cautious about preventing a car break-in in all places. He is usually careful to always lock the car and not keep anything of value visible.

According to the 2019 Annual Security Report, stalking remains high at CPP with a total of 16 cases in 2018, compared to 15 cases in 2017 and 5 cases in 2016. Last year, two cases of domestic violence, 10 cases of dating violence and seven cases of rape were reported.

Over 20 pages of the report are dedicated to discussing specifics of sexual misconduct including consent, reporting options and resources on campus. 

Wellness programs mentioned in the report include over 24 health programs and trainings that were held on campus relating to sex education in 2018.

Data found in the security report suggests substance use on campus is an increasing problem. There was a 156-case increase in liquor law referrals totaling 297 cases reported this past year. Drug law referrals saw a significant increase from 38 cases in 2017 to 96 cases in 2018.

An estimate of about seven different programs were held last year discussing drugs or alcohol. 

A noticeable increase in the weapons law referrals jumped from two cases to 12 cases in 2018.

When asked about safety on campus, Lilian Tigerino, a first-year liberal studies student said, “I always feel safe walking around campus … all the lights (at night) make me feel (safe).” 

“Walking past crazy drivers at night is scary; they are always driving so fast,” said Madison Talavera, a first-year criminology student. 

However, she explains that she doesn’t worry about feeling unsafe in any other circumstance on campus.

Crime prevention is emphasized as each student’s individual responsibility for maintaining a safe campus. On-campus crime prevention education includes, but is not limited to, sexual violence, bystander intervention, alcohol and drugs and mental health first aid.

“During the time that I have been here, I have felt really safe,” said Derren Castro, a first-year nutrition and dietetics student. 

An anonymous tip line phone number can be called at (909) 869-3399 to report something. These efforts are being made to promote the University Police’s motto of “see something, say something.”

CPP will release the next annual security report by Oct.1 2020.

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