The recent alleged kidnapping and assault accusation by a student, found to be a hoax by campus police, shows how lies are no match for today’s technology.
On Sept. 9, the Los Angeles Police Department reported the alleged abduction and sexual assault of a female student. It was said that an unknown male forced the student into a SUV, blindfolded her, then took her to his residence where she was allegedly sexually assaulted.
Thanks to campus surveillance, consisting of 47 cameras, it was discovered that she lied and she later recanted her statement.
It just so happens that EC is currently working on a project to distribute 100 new surveillance cameras throughout the grounds in an effort to expand campus security, Ann Garten, Public Information Officer, said.
Administrators are also on a continuous quest to fix the lighting problems in low-lit areas such as between the Music Building and the Schauerman Library, and between the Student Services Building and the North Physical Education Building.
The campus police department completes a regular inspection of campus lighting and works closely with the Facilities, Planning and Services Division to repair inoperative lighting and to install additional lighting where a need has been identified, according to our Web site.
Students should be grateful for such an impressive team working together to protect us becuase it wasn’t always this safe on campus.
From 2004 to 2007, there was a crime spike on campus, according the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Torrance Police Department and the Gardena Police Department.
In 2007 alone, there was one sexual assault, 30 reported motor vehicle thefts and 45 reported drug abuse violations.
Today, students can find a few ways on campus to help protect themselves.
One option is the blue emergency poles (E-Poles) located throughout the campus. These poles are directly connected to campus police and are available to students at any time.
Students also have the option of being escorted by a cadet, community service officer, or a police officer when they feel their safety is in question.
There’s also a campus shuttle that is available to students in the evenings so they don’t have to walk in the dark areas of the campus or walk alone. The phone number for this service is 310-660-3100.
Students should always be aware of their surroundings, use good judgment and insist on using the campus shuttle that is available. Due to the size of our campus, every police alert bulletin is released to all students via e-mail and posted on campus.
We can only prevent crimes from happening to an extent so be responsible while on campus. Campus security are at the top of their game but they can only do so much .
-See related article on Page 2
