STANFORD, Calif., Stanford University’s Department of Public Safety released its Safety and Security Almanac on Oct. 1.
The report showed a sharp drop in sex offenses in 2004: A total of 13 compared to 51 in 2003. The decrease was most dramatic in the forcible fondling category where only eight were reported last year, compared to 37 in 2003.
Burglary continued to be a problem, with the total number increasing to 384 last year, up from 343 the year before. Bike thefts increased by 80, from 353 to 433. The amount of bike thefts in 2004, however, was 271 less than the 704 reported to police in 2002.
The total number of liquor law violations decreased significantly, from 79 in 2003 to 47 in 2004. Stanford’s wristband policy may account for the reduced number of violations. At school-sponsored events, students who are of legal drinking age and want to consume alcohol are required to wear wristbands. Police vehicles also patrol the streets surrounding party locations.
The number of drug violations reported were the same in both 2003 and 2004 at 22 each. Thirty-seven were reported in 2002.
The almanac included a list of safety precautions for students, including ATM safety tips. It also recommends students lock their doors and secure their bikes.