Dear Editor,
I read with interest the “locker room larceny prompts patrols” in your April 20, Olympian. To say that I am upset is an understatement! Students attend our campus to get an education and to better prepare them for the future. I do not enjoy seeing our students be victims of any type of crime especially during my watch.
OC sits on more than 40 acres with 20 plus buildings throughout. Security handles numerous calls for service in support of the institution and its grounds. The Physical Education building and locker room area is just one of the areas security supports.
There is not one officer/guard that doesn’t walk through the PE building during his/her shift multiple times. The hard part when walking through is knowing who belongs and who doesn’t.
In some cases I’m sure there is more than one thief and would suggest they work in pairs so they can watch security as we move about the campus. Being “uniformed” does not allow us the luxury to blend in and look like students.
I can tell you for a fact that our campus is proactive. Security officers and Rocky Wallace (security supervisor) has worked closely with the student-staff that work in the PE building and have asked for their help in making foot patrols in the locker room areas.
Security has partnered with Facilities Services and our IT Department to install cameras at the entrance to the PE building. With cameras in place it is unsettling that the thefts continue. It is as if the would-be thieves are saying “catch me if you can.” What I can say is that in my 10 plus years at OC, these last couple of quarters have been especially frustrating.
Knowledge is powerful as long as it is used properly. With that said, students and staff alike need to be proactive with their personal property.
Security has always said we can’t do it alone. This is your institution. Remember safety tips and keep your valuables protected.
As I patrol the parking lots I am amazed at how many purses, bags and even at times cash are lying on the center console in the front seat. I think to myself these guys are only asking to be a victim.
Crime is about opportunity. If we can reduce the opportunities hopefully we can reduce the crime.
Keep your valuables with you or if possible in your vehicle out of sight. The old saying of “locks keep the honest man honest” is true, but those who are intent on stealing will do whatever it takes. I cannot emphasisze this enough!
I want to assure the campus that as long as I am working here, I will be vigilant in my duties, and although I cannot be everywhere at once I will do my best to deter and prevent criminal activity and apprehend those committing criminal acts at Olympic College to have them prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
Ron Simmons
OC Security
360-475-7800
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