Michael White
MC301 Contributor/Staff
According to the Jackson State University Public Safety Department, approximately 10 rooms at the Palisades Apartments were burglarized during Spring Break.
Initially there were five reports on Saturday, March 14 followed by an additional five on Monday, March 16.
Thomas Albright, JSU Chief of Police, stated that upon investigation, it was determined that room doors had been left unlocked to allow for new furniture to be moved into the rooms. During this time, items were taken from the unlocked rooms.
As part of the investigation, JSU Public Safety officials interviewed staff and the movers that had been contracted to replace the furniture. The investigation is still ongoing.
JSU officials have contacted the students who were burglarized and will replace all their stolen items.
“This was an unfortunate incident. The university wants to assure students that we care and make sure that they are compensated for their losses,” said Albright. “Additionally, measures have been put in place to ensure that doors are double-checked on a regular basis and that safety remains a priority at all times.”
Some students living in the Palisades feel that security is sufficient.
“I think security is okay. I can say that the ‘Sades’ is a lot better than what it used to be,” said Darryl Bufford, a senior criminal justice major from Atlanta, Ga. “I think sometimes they do more than they have to, when it comes down to different things.”
Steven Diew, a sophomore biology/pre-med major from Yazoo City, Miss., said: “I feel that since we are all in college, we should be mature enough not to break in someone’s stuff, but different people handle things in different ways. Keep your room locked, and keep your valuables hidden or tucked away somewhere.”
Others students feel improvements are needed in security measures.
“The security is none existent because any student with a decal or sticker can get in the Palisades,” said Eric Barber, a junior health education major from Leland, Miss.
According to the JSU Residential Handbook, security of personal property within the residence hall is primarily the responsibility of the student. The room door should be locked at all times when the student is away from the room even for a short time period. Students are advised to label their personal belongings, to record serial numbers, and to photograph property as a means of identifying it in case of loss or theft.
The Department of Residence Life at JSU also encourages students to obtain sufficient insurance to cover losses due to theft. Information on student property insurance is available in office located in Campbell College North.
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