I am sick and tired of seeing Timely Warning: Motor Vehicle Theft in my inbox. MPD needs to develop a plan on how they plan to tackle the increasing number of car thefts that have occurred on campus. And no, telling me "This motor vehicle theft is consistent with a notable increase in vehicle crimes across the Denver Metropolitan area" does not cut it.

I have concerns that my car may be stolen/broken into if I do not park as close as possible to campus buildings and I no longer feel safe leaving campus later at night as I worry my car might be stolen in later hours. These risks are even greater for students parking in the lots on 19th due to their direct access to 6th Ave. I have spoken to students who have alleged that the security cameras in 1750 Jackson have not been turned on despite the fact that there have been multiped thefts and burglaries in their garages. Even McNeil, where MPD is located, has been targeted.

What does Mines Police plan to do to help deter thefts on campus? There have been no statements made regarding how Mines PD wants to decrease the number of car related crimes on campus nor does it seem they plan on making one. We have put a "kick me" sign on our back letting criminals know that we are an easy target for thefts. Since Mines PD has not released a plan, here's some possible ways to make it harder for thieves to take from our campus:

1: Increase the number of cameras in all existing parking lots
2: Hire more staff to help monitor security cameras and altering of suspicious activity
3: Install more lighting within lots.
4: Signage reminding students/facility/staff to lock their doors and take valuables as well as signage alerting to the use of cameras
5: Increase patrols within lots prone to theft. (ex: Lots closest to 19th and Mines Park)

I recognize that all of this takes time and money and it doesn't guarantee thefts will stop, but there at least needs to be an open communication between the police and campus on how they want to tackle the problem.