In its short time on campus, Moore Hall has received infamy for its multiple cases of vandalism that have led to residents of the building being frequently charged to pay for damages, ultimately leading to the installation of security cameras.
“Criminal vandalism has virtually disappeared in Moore Hall since the system went live in mid April 2015,” said Director of Public Safety Rick Cohen. The security cameras have garnered attention from students on campus and sparked conversation on whether or not they reduced vandalism. During the 2013-14 academic year, there were 15 criminal damage to property incidents reported to Public Safety. In 2014-2015, there were 14, according to Cohen.
“The last report occurred last semester after the (security camera) system was installed and resulted in the offender being immediately and easily identified, and subsequently held responsible for their actions,” Cohen said. There have been no reported acts of criminal damage to property since last April, he said.
Stephanie DeLeon ’17, who lives in Moore Hall, believes there has been a change on campus with the security cameras in place. “Kids are taking more caution,” she said.
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Cohen cautions students about the legal consequences of vandalism on campus. “I think it is important to recognize that damaging the property of others, whether believing it is insignificant or not, is still an illegal act that results in unnecessary expense to repair,” he said.
“It is not victimless, harmless, or humorous.” “While my words may seem a bit harsh, I am confident that my ‘message’ is similar to one most parents try to instill; respect for the property of others. We are all very fortunate to live, study, or work in a beautiful and caring community. It is therefore our collective responsibility to care for and protect it,” he said.
Although vandalism does not seem to be a concern in Moore Hall at the present time, students like DeLeon nonetheless feel that security issues are still present in the building. “Cameras will not stop a person from entering but they can identify them once they get in. So from that perspective, cameras have been a positive addition. Nevertheless, if warranted, there are still more measures that can be taken,” Cohen said.
