Students and officials have expressed concerns about the recently reported crime incidents against students within the University community, and the administration is urging students to take extra precautions to ensure their safety.
Since the beginning of the school year, University students have been the victims of at least nine separate cases of attempted robbery, burglary, and vandalism, most recently at the Lambeth Field Apartments.
"Every year there are a certain number of criminal incidents that occur," University Police Capt. Michael Coleman said.
In response to this recent string of crimes, Coleman said the University Police have increased the number of patrols around Lambeth.
In addition, Lambeth residents met with University deans and police in Lambeth Commons Sunday night to discuss safety concerns, according to Lambeth resident Kevin LaPorta, a second-year Engineering student.
Coleman added that University police are working closely with Charlottesville police to investigate the recent crimes.
Students, like LaPorta, have said they have already taken extra precautions to ensure their safety because of the recent crimes.
"I used to always walk with my iPod on, but now when I near Lambeth I always take off my headphones because of the recent crime wave," LaPorta said. "People need to realize not everybody is a U.Va. student and they don't abide by the honor code policy."
In a recent interview with The Cavalier Daily, Dean of Students Penny Rue urged students to be vigilant, use Yellow Cab and SafeRide, stay in groups and not listen to iPods or talk on cell phones while walking at night.
Coleman also urged students to watch out for one another and help protect fellow students.
"Generally speaking, the actions and observations of students can go a long way ... in making people safer," he said.
Coleman added that it is important to walk in lighted areas and not to stray away from sidewalks.
Every fall and spring,Student Council performs lighting walks and makes recommendations for other safety aspects, like emergency phones and sidewalks, Coleman said.
The Safety and Security Committee always welcomes students in attendance at their meetings to express concerns, he said.
"In addition to being aware of the other people ... you also have to be aware of what's going on around you personally," Coleman said.
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