From stolen vehicles to cars being broken into, Greyhound Village has seen an increase in car thefts, according to University of Indianapolis Assistant Director of Residence Life Kyle Johnson. Surveillance cameras were installed to resolve the issue, according to Johnson.
In an email sent to GV residents, Johnson said the cameras were set to be installed on Oct. 15 by BD Managed Services. However the camera installation was pushed back to the week of Oct. 19 due to weather conditions, according to Johnson. Johnson said that with cameras being installed, he hopes it can help the students with any car problems.
“Most of the time, when someone sees a camera, they’re a little bit more or less likely to do something, but also if an issue were to arise, we can better help and support students,” Johnson said.
Peak Campus Management, who oversees maintenance and facilities for all apartment areas on campus, was involved with getting the cameras installed, according to Johnson. Johnson said the apartment community conducted weekly meetings and through the discussions, Peak Campus Management became more aware of the ongoing problem of car theft.
“So through just the many concerns that we have expressed, they [Peak Campus Management] were able to get their budget approved to purchase these new cameras,” Johnson said.
A survey was sent to GV residents prior to the announcement of the cameras. It was very clear, according to Johnson, that the students wanted to have more security in the parking lot.
“It’s a want and need from students, I’m glad we were able to meet that and that we can help them with any issues that arise,” Johnson said.
Johnson said that UIndy Police is a huge partner in helping solve issues with theft. According to Johnson, the cameras cover the whole surface of the front lot and the backlot of GV.
“If we see anything, we would then send that footage over to our campus police to add to their report … and they can look further into it,” Johnson said.
Since the installation of the cameras, Johnson said, he has not personally heard of any issues or brought to his attention to warrant GV to look at the cameras. He said that it is hard to say right now if the cameras are being preventative or reducing crime, but by next semester there can be better judgment.
