South SFV Today

Stanford University has released its 2024 Safety, Security, and Fire Report, detailing campus crime statistics and safety information. The report is published annually by the Stanford University Department of Public Safety (DPS) to comply with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act. It is available online, with printed copies obtainable through DPS.

“While the Stanford campus is generally safe, it is important to review the report and understand the ways in which people can contribute to their own safety and security and the safety of the community,” said DPS Chief Laura Wilson. “There is also useful information about how individuals can respond in the event of an emergency, and how the university will activate to support students, staff, faculty, and visitors.”

The report includes alleged offenses reported within the 2023 calendar year as well as data from previous years. It provides details on how community members can report crimes and respond to emergencies. Additionally, it explains how AlertSU’s mass notification system operates.

In 2023, there were 24 reported hate crimes compared to seven in 2022. Of these incidents, 15 involved vandalism including swastikas etched into restrooms or elevators. Other acts targeted symbols of identity such as a mezuzah removed from a student residence and a Black Lives Matter sign defaced.

Two intimidation incidents targeted Jewish individuals with offensive imagery. The report also noted four simple assaults, two thefts, and one aggravated assault involving a hit-and-run that injured an Arab Muslim student. Eleven hate crimes were reported after October 7th when the Hamas-Israel war began.

“The last academic year was a difficult year for many people on our campus, which is reflected in this report’s 2023 crime statistics,” Wilson stated. “In an effort to ensure our campus community is safe... DPS intends to continue our engagement with contract security staff... other law enforcement agencies.”

Earlier this year, two committees released reports following reviews of experiences before and after October 7th: the Muslim, Arab, and Palestinian Communities Committee; and the Subcommittee on Antisemitism and Anti-Israeli Bias. Recommendations included topics ranging from campus policies to norms around expression.

Property crimes saw increases in some areas with burglaries rising from 25 in 2022 to 28 in 2023. There were also increases in motor vehicle thefts from 150 in 2022 to 187 in 2023.

“We had more burglaries on campus as well as in residences last year...” said Lucia Wade, Clery compliance coordinator for DPS. She emphasized caution due to open access areas on campus.

Sex offenses saw varied changes: fondling reports increased while rape reports decreased slightly from previous years’ figures. Reports of statutory rape rose partly due to changes under Clery Act guidance for classifying stalking cases according to Wade.

Support resources are available for those affected by abuse through various university offices including SHARE IX Office & Title VI Office along with services like Stanford Confidential Support Team & Counseling Psychological Services (CAPS).

DPS continues leveraging technology for crime investigation via expanded Video Safety Security Systems program alongside license plate cameras at entrances enhancing overall security measures across Stanford's main campus.

For more information or assistance regarding safety concerns contact DPS during business hours at (650)723-9633 or their non-emergency line at (650)329-2413; email inquiries can be sent directly via police@stanford.edu while emergencies should dial911or9911fromcampusphones respectively.