Warning – timely

August 29, 2017

Timely Warning Notice to the Gonzaga University Campus Community, Spokane Police and Gonzaga Campus Security and Public Safety have taken a number of reports of property crimes occurring in University owned/managed and privately owned properties in the Logan neighborhood. 

Most notably, in the past two days there have been two burglaries and one attempted burglary on or near campus.  We are not sure if these incidents are related, but we are asking students to be sure to lock doors and first floor windows in your apartments, houses, and residence hall rooms. 

Below are several crime prevention links that serve as resources for you as you take precautions to reduce the incidence of property crime victimization.

  • Campus Security Blog

http://blogs.gonzaga.edu/campo/

  • City of Spokane Crime Prevention Page

https://my.spokanecity.org/police/prevention/

  • Spokane County Sherriff’s office Crime Prevention tips for home

https://www.spokanecounty.org/1459/Home-Security-Ideas

  • National Crime Prevention Council

http://www.ncpc.org/topics/home-and-neighborhood-safety

  • Criminal Justice PhD Homeowner tips

http://criminaljusticephd.org/crime-prevention-tips-for-homeowners/

 

As always, we want to remind you to call 911 for Spokane Police or 509-313-2222 for Campus Security and Public Safety to report suspicious people or circumstances. 

 

Your Campus Security Team

 

Scott Snider, Director of Campus Security and Public Safety


Personal Safety Tips

March 22, 2017

With the recent events across campus, we at Campus Security and Public Safety want to remind you of some things that can keep you and your fellow students safe:

  • If you are experiencing an emergency, or need Police, Fire or Medics right away, call 911. If you are unsure of what is going on call campus security at 509-313-2222.
  • If you see something suspicious, or out of place call Campus Security right away. If you momentarily wonder if Campus Security may what to know…….call.
  • When entering a residence hall, or academic building, do not let people run up behind you and grab the door. That will force them to scan their ID if they belong there.  If they get in and you don’t think they belong there, call us at 313-2222.
  • If you feel like someone is following you to the front door, think of another entrance you can use, or call one of your roommates to let you in, so there is more than one person there when you go in. If you feel like you are being followed, you have the option of calling 911 or Campus Security.  Keep walking and tell us where you are.  Stay in lit or populated areas.  Don’t forget the blue light phones.
  • If you see someone you don’t recognize inside your residence hall, or maybe hanging around outside, call campus security immediately.
  • Don’t be afraid to call. The likelihood that we are going to find a problem is generally very minimal, but we want to be aware of what is happening on campus.  And if you hesitate to call, we may miss something.

 

Brian Best

Campus Security and Public Safety


Warm Weather Reminder

March 22, 2017

As we start to settle into spring after a long winter, things start to change around Spokane.   One of those changes that affects us the most is the criminal element in the area starts to rise.  The cold no longer keeps them inside and those looking to commit crime are using the warmer weather to be out and about when there are fewer people out, usually in the middle of the night.

Spokane has seen a huge rise in vehicle prowling and thefts and the Logan Neighborhood is not immune to that.

Please remember:

  • Lock everything, including residence doors and windows and vehicle doors.  If you leave your vehicle unlocked, someone will go through it looking for items to take from you.
  • Keep items of value out of sight.  The $200 Oakley sunglasses are very attractive to a thief, but so are gym bags sitting in the back seat and the empty department store bag that was left over from the last shopping trip.
  • If you are the victim of a crime, please report it.  By not doing so, we are unable to track or ad patrols to deter such thefts in the future.  Call Crime check at 456-2233, and Campus Security at 313-2222.

Have a safe and successful spring from Campus Public safety and Security.

Brian Best, Crime Prevention and Education Officer

 


January Newsletter from Officer Kirk Kimberly from SPD on Domestic Violence

February 2, 2017

Welcome Back!

 

I truly hope your holiday season was a good one! Many people do not realize that the holidays, and related stressors, help to increase the amount of domestic violence assaults (and subsequent arrests) during this time every year. Additionally, research has shown that domestic violence increases during or immediately after the Super Bowl. Stressors such as finance, family guests, and/ or your team losing horribly tends to set people off. Due to poor coping strategies and mechanisms, it is not uncommon for this stress to spawn violent behavior. Students are not immune to these processes, but violence is sparked by different triggers. To understand how students can be effected by domestic violence at school, it is necessary to understand the domestic violence laws in Washington State. It is important to note that domestic violence laws are federally based and essentially are the same in every state.

Domestic violence, as defined in Washington, includes the following:

“Means the infliction or threat of physical harm against an intimate partner, and includes physical, sexual, and psychological abuse against the partner, and is a part of a pattern of assaultive, coercive, and controlling behaviors directed at achieving compliance from or control over that intimate partner” (RCW 70.123.020(4)).

Police are required to make an arrest in a domestic violence situation when all five of the following criteria are met:

  • An assault has occurred;
  • A primary aggressor can be identified;
  • A domestic relation can be identified;
  • The primary aggressor is over 16 years old; and
  • The primary aggressor is located within 4 hours of the assault.

You may be asking how this applies to students. Well, it effects students when one looks at the domestic relation criteria. A domestic relation (or “intimate partner”) is defined as “a person who is or was married, in a state registered domestic partnership, or in an intimate or dating relationship with another person at the present or at sometime in the past. Any person who has one or more children in common with another person, regardless of whether they have been married, in a domestic partnership with each other, or lived together at any time, shall be treated as an intimate partner” (RCW 70.123.020(8)).

Current or previous roommates or anyone who is or has ever been in a dating relationship are where students tend to come in contact with domestic violence laws, frequently without knowing or understanding those laws. If all five of the above criteria are met, police have absolutely no choice… they must make an arrest, even when the victim does not want to pursue charges.

 

Be safe and have a great semester!

Detective Kirk Kimberly

KKimberly@SpokanePolice.org


Safe Practices for Social Gatherings

December 20, 2016

Safe Practices for Social Gatherings

Whenever people gather and consume alcohol or other substances there are potential concerns everyone should consider and have plans in place to prevent problems.  The following list of suggestions are some of the things that help us celebrate and socialize in less dangerous or risky ways.

  • Know your limit & plan ahead.
  • Eat food before and while you drink.
  • Sip your drink (slow down).
  • Skip a drink now and then and substitute with non-alcoholic drink (another great tip is to have a glass of water with your drink, and sip on that between sips of your drink).
  • Beware of unfamiliar drinks.
  • Appoint a designated driver.
  • Respect the rights of individuals who do not wish to drink.
  • Keep track of how many drinks you are consuming.
  • Space your drinks.
  • Drink for quality vs. quantity.
  • Avoid drinking games.
  • Plan ahead for transportation — don’t drink and drive!
  • Never accept a drink from someone you don’t know.
  • When ordering a drink at the bar, watch the bartender make your drink so you can know how much alcohol you will be having.
  • Alcohol and sex do not mix — drunken sex is not consensual sex.
  • Careful what you combine, most drugs and alcohol do not mix well. Be sure to read all warning labels.
  • Try using a phone app such as BACcards, which contains information to Gonzaga’s Center for Cura Personalis.  https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/baccards.com/id894761403?mt=8

Occasionally a community will experience an uptick in the suspected or reported incidents of drink spiking, and the incidents of sexual assaults. The best way to combat being a victim of drink spiking is to not ever leave your beverage unattended.  As a bystander there are a number of things you can do to help others stay safe.

  • If you see someone’s drink being spiked, let them know
  • If you see someone spike an unattended drink and walk away, throw away the drink
  • If you see someone exhibiting the effects of being drugged, offer them help
  • If you realize someone has been drugged, seek medical attention
  • If you see someone with drugs and they tell you their intention, alert authorities

Stay safe and look out for each other.  Please remember Zags Help Zags.

There are number of resources available on campus to help you or people you know who have issues with substance use and or have been the victim of being drugged and assaulted.  Here are some helpful links:

Center for Cura Personalis

www.gonzaga.edu/student-life/ccp/Wellness-And-Prevention-Education.asp

www.gonzaga.edu/student-life/ccp/Alcohol-Other-Drugs.asp

Title IX Office

Gonzaga University

Coordinator

509-313-6910

Investigator

509-313-2227

 

Lutheran Services

Gonzaga University representative

Kerri Hadley

509-342-8564

509-624-7273 (24 hr. services)

http://spokanecrimevictimservicecenter.com/

 

Campus Security

Gonzaga University

509-313-2222

 

1st Call for Help

800-690-6639


Security Tips for Winter Break

December 15, 2016

Campus Security and Public Safety will be on duty throughout the break and reminds everyone to secure your valuables while you are away.

• Please lock all your windows and doors.
• Keep items of value out of sight.
• Lock and remove everything from your vehicle.
• If you have a bike bring it indoors. Leave it in your room or in a common area, but keep it locked up with your u-lock.
• If you will be staying at GU over the break please call x2222 if you see anything or anyone that looks out of place.

  • If you live off campus and are staying in the area over Christmas Break, please keep an eye out for things in the neighborhood that look suspicious or out of place, and call 911 to report those incidents.

Thank you and enjoy the holiday


Spokane Police Department Holiday Safety Tips

December 15, 2016

 

Holiday safety tips from the Spokane Police Department

 

With the holidays upon us, the Spokane Police Department (SPD) wants the community to have a happy and safe holiday season. Shoppers need to keep in mind that criminals are constantly surveying for an opportunity to commit crimes, such as looking for a running vehicle, an unsuspecting shopper who leaves their purse in the shopping cart for a few seconds, or an individual who leaves their packages in plain sight in the backseat of their vehicle.

 

To help minimize the risk of becoming a crime victim during holiday shopping outings, SPD suggests following a few holiday safety tips:

 

  • If you order gifts online make sure someone will be at home to receive your deliveries as unattended packages at your door are an easy target for opportunistic criminals.

 

  • When leaving your house to shop or visit friends and family, ensure your windows and doors are locked. Keep lights on when you leave the house or use automatic timers for some of your lights.

 

  • When shopping at night, go with a friend or family member.

 

  • Park your vehicle in well-lit areas, and have your keys handy while walking to your car.

 

  • When parking your car be sure to keep all packages out of sight, and be sure to remove garage door openers to prevent thieves from using vehicle registration information to gain access to your home through the garage.

 

  • Wallets and purses are prime targets for criminals in crowded shopping areas, and consumers should keep their cash, credit cards and identification in a safe, secure location.

 

  • Don’t leave purses, bags or wallets unattended in shopping carts.

 

  • Avoid displaying large amounts of cash.

 

  • Stay alert to your surroundings. Trust your instincts.

 

The Spokane Police Department wants to remind residents of the importance of personal safety and security especially during the holiday shopping season when seasonal crime trends rise due to increased numbers of shoppers and increased opportunities for criminals and when colder weather and longer hours of darkness can also be factors. Hopefully by following some of these simple safety tips, everyone in our community will have a fun, festive, and most importantly safe holiday season.


Parking over Christmas break

December 14, 2016

As Christmas break and finals are rapidly approaching, one of the last things you want to worry about is your car over break. If you have a permit, you are welcome to park your vehicle on campus where your friendly GU Security Officers will be patrolling all during the break. If you don’t have a permit, come into the Parking office, in the lower level of Welch Hall, and register your vehicle and you’ll be able to park on campus as well. Wherever you park your vehicle, make sure to remove all valuables as not to tempt the less fortunate to break into your car. Remember, the City of Spokane Parking Enforcement can, and has last year, issued citations for vehicles parked in the same spot for 72 hours. Good luck on finals, we’re all pulling for you, and have a Merry Christmas and a great break!

 

Matt Gerdes

Parking and Transportation Officer


Spokane Police: Don’t leave car unattended while warming it up

December 14, 2016

The Spokane Police Department (SPD) warns that leaving your vehicle running while unattended increases your chances of becoming a victim.

 

In prior years, SPD has seen an increase in stolen vehicles as a result of individuals leaving their vehicles unattended while warming them up.

 

“Locking your unattended vehicle while it is warming up is not enough to keep it from being stolen,” says Captain Brad Arleth. “It only takes a few seconds for someone to steal a car or truck that is sitting unoccupied. In addition, people are faced with the possibility of a burglary at their home as their house keys are often on their vehicle key ring.”

SPD receives reports of vehicles commonly stolen while left running and unattended at homes, gas stations, convenience stores and ATMs.

Arleth says the best way to approach cold morning commutes is to start the vehicle and remain with it while using a scraper to remove frost from windows.

Residents should also use the following tips to help prevent the theft of vehicles, which represent a relatively large investment for most people:

 

  • Park in well-lighted areas and always lock your car when it is unattended.
  • Never leave your keys in the ignition or elsewhere in the vehicle.
  • If you have a garage, use it rather than parking outside where your vehicle is more vulnerable.
  • Don’t leave packages, purses, electronics, bags/briefcases, automatic garage door openers, personal papers and mail or other items in plain view in your vehicle which can invite a break-in and lead to vehicle theft, home burglary and identification theft.
  • Never hide a second set of keys in your vehicle. Extra keys can easily be found, especially by experienced thieves who know the hiding places in vehicles.

Officer Kirk Kimberly Theft information

November 20, 2016

Tis the season… for THEFT!!!!

 

Happy Holidays! I sincerely hope everyone has an amazing holiday season. Unfortunately there are a select few people who believe that the only way for them to have a good holiday season is by taking what others possess. Starting with the whole Black Friday fiasco through the first couple weeks of January, there tends to be an increase in several types of crime. So, in the hope of helping prevent or limit victimization, I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate some prevention ideas.

 

Residential Burglary: During the holiday season, many people put up night Christmas trees and decorations both inside and outside of their home that can draw a lot of attention. Many of these same people open their curtains to show the world, or at least their neighbors, their Christmas spirit. This is a great way for criminals walking by to take a look at how many gifts you have under the tree so they know which houses will be the most lucrative to burglarize later. I would suggest limiting the amount of presents under the tree till the night before Christmas and/or limiting when the curtains are open to only daylight hours when you are home. This makes it less likely that criminals can easily view into your house whereas when it is dark outside and light inside, you are unable to see them, but they will have a great view of you and what you have.

 

 

Gonzaga Students frequently leave for the holidays. Criminals know this and residential burglaries in dorms tends to occur most years despite some good vigilance from Gonzaga Security patrols. If you leave, take your most important (and portable) items with you or hide them somewhere most people would not look. If you stay around, pay more attention to your surroundings and call security if something does not seem right or 911 if there is an emergency.

 

Vehicle Theft: You would think that the colder weather would drive down these crime rates but that is simply not true. Unfortunately, the cold weather prompts some people to start their vehicle and leave them running to warm up. It is actually illegal to leave your vehicle running and unoccupied. However, even without this prohibition, it is a BAD idea since many cars are stolen this time of year that would not normally be able to have been stolen (without the key).

 

Vehicle Prowling: People increase gift shopping for the holidays.  Criminals are no exception, only they do not frequently shop in stores. Criminal’s window shop in parking lots and garages looking for vehicles with a bunch of store bags inside. They will break your window and take the gifts that you just purchased. If you are going to shop, always try to put the items in an area not visible from the outside, especially if you are making several trips inside the mall. Remember that this is also true when you return items to the stores after Christmas. Also, DO NOT leave a spare key (or the valet key) inside your car ANYWHERE! Vehicle prowlers who are just looking for spare change may find it and decide to go on a joy ride. There has been an increase in this form of vehicle theft this year so please be conscientious!

 

Please enjoy the holidays and be safe!

 

Kirk Kimberly

 

Detective Kirk Kimberly

KKimberly@SpokanePolice.org


Check out the newest newsletter from Officer Kirk Kimberly regarding Vandalism/Malicious Mischief

October 27, 2016

 

October 2016 Newsletter: Property Crime and Malicious Mischief

 

The Halloween season is a strange one. For most of the year, parents tell their children not to take candy from strangers, then for one night, parents not only allow their children to take candy from strangers, but they actually encourage the practice! Strange… As we get older and trick or treating either gets boring or starts yielding less candy, many people turn to criminal activity to alleviate boredom or to get back at someone who did not give them candy. Property crime is the crime du jour for this time of year and malicious mischief if exceptionally common.

There are many different forms that property crimes can take. The most common property crimes include:

RCW 9A.48.070: Malicious mischief in the first degree. A person is guilty of malicious mischief in the first degree if he or she knowingly and maliciously causes physical damage to the property of another in an amount exceeding five thousand dollars.

RCW 9A.48.080: Malicious mischief in the second degree. A person is guilty of malicious mischief in the second degree if he or she knowingly and maliciously causes physical damage to the property of another in an amount exceeding seven hundred fifty dollars.

RCW 9A.48.090: Malicious mischief in the third degree. A person is guilty of malicious mischief in the third degree if he or she: knowingly and maliciously causes physical damage to the property of another, under circumstances not amounting to malicious mischief in the first or second degree; writes, paints, or draws any inscription, figure, or mark of any type on any public or private building or other structure or any real or personal property owned by any other person unless the person has obtained the express permission of the owner or operator of the property, under circumstances not amounting to malicious mischief in the first or second degree.

Malicious mischief manifests when the suspect breaks or harms the property of another such as breaking the heads off of yard gnomes… for those of us that have ‘em. Under similar circumstances, stealing yard ornaments constitutes theft. Arson is commonly seen on Halloween. An example of a Halloween prank that is criminal is putting dog fecal matter in a brown bag, putting it on a front porch, lighting the bag and hitting the doorbell (then run off). This has the potential to harm life as well as property. No one is particularly safe from various Halloween behaviors. To help curb this type of victimization, watch out for strangers in your neighborhood. The best deterrent occurs when the potential perpetrators know they are being watched. If you do not want to call police, please utilize campus security if you see something or someone suspicious. Campus security is eager to make sure you are safe.

 

Feel free to contact me with questions as well! Be safe and have a happy Halloween!

 

Detective Kirk Kimberly

Spokane Police Department

KKimberly@SpokanePolice.org


Clown Craze

October 7, 2016

 

Campus Safety and Public Security Blog Post

Since summer, the sighting of creepy or scary clowns has spread across the country. In many states, people have reported seeing clowns standing on the side of roads at night, in parking lots, outside schools, near wooded areas and on community trails.  There is really no specific explanation why a phenomenon like the clown story takes off.  CNN.com offered several suggestions in a recent story called “What’s with all the clowns everywhere?”

Gonzaga University is not immune to this phenomenon. According to the Spokane Police Department, there have been a few calls for service regarding creepy clowns; however, no confirmed sightings of creepy clowns in the Logan neighborhood or surrounding area were found. Wednesday night, that all changed – we captured a creepy clown on campus.  It was one of your classmates out in black clothing and a clown mask looking to “stare and scare” his peer group.

Creepy or scary clowns are people dressing up to startle others. They are not real. They are people in costume.  Creepy or scary clowns are not a real threat to you or this University. This is a fad that is capitalizing on fear and being fueled by rumor. As evidenced Wednesday night, it is also an opportunity for a fellow Zag to startle others for a laugh at someone else’s expense. Campus Security & Public Safety will alert the campus community in the event any real threat is confirmed.

Gonzaga Security & Public Safety rely on Gonzaga students, staff and faculty to inform us of potential dangers on and near campus. Please call CSPS at 509-313-2222 at any time to report any suspicious activity so we can respond appropriately to keep our community safe.  This includes calling us about people in clown costumes lurking in the shadows.

Safety tips:

  • Always walk in groups when on or near campus at night.
  • Call CSPS for an escort if you are alone or feel unsafe
  • Keep your cell phone charged and available while walking in the neighborhood
  • Utilize Blue Light phones if you don’t have a cell phone
  • Avoid dark alleys and trails
  • Be aware of your surroundings
  • Lock your vehicle/residence door once you are inside
  • ALWAYS report anything suspicious to Campus Security

 

 


SCOTT SNIDER

Director
Campus Security and Public Safety

PHONE 509-313-2290
www.gonzaga.edu


Check out the newest newsletter from Officer Kirk Kimberly regarding Sexual Assault

September 29, 2016

 

September 2016 Newsletter: Sexual Assault

 

Hello! Hopefully everyone got off to a great start to the year! This month, I will talk about sexual assault as it is a problem on campuses, as well as throughout society. In comparisons between the Uniform Crime Reports (UCR’s) collected by the FBI which only include reports made to police, and Crime Victimization Survey data (all crimes according to general population surveys) sexual assaults appear to be grossly under-reported. There are many reasons for this discrepancy including but not limited to embarrassment, guilt, inconvenience, fear, and confusion as to what is a crime. If anyone is interested in looking up sexual assault offenses, here is a list of the Washington criminal laws pertaining to sexual offenses obtained from http://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=9A.44:

 

9A.44.040 Rape in the first degree. 9A.44.086 Child molestation in the second degree.
9A.44.050 Rape in the second degree. 9A.44.089 Child molestation in the third degree.
9A.44.060 Rape in the third degree. 9A.44.093 Sexual misconduct with a minor in the first degree.
9A.44.073 Rape of a child in the first degree. 9A.44.096 Sexual misconduct with a minor in the second degree.
9A.44.076 Rape of a child in the second degree. 9A.44.100 Indecent liberties.
9A.44.079 Rape of a child in the third degree. 9A.44.105 Sexually violating human remains.
9A.44.083 Child molestation in the first degree. 9A.44.115 Voyeurism.

 

 

On college campuses, date rape is the most prevalent form of sexual assault and is reported even less frequently than other forms of sexual assault. Date rape is generally understood as forcible sexual intercourse during a voluntary social engagement in which one party did not intend to submit to the sexual advances and resisted the acts by verbal refusals, denials or pleas to stop, and/or physical resistance. It is not a defense to any of the above crimes that the victim was incapacitated due to being intoxicated or unconscious.

 

Here are some tips to keep in mind to help prevent sexual assault:

You can’t always avoid date rape. However, there are things you can do to minimize the risk of sexual assault.

1) Rape is a crime of power and control. Be aware of controlling behavior in your date or relationship. Most rape survivors recall feeling “uncomfortable” about some of their partner’s behaviors including:

— Intimidating stares, degrading jokes or language, refusal to respond to stated physical limits, refusal to accept “no” as an answer, whether in a sexual context or otherwise, insistence on making all of the “important” decisions about the relationship or date, unwillingness to interact with you as a person rather than a sexual object, extreme jealousy, possessiveness, strong belief in sex role stereotypes, a history of violent behavior.

2) Define yourself and your sexual limits. Your sexual limits are yours alone to define. The first step in preventing abuse is to define your limits clearly to yourself and then to act quickly when a date or partner intentionally or unintentionally crosses your stated boundaries.

3) Set clear limits and be firm. It is your body, and no one has the right to force you to do anything you don’t want to do. If you do not want to be touched, you can say, “Don’t touch me,” or “Stop it, I’m not enjoying this.”

4) Do not give mixed messages. Say “yes” when you mean “yes” and “no” when you mean “no.” Be sure that your words do not conflict with other signals such as eye contact, voice tone, posture or gestures.

5) Be independent and aware on dates and other times. Do not be totally passive. Have opinions about where to go. Think about appropriate places to meet, (not necessarily your room or your date’s.

6) Avoid secluded places where could be vulnerable. If you are unsure of a new person in your life or if this person has exhibited some of the controlling behaviors listed above, suggest a group or double date.

7) Trust your gut feelings. If you feel you are in a dangerous situation, or that you are being pressured, you’re probably right, and you need to respond. Many rape survivors report having had a “bad feeling” about the situation that led to their victimization. If a situation feels bad or you start to get nervous about your date’s behavior, confront the person immediately or leave as soon as possible.

8) If you feel pressured, coerced or fearful: protest loudly, leave and, go for help. Make a scene! Your best defense is to attract attention to the situation if you feel you are in trouble. In an attempt to be nice or avoid embarrassment, you may be reluctant to yell or run away to escape being attacked.

9) Be aware that alcohol and drugs are often related to acquaintance rape. They compromise your ability (and your partner’s ability) to make responsible decisions.

10) Practice self-defense. Knowing in advance how you would respond to a physical threat greatly increases your chances of escape. Anyone can learn self-defense and classes are often available free or at a low cost through schools and community context.

 

Feel free to contact me with questions as well!

 

Be safe!

 

Detective Kirk Kimberly

Spokane Police Department

KKimberly@SpokanePolice.org

 

 

gonzaga-sept-2016-sexual-assault-revised


Advice for the start of the year from SPD Officer Kirk Kimberly

September 15, 2016

Hello and welcome back to school! Since this is my first monthly crime related article for Gonzaga, I would like to introduce myself. I am Detective Kirk Kimberly and I am a 26 year veteran officer with the Spokane Police Department. At the moment, I am assigned to the Spokane Regional Auto Theft Task Force and Gonzaga University is one of my main target areas. I have previously worked on every type of investigation including property crimes, fraud, drugs, and crimes against persons including sexual assaults, assault, burglary, robbery, and homicide. Some of you may already know me as I taught several different Criminal Justice classes at Gonzaga over the years. These articles are meant to provide some insight into crime related issues in and around Gonzaga and provide tips to help prevent victimization. Each month, I will discuss different topics. Feel free to weigh in on topics you want to read about!

With the start of the new school year, I will discuss alcohol related crimes since many people tend to “celebrate” the start of the school year with alcohol. First, let’s try to identify the most common alcohol related crimes. The obvious first choice is driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI). In Washington State, the crime of DUI is governed by RCW 46.61.502 which states that a person is guilty of driving while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, marijuana, or any drug if the person drives a vehicle within this state:

(a) And the person has, within two hours after driving, an alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher as shown by analysis of the person’s breath or blood made under RCW 46.61.506; or

(b) The person has, within two hours after driving, a THC concentration of 5.00 or higher as shown by analysis of the person’s blood made under RCW 46.61.506; or

(c) While the person is under the influence of or affected by intoxicating liquor, marijuana, or any drug; or

(d) While the person is under the combined influence of or affected by intoxicating liquor, marijuana, and any drug.

DID YOU KNOW:

  1. a) According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), on average 2 out of 3 people will be involved in a collision where intoxication is a factor?
  2. b) According to the National Highway Safety Administration, vehicle collisions are the leading cause of death for teens, and about a quarter of those crashes involve an underage drinking driver. One of the saddest cases I worked involved the death of a teen girl where her best friend had driven drunk. Be safe!
  3. c) According to the FBI, in 2014, three times as many males were arrested for drunk driving as females.

 

Disorderly conduct is another common crime associated with alcohol impairment and is governed by Spokane City Municipal Code Section 10.10.020. The code states that no person may intentionally cause, or recklessly create, a risk of unreasonable public inconvenience, annoyance or alarm by:

  1. A) Engaging in fighting or in violent, tumultuous or threatening behavior; or
  2. B) Committing any act which tends to create or incite, or in fact creates or incites, either a violent response and/or an immediate breach of the peace. Such conduct includes without limitation:
  3. Obscene language or gestures; or
  4. Boisterous conduct; or
  5. Personally abusive epithets, or words or language that a reasonable person would find offensive, disgusting or insulting and/or which epithets, words or language are likely to provoke a reaction of fear, anger or apprehension when addressed to a citizen of ordinary sensibilities; or
  6. C) Disturbing any lawful assembly of persons without lawful authority.

 

Obviously there is a tendency for disorderly conduct to morph into other crimes such as assault and malicious mischief (vandalism). Of grave concern is sexual assault on campus. Many campus related sexual assault involve the consumption of alcohol on the part of one or both parties involved. Remember, in no instance is intoxication a defense for any crime. So, enjoy the new school year, but be respectful of each other and personally responsible with you alcohol intake. Next month I will discuss sexual assaults in the University setting.

 

If at any time you have questions about any topic we discuss or any unrelated topic, I can be contacted at 509-625-4069 or KKimberly@SpokanePolice.org. Welcome back and be safe!

 

— Detective Kirk Kimberly

Spokane Police Department


SPD wants to know if any of these bicycle parts belong to you:

March 17, 2016

The Spokane Police Department wants to know if any of these bike parts belong to you.  If you have had a bike or parts stolen, check out the following link and contact the SPD to claim the items you recognize as belonging to you.

https://my.spokanecity.org/police/news/2016/03/03/spokane-police-looking-to-find-owners-of-bike-parts/

Thank You
Brian Best
Crime Prevention and Education Officer


Spring Break security tips for off-campus residents

March 1, 2016

Houses

Let trusted neighbors or friends know you are leaving and ask them to keep an eye on your house.

Leave exterior lights on. Lock all gates, doors and windows. Close all curtains.

If you would like your home checked while you are away on break, the Spokane Police Department Senior Volunteers offer this service. Services are provided Monday through Friday for up to 30 days. All doors and windows are physically checked including any out-buildings on your property. Call the Vacation Home Check Information line at (509)622-5885 if you are interested in having this service provided to you.

Vehicles

If you live off-campus, you may want to park your car on campus over spring break. The City of Spokane only allows parking on the street for up to twelve hours at a time. Consider utilizing the free parking program offered by Campus Public Safety and Security. No permit is required but you must sign up at the CPS&S office located in lower Welch hall. Parking is limited and is on a first-come first-served basis. Campus Security is not responsible for any damage or theft to vehicles if you choose to utilize this program. Remember to lock your vehicle and remove all valuables that may attract unwanted attention.


Safety tips for PEDESTRIANS:

February 9, 2016

Be safe and be seen: make yourself visible to drivers

  • Wear bright/light colored clothing and reflective materials.
  • Carry a flashlight when walking at night.
  • Cross in a well-lit area at night.
  • Stand clear of buses, hedges, parked cars or other obstacles before crossing so drivers can see you.

Be smart and alert: avoid dangerous behaviors

  • Always walk on the sidewalk; if there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic.
  • Stay sober; walking while impaired increases your chance of being struck.
  • Don’t assume vehicles will stop; make eye contact with drivers, don’t just look at the vehicle. If a driver is on a cell phone, they may not be paying enough attention to drive safely.
  • Don’t rely solely on pedestrian signals; look before you cross the road.
  • Be alert to engine noise or backup lights on cars when in parking lots and near on-street parking spaces.

Be careful at crossings: look before you step

  • Cross streets at marked crosswalks or intersections, if possible.
  • Obey traffic signals such as WALK/DON’T WALK signs.
  • Look left, right, and left again before crossing a street.
  • Watch for turning vehicles; make sure the driver sees you and will stop for you.
  • Look across ALL lanes you must cross and visually clear each lane before proceeding. Just because one motorist stops, do not presume drivers in other lanes can see you and will stop for you.
  • Don’t wear headphones or talk on a cell phone while crossing.

Pedestrian safety tips for DRIVERS:

Be alert: watch for pedestrians at all times

  • Scan the road and the sides of the road ahead for potential pedestrians.
  • Before making a turn, look in all directions for pedestrians crossing.
  • Don’t drive distracted or after consuming alcohol or other drugs.
  • Do not use your cell phone while driving.
  • Look carefully behind your vehicle for approaching pedestrians before backing-up, especially small children.
  • For maximum visibility, keep your windshield clean and headlights on.

Be responsible: yield to pedestrians at crossings

  • Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, whether marked or unmarked.
  • Yield to pedestrians when making right or left turns at intersections.
  • Do not block or park in crosswalks.

Be patient: drive the speed limit and avoid aggressive maneuvers

  • Never pass/overtake a vehicle that is stopped for pedestrians.
  • Obey speed limits and come to a complete stop at STOP signs.
  • Use extra caution when driving near children playing along the street or older pedestrians who may not see or hear you.
  • Always be prepared to stop for pedestrians.

Washington State Law Regarding Pedestrians & Crosswalks:


Welcome Back!!!!

January 22, 2016

Welcome back everyone! We are all back into the swing of things with the starting of the new semester and we at Campus Security would like to wish you all a safe weekend. We all know that some old habits are hard to break, so here are a few reminders.
• Program Campus Security’s number in your phone: 509-313-2222
• Remember the public uses our campus as a thoroughfare sometimes so keep that in mind when you leave your residence and when you return.
• Lock your doors and be aware of your surroundings.
• Keep track of your personal items and don’t leave items in your vehicle that may be attractive to a thief.
Most importantly, we are a community, a family, and we strive to watch out for and protect each other. Stay in groups if you can and if you find yourself separated from your friends, call Campus Security for an escort. If you see suspicious activity (things that make you go hmmm….) call Campus Security.
Take care of each other and if you or your friends need assistance in any way, Campus Security will help.
Have a great weekend and good luck this semester!

Brian Best
Crime Prevention and Education Officer
Gonzaga University
bestb@gonzaga.edu
509-313-4018


Winter Break Safety

December 16, 2015

Campus Security and Public Safety will be on duty throughout the break and reminds everyone to secure your valuables while you are away.

• Please lock all your windows and doors.
• Keep items of value out of sight.
• If you have a permitted vehicle, leave it in the Barc, on the 3rd or 4th floor. Call us with your information.
• If you have a non-permitted vehicle, leave it in the lot on the west side of Knights of Columbus. Call us with your information.
• Lock and remove everything from your vehicle.
• If you have a bike bring it indoors. Leave it in your room or in a common area, but keep it locked up with your u-lock.
• If you will be staying at GU over the break please call x2222 if you see anything or anyone that looks out of place

Thank you and enjoy the holiday


RUN HIDE FIGHT – Response to active shooter.

December 4, 2015

Here are two pamphlets that contain some of the information that you may have seen on the news, regarding active shooter.  Please check the below links, and stay tuned for Run, Hide, Fight training’s coming your way.

Pocket Card:

https://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/publications/active_shooter_pocket_card_508.pdf

Pamphlet:

http://www.dhs.gov/publication/active-shooter-pamphlet


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