By Janelle Henderson

A string of crimes ranging from robberies to theft to vandalism near campus have left some University of Louisville Properties residents asking for a change.

One safety concern that has been raised is that non-residents often follow residents into the ULP apartment complexes. Unlike most dorms on campus, ULP residences – Billy Minardi Hall, Herman & Heddy Kurz Hall and Bettie Johnson Hall – do not require guests to sign in as they enter the building, and oftentimes residents will unknowingly hold the door open for non-residents.

While many dorms require residents to unlock one door at the main entrance and another at a hallway entrance, residents at ULP only need to use a key once to enter the residence area, making it easier for uninvited guests to enter.

A 42-year old non-student was arrested in August for stealing bicycles around campus. He had allegedly stolen multiple bikes from Bettie Johnson Hall.

“It’s kind of weird having people walk in behind me because you really don’t know who lives here or not, but I don’t know how this can be prevented,” said freshman London Thomas, a first-year Kurz Hall resident.

Senior Sarah Hughes said that it’s a hazard having people walk in the building behind her, and she said the managers haven’t tried to correct the issue.

University of Louisville Properties managers and resident assistants declined to comment.

While some students would like more safety precautions to be instituted, the majority of residents seem to be in favor of fewer restrictions. Last year, residents were given the option to have more enforced security with guest sign-ins and restricted visitation hours, but residents voted against both measures.

Allen & O’Hara Education Services, Inc., is the national student apartment chain that owns ULP. Spokesman Bob Hetherington advised residents to exercise personal responsibility and utilize the services of the Department of Public Safety.

ULP strives to make security a priority with video monitors at both residence hall and the Department of Public Safety monitoring the parking lot adjacent to the residences, Hetherington said.

Freshman Camille Moore said she feels secure living in Bettie Johnson because of the round-the-clock surveillance.

“We have 24-hour security. Plus, after a certain time, we have certified security guards working the front desk, and there’s only one entrance to get into,” she said.

Residents can also stay alert about crimes through the DPS crime log at http://www.louisville.edu/admin/dps/police/police_home.htm and a newsletter distributed by ULP.

“We publish a regular monthly newsletter for our residents and we are able to share news, information and tips, as appropriate. And we have shared reminders about keeping valuables and vehicles secure,” Hetherington said.

More immediate notification is available through flyers and postings on boards at the entrance of each building.

“They usually put something in our mailbox, or write a very noticeable notice on a large board as soon as you walk into the door. There’s no way you can miss it,” Moore said.

Although crimes occurring at ULP are more publicized than other crimes on campus, security is an issue affecting the entire campus, Moore pointed out. But she feels DPS works hard to fully aid students.

“I have seen DPS and security guards doing their jobs numerous times. It’s good to actually see them enforcing the rules and laws. It makes me feel more protected,” she said.

Sophomore Jakeria Everette has lived at Bettie Johnson Hall for over a year. She said it’s not the safety of inside of the building that concerns her.

“I feel safe when I finally reach the inside of the building. But I don’t feel safe when I am walking from my car or back from campus,” she said.

Safety is one factor leading Everette to make plans for moving off-campus next year.

On Aug. 21, 23 automobiles were broken into in the parking lot between Kurz and Bettie Johnson Halls.

“Next year I plan on living somewhere else, like in my own apartment. I don’t like having to park so far away from the building when I get home at night, and having to walk so far and not feel safe,” she said.

While DPS does help patrol outside of the building, ULP provides its own security for inside its apartment complexes.