Stockton is known for its high foreclosures, unemployment rate and crime.
Delta College, on the other hand, has been considered an “island of safety” compared to the city itself, according to Delta College Police Sgt. Mario Vasquez.
But the community college is not void from crime.
A strong-armed robbery at the beginning of the semester serves as a reminder that students on campus should be aware of their surroundings.
A student was approached from behind while walking through the Shima parking lot and listening to his mp3 player, during the incident. The suspect snatched the mp3 player and fled.
“It’s unfortunate when strong-arm robberies occur, but you have to be aware of your surroundings,” said Vasquez. “Trust your instinct.”
Campus police notified students, faculty and staff of the incident and provided tips for crime prevention.
Vigilance is the bottom line.
Big dollar items such as cell phones and laptops are often left unattended with trust that a classmate or someone nearby will keep an eye open for theft. It’s a recurring problem not only on Delta’s campus but something to look out for wherever you are. The advice: Don’t do it.
Landscaping has contributed to safety measures by raising tree canopies to a minimum of four feet to ward lurkers from hiding in the brush.
Custodians lock the campus no later than 11p.m., an hour after late classes dismiss.
Crime on campus has left students without transportation, via bicycle theft and without other high priced items.
If you wouldn’t leave your car unlocked, why your bicycle? According to Vasquez, the best way to secure a bicycle is to use a U-shaped Kryptonite Lock.
“It’s the best kind,” he said.
Although the cost of this lock starts at $50, the investment is worth it, he added.
Other locks such as cable chains and combinations should be avoided due to the high probability of defeat.
“I’ve had a chain before, and I seen guys trying to pull on it and see if was loose. Then I got a bar because its not easy to brake into,” said student Raul Silvestre, 18.