Crime on Grounds on the down swing

Crime decreased by 13 percent last year compared to 1999 statistics, according to the University Police department. Criminal incidents on Grounds went down from 420 in 1999 to 365 in 2000.

University Chief of Police Michael Sheffield attributed the reduction to more of a "security attitude" among students and staff, plus his department's efforts.

"Since small larcenies make up the largest number of crime index incidents that occur at the University, individuals can be particularly effective in reducing crime by merely insuring that their valuables are protected," he said.

Sheffield also said that although the number of incidents of crimes against individuals is low, his force will work to reduce them further.

The categories are reported through the FBI's Incident-based Reporting System.