Crime hits lowest rate since early ’70s

By Joe Kleinsasser

Last year, WSU had its lowest number of crimes reported in the last 28 years, according to WSU Police Chief Chuck Rummery.

In addition, WSU had a 23 percent decrease in crime– down to 142 – compared to 1998.

Index crimes tracked by the FBI include four violent crimes – murder, rape, robbery and aggravated assault; and three non-violent crimes – burglary, theft and auto theft.

No violent crimes were reported at WSU last year.           

"We’re very pleased with our campus safety record," said Rummery. "While the past year was excellent, it’s also gratifying that our safety record has been consistently good for the past four years."

Rummery attributed the reduced campus crime to two key factors – a national trend of less crime and ongoing campus safety efforts that include more police staffing, improved lighting, bicycle patrols and improved working relations with city police officers.