Nine different crimes, 114 in total, all within a half-mile radius of the Mid-Pacific campus. 

Theft, vandalism, fraud, DUI, assault, burglary and vehicle theft have all been reported near campus since the beginning of the school year, according to statistics available online from the Honolulu Police Department. 

The biggest crime that happens near campus is theft of personal property. Nearly 40 instances of this  were reported to HPD since the beginning of the school year. 

Many students on campus may not realize the importance of personal safety in the area surrounding campus.  

“Don’t show off your stuff and be aware of where you take your cell phone out,” said Sergeant Brian Tokita from the Honolulu Police Department. He said it is important to know when to take your phone out because many phones are stolen right out of people’s hands. 

Paul Laudermilk, Director of safety and security for Mid-Pacific, said “Students and faculty should always be cognizant of their surroundings. If you see something, say something.” 

This semester, security added cones at the front gate of the school due to new security changes. 

“Between the hours of 8:15am and 1:45pm, vehicles and pedestrians entering campus will be closely monitored. This additional security procedure is part of a continuing effort to ensure the safety of our Mid-Pacific ‘Ohana,” according to an email sent to the school community. 

“We make sure that people coming onto campus belong here,” said Loudermilk. 

The change is part of an ongoing assessment of security, he said. 

“Even if something is going well, it’s good to take an assessment of things because there is always room for improvement,” said Loudermilk.

Another area of concern is off-campus parking. Of the 114 crimes reported in the area, 13 were vehicle theft/break ins. Many upperclassmen park in the streets surrounding campus, so students should always make sure they keep their cars safe, said Tokita.   

“Keep your car safe by parking in well lit areas that are close to security cameras or getting a car alarm and try to park in highly populated areas,” said Tokita.

“Criminals in general are lazy, they will go for an easier target like an unlocked car,” said Loudermilk. 

Samantha Makiya, a junior who drives to school and parks off campus said “I always lock my doors and try not to drive in sketchy places alone at night.” 

Another leading cause of vehicle break-ins besides unlocked cars relates to expensive belongings left for criminals to see and target said Loudermilk. 

“If criminals see a car that’s unlocked or if your car has visible items of value, such as an expensive bag or suitcase for example, this will increase the risk of your car getting broken into,” said Loudermilk. 

Sophomore Kodey Shojinaga also parks off campus. “I try my best not to leave any valuables in my car,” said Shojinaga.