Night escorts get new home

By Linda Prendez, On-Line Forty-Niner

Thursday, December 3, 1998

Waiting for a night escort does not take as long as it used to now that University Police and Community Service Officers have a home in the University Student Union.

The University Police substation, which opened next door to Campus Travel in the South Plaza in the last week of October, has made police services and programs more convenient for students, officals said.

The substation is used mainly to house the University Police support services and crime prevention division, which coordinates outreach programs such as night escorts that are made available free to students. Sgt. Bonnie Myers said the new location, which is "user-friendly" has increased awareness of the services.

"We have quite a few students who've come in, especially during the noon hour when there are concerts," said Myers, who heads the unit at the new substation. "Our main station [located on Palo Verde Avenue on the east side of campus] is so remote."

She added that more students have applied to become CSOs since the substation's opening.

University Police has been working to establish a substation more central to the campus community for a couple of years. The department and Associated Students Inc. signed a barter lease to maintain the location, according to Chief Jack Pearson.

Pearson said that the space is provided in exchange for services.

However, it seems the space is provided for free as a courtesy - A.S.I. had not paid for the services before they were housed in the USU, he said. Pearson said the department will also provide free security services during USU operating hours.

Another benefit to students is an easier trek to the station when reporting crime on campus, Myers added.

"When their wallets are stolen from them out of their backpacks they can report the crime quicker. It's more convenient," she said.

The University Police force is made up of 26 officers, five of who will staff the substation. Thirty-nine student CSOs will be stationed there as well.

The hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 1 a.m., Monday through Thursday; 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 6 to 11 p.m., Sunday.

For more information, students may call (562) 985-8538.