Crime happens. Everybody knows that.

Unfortunately, no matter how hard anyone tries, there will still be people throughout all walks of life preying on unexpecting victims. College campuses are no different.

Regardless of how neighborly the residence halls may become, there will always be the fear of having something stolen for no reason other than the opportunity presenting itself.

Despite the campus renovations, there will be hooligans willing to vandalize public property just because they can.

It’s a sad fact of life, but one we deal with every day.

Yet, NIU has taken several preventative steps to crack down against pointless – though all crime can be argued as pointless – incidents on campus.

Though no actions will ever erase criminal activity entirely, installing video cameras in crowded areas and popularizing the University Police’s “Operation ID” program both enhance a student’s right to safety.

The surveillance cameras in Barsema Hall will deter a portion of vandalism and break-in attempts.

This will ensure one of the university’s top buildings can remain in top condition by not battling juvenile attacks by DeKalb’s most ignorant. The cameras may not only catch past perpetrators, but prevent further damage.

Also, promoting a program which engraves student’s valuables can do no harm.

Considering the program has existed for a dozen years, the small number of students using this resource is astounding.

The university understands that all crime is not extinguishable, but most crime is preventable.

At least if the right effort is made.

Agree? Disagree? Contact us at

www.northernstar.info.