Vandalism incidents on the decline in Commons

The destruction has come to an end. At least that's what South Campus Commons officials hope.

After 22 incidents last semester, only three acts of vandalism have been reported in the community this year, Manager for Resident Student Conduct Keira Martone wrote in an e-mail.

Damages last year cost $10,000 and Commons officials threatened to raise rent or reduce services in the buildings.

The vandals damaged ceiling tiles, bulletin boards and exit signs, whose replacement and repair is among the most expensive, Martone said.  Two of the incidents occurred during the week of snow, a trend mirrored in other dorms, Martone said.

As of now, no one has been held responsible for acts committed this semester.

While reasons for the recent decline remain uncertain, Martone said actions taken against culprits last semester played no role.  Apprehended students last semester were responsible for only five of the 22 incidents and sanctions are private.

Junior Commons Senator Casey Anis said he thought that students are more concerned with maintaining their own living space.

"I think awareness has played a huge part in the decrease of acts of vandalism because residents are aware and have prevented other residents from doing it," Anis said.

Commons directors sent out newsletters in November informing students about the influx of vandalism and advising them on prevention tactics.

"We've just asked students to take responsibility for their building, so if they do see acts of vandalism to contact staff," Martone said.

The repair costs required Commons to tap into funds originally allocated for other community initiatives, a measure that is not in the interest of other Commons residents, community director Kenyatta Crenshaw said.

"When we have to use money for something unexpected … it just takes away things," Crenshaw said. "We can do better things to support students and support the community."

korkut@umdbk.com