Reported crimes on and near Ball State University's campus spiked during Winter Break, which is a trend that has developed over recent years, according to police.
Gene Burton, director of public safety, said the increase in crime, most of which were burglaries and thefts, is most likely because of students leaving the campus area during Winter Break, leaving their valuables unprotected.
"It doesn't happen every break, necessarily," Burton said, "but we definitely try and have some extra patrols over the course of the break."
There were 12 crimes reported during Winter Break - five burglaries, six thefts and one theft of a motor vehicle, Burton said.
During the 2006-07 Winter Break, there were nine crimes reported, most of which were burglaries and thefts, he said.
"That is definitely an increase of the normal or average reports that we would get in the same time span at a different time of year," Burton said.
Burton said burglary usually includes forced entry, while theft usually means the area in question was not secure, such as an unlocked house, apartment or dorm room.
Chief Joe Winkle of the Muncie Police Department said his department also saw a jump in reported crimes during Winter Break, mostly east of campus which is an area where many students live.
"Obviously we see an increase in the student housing area every year," Winkle said. "It could be [Muncie residents] or it could be students who don't go home over break."
Winkle said his department encourages students to pack up or secure any valuables they have on campus before they leave for a break in order to prevent them from being stolen.
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
