Random drug searches and being more visible on Prairie View A&M University’s campus has helped the local police department with the decrease of drug related criminal activity.
Sergeant Frank Wallace, department of public safety, said, “We put on a Drug Symposium every year. The symposium is to educate students on consequences and how illegal drugs, prescription drugs, and alcohol abuse and how it can affect your mind.”
The Main Campus Crime Report, Arrest and Disciplinary Referral Statistics show a record of 24 reported cases in 2010 and only 9 reported cases in 2011.
“We as a department are always willing to improve and enhance the safety on campus and reduce crime and drug activity. The Department of Public Safety takes action on each reported case. Once the evidence is retrieved, depending on the amount, an arrest will be made. Otherwise all cases go to the office of Student Conduct,” said Wallace.
Although the number of cases are decreasing, each case is handled differently.
Denise Simmons, student conduct officer, said, “Each drug case that comes to my office is handled differently depending on the logistics of the case at hand. In your planner in the code of conduct, there is a section called Illegal Drugs & Controlled Substances and Sanctions A and B can be applied to each case.”
Some students believe more can be done to decrease the number of drug related cases and young people have a greater influence with their peers than most adults.
Drea Reynolds, a sophomore social work major, said, “We could talk to our peers and let them know that their decisions will affect their future and corporate America will not tolerate a drug record.”
Meghan Guidry, senior marketing and finance major ,agreed and said, “Lead by example, show them there are other ways to relax, have fun, and fit in than to smoke marijuana.”
Student Government Association is working with the police department to reduce the number of marijuana related offenses. SGA suggests using undercover cops, undercover cars, and surveillance.