University police tackle drug problems

Prairie View A&M University has shown a decrease in drug related criminal activity in recent years.
 The Main Campus Crime Report, Arrest and Disciplinary Referral Statistics in 2010 showed there were 24 reported cases.
In 2011, the report showed only nine cases were reported.
Sergeant Frank Wallace of the department of public safety said, "We as a department are always willing to improve and enhance the safety on campus and reduce crime and drug activity on campus.
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." He also added, "We also put on a drug symposium every year.
The symposium is to educate students on consequences and how illegal drugs, prescription drugs, and alcohol abuse can affect your mind."
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."
Simmons urges students to read the code of conduct located in the official PVAMU planner.
"There is a section called Illegal Drugs & Controlled Substances and Sanctions A and B can be applied to each case," said Simmons.
Students believe there is more that can be done to decrease the drug related cases.
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 that corporate America will not tolerate a drug record."
Some students think we have a greater influence with our peers than most adults.
Meghan Guidry, a senior marketing and finance major, said, "Lead by example, show them that there are other ways to relax, have fun, and fit in than to smoke marijuana."
Students are always welcome to share their ideas about seminars about alcohol, safety and substance abuse at the Department of Pubic Safety.