Sabrina Hernandez
      Staff Writer

UNC-Greensboro Police held a series of forums last week to engage students to discuss recent crime notifications on campus.

Due to concern over frequent alert e-mails that have included crimes such as rape and brandishing of a gun,  the UNCG Police and Student Government Association encouraged students to attend the police and sexual harassment forums held last week.

These were intended for students to have a one-on-one conversation with Police Major Paul Lester, who informed students on the reason behind the extensive e-mails. Lester stressed that much of what is written in the e-mails is required by the federal government. Many students expressed concern about the length of the e-mails and asked if the length of the e-mails could be condensed. Lester said they would try their best.

Many students were concerned about the expression that has come up a few times, regarding the “all clear” message when a culprit has left the immediate area of crime. This was confusing, due to the fact that the students were still unsure if the area was safe. Police officials then assured the students that “all clear” will not be used in future messages. Instead, “final notice” will be used. Officials believe these words will be more effective for the community to understand.

During this police forum, the officers expressed excitement to participate in the safety walk coming up soon and said they enjoy meeting students on campus. They also emphasized that since there have been more crimes on campus, police officers will make more of an effort to be social with students.

During the sexual harassment forum, it was announced that there was also a change in the wording of the notification of rape emails. The former “forcibly fondling” is no longer in use, and the proper use of the phrase “sexually assaulted” will now be used in correspondence with students.

UNCG Police told students these emails will be condensed and less standardized. They discussed how to prevent sexual crimes and the resources one can use on campus to assure safety. This includes self-defense classes offered by the university and the Wellness Center, which includes counseling. Finally, the forum emphasized the culture of consent.

Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Cherry Callahan recently explained in a mass email how UNCG cares deeply about the safety of its students and the larger community. According to the e-mail, students are hearing more about sexual assaults now because of changes in reporting requirements.

Callahan shared some statistics on the issue, noting that nationally 51 percent of female rape and sexual assault victims were raped by a current or former intimate partner, and 41 percent were raped by an acquaintance. Of men and boys, 52 percent report being raped by an acquaintance.

“We share these statistics because we believe in safety through awareness,” said Callahan in the email.

She emphasized the importance of taking every step possible to ensure campus safety.  Callahan emphasized the fact that a person who is incapacitated by alcohol or other drugs cannot lawfully give consent.

Callahan noted a perception that “campus police never catch anyone.” UNCG sends out alerts when safety concerns are present.

She stated that  “We [the university] do not send alerts when suspects are arrested, which gives the false impression that arrests aren’t made.”

UNCG Police also noted its work goes beyond the physical boundaries of UNCG, as police recognize that many students live off campus in nearby neighborhoods. They also encouraged students to follow them on social media @UNCGPolice.