Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Police Department section of Ask UGA FAQ

Is the University of Georgia campus safe?
Yes! The University of Georgia campus is a safe campus. This does not mean crime does not occur; however, violent crime is rare. Use common sense crime prevention techniques to lessen your chance of becoming a victim.
Is it safe to walk on campus?
Yes! As stated previously, violent crime occurs but is rare. Most instances of violent crime occur in the late evening hours. Lighting surveys are conducted each semester to upgrade existing infrastructure. Priority is given to residential areas and areas experiencing high pedestrian traffic. A common sense approach should be the rule of thumb for those walking on campus late at night.
What crime occurs most often?
Minor theft of property occurs most often. Any property left unattended and/or visible to the general public is vulnerable. Roughly 50% reported crimes are thefts. Most thefts are the result of personal property left unattended and in public view.
Are the dormitories safe?
Yes! The UGA Police Department receives very few calls for assistance, of a criminal nature, from the many dormitories on campus. Tightened security measures in the dormitories have reduced actual crime and the perception of crime.
Are the parking decks safe?
Yes! Parking Services stations personnel 24 hours a day in three of the five parking decks most commonly utilized during all hours. Even with the steps taken to prevent crime and to ensure safety in the decks, crime does occur. The crimes that have occurred most often in the past include thefts from vehicles or damage to vehicles. Of the 2 reported incidents in 2002 that occurred in the parking decks, one was a public indecency and one was a simple battery.
I have heard stories about the 'date rape' drug rohypnol. Has there been any instance of its use on the University of Georgia campus?
There have been no reported cases to the University of Georgia Police Department of its use on the University of Georgia campus. This does not mean that it has not been used . . . only that there has been no report of its use. Only recently has there been a confiscation of this drug in the Athens community.
Are there illegal drugs on campus?
Yes! There are those who use and sell illegal drugs. Possession, use and distribution of illegal drugs is a violation of state law and those caught will be prosecuted. The Police Department works with local law enforcement agencies to reduce the availability of drugs in the community.
Is there an escort service available to students?
Yes! The escort service operates during the academic period beginning when classes commence in the Fall and ending when classes end in May . The service is restricted to the University of Georgia campus and Milledge Avenue. The service operates during the evening hours.
How can I compare crime statistics of the University of Georgia with other colleges and universities?
There are several easy ways. Each school is required to make available annual crime statistics. A direct request to a school will enable you to get the statistics. Many of the school’s police department’s, including the University of Georgia Police Department, will post crime statistics on their web page. A second way would be to go to a library and request the Uniform Crime Reports published by the U.S. Department of Justice. Lastly, the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Post Secondary Education receives crime statistics annually from colleges and universities nationwide. These statistics can be viewed at the U.S. Department of Education’s web site.
If I am under 21 and get caught for Underage Possession of Alcohol, what will happen to me?
If you are under the legal age for consumption of alcohol in the State of Georgia, you will probably be arrested for underage possession of alcohol. Possession includes alcohol that you have already consumed and alcohol in any type of container, whether open or not. If you are arrested, you will face criminal prosecution which may include fines and/or other punishments through the State Court of Athens-Clarke County and you will be referred to Judicial Programs for possible University sanctions.
If I am arrested, where will I be taken and how do I get out of jail?
If you are arrested, you will be taken to the Athens-Clarke County Jail. If you are arrested by the UGA police, you may be brought to the UGA police department for the booking process (paperwork, fingerprints, photographs, etc.) before being transported to jail. There are no separate jail facilities for students. To get out of jail, you will be required to post a bond to insure your appearance in court. The bond will be determined by the Athens-Clarke County Sheriff's Office and will be based on the crime or crimes with which you have been charged.
Are pedestrians safe on campus?
Yes! Although there have been well-publicized accidents involving pedestrians, which have occurred on campus, pedestrians are relatively safe. There are clearly marked crosswalks and pedestrian signals. However, if pedestrians disregard traffic signals, cross streets outside of crosswalks, or simply are not paying attention to what they are doing, accidents can occur.
Will my vehicle be safe on campus?
Generally vehicles are safe. However, in 2002, of the 34,000 vehicles registered on campus, there were 177 vehicles illegally entered and 17 vehicles reported stolen. Thieves target vehicles for different reasons. The vehicle itself is targeted because there is a demand for that vehicle or the property inside. The vehicle attracts the thief. Expensive stereo equipment and loose, personal property easily seen by the thief can make the vehicle more attractive. Parking the vehicle in well lighted and traveled areas may reduce the vulnerability of a particular vehicle being a target. There have been very few instances where vehicles with alarms were entered or stolen.
What are possible incidents where drivers under the age of 21 can loose their driver's license?
Conviction of a driver under the age of 21 for any of the following offenses will mean the revocation of the individual's driver's license for 6 months for the first offense and 12 months for the second offense:
  • DUI
  • Eluding or attempting to elude a police officer
  • Racing
  • Reckless driving
  • Hit and run
  • Leaving the scene of an accident
  • Purchasing of an alcoholic beverage by a minor
  • Speeding over 24 mph
  • Underage possession of alcohol
Is it safe to lock my bicycle outside while on campus?
The answer to this question depends on what lengths you are willing to go in order to secure your bicycle. Too often students place cheap cable locks on very expensive bicycles. Bicycle thieves are looking for easy targets. Cheap locks or improperly secured locks are an open invitation to thieves. If you are going to bring an expensive bike to campus, spend a few extra dollars on a quality locking device and learn how to properly secure your bike with it. The few extra seconds you spend securing your bike properly will go a long way toward discouraging thieves.
What can parents do to assist their son or daughter in selecting a residence not on campus?

There are many good places to reside in the Athens area. Parents are encouraged to accompany their son or daughter during the selection process because some parents first see the rental property after a lease is signed and then question the decision. Usually college students will not ask the same probing questions parents ask, such as: What kind of windows, doors and locks are used? Are there smoke detectors? Are there outside security lights? Does the complex provide an on-site security service and is there available parking?

Before a lease is signed, you should ask if you would feel comfortable living in the residence.

Before making the final decision check with the Athens-Clarke County Police Department (706-613-3330) and Safe Campuses Now Inc. (706-354-1115) to find out the types and number of crimes committed in the area in which your son or daughter desires to live.

What advice would you give to parents who are feeling anxious about their son or daughter going off to school?

Parents should have as much contact as possible with their son or daughter while that son or daughter is away at school. With E-mail it is easier to get messages back and forth. The problem with E-mail is you cannot hear their voice. Parents know their children better than anyone else. If you hear something that does not sound right you might want to investigate further. Visit your son or daughter at times other than on special weekends, if possible, as maintaining this contact will reassure both you and your child.