Shooting, recent crimes spark outrage among administrators

University administrators expressed outrage and frustration yesterday after learning about the shooting of College senior Patrick Leroy. University President Judith Rodin voiced her concern about the incident, but pointed out that crime has risen in all of Philadelphia, not just in University City. "Crime is on the increase, and it's something we need to confront," Rodin said. She added that she will request additional city police support from Mayor Ed Rendell. She has already spoken with City Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell on the issue. The University has undertaken several initiatives to increase safety and security around campus, she explained. "We do a great deal to protect our people and our property, but we have to do more," Rodin said at yesterday's University Council meeting, adding that the current security coverage "didn't work for Patrick last night, but it's working." Echoing the thoughts of many students, Provost Stanley Chodorow said he was "shocked and upset" when he heard the news. "When these things happen you feel anger and a sense of frustration," Chodorow said. Administrators also moved to bring safety to students' attention in light of the shooting. The Office of the Vice Provost for University Life has asked all resident advisors to discuss security with on-campus residents this week, Associate VPUL Larry Moneta said. "We have to let the police do what they do best and, in the meantime, we just redouble our efforts to get students to still take all the precautions they can," Moneta said. Public Safety officials also detailed a wide range of responses to the recent rash of armed robberies near campus. The University is in negotiations with a security corporation to provide electronic security devices for University buildings, Managing Director of Public Safety Thomas Seamon said. The company would also consolidate guard services around the campus. In addition, University Police have hired four additional investigators recently, bringing the total number to eight. The investigators have led efforts to track down robbery suspects. Seamon said Public Safety will utilize the police force more effectively by sending out more officers in groups, while also dispatching more plainclothes officers. And officials have plans to upgrade blue light phones around campus and to establish a new Public Safety headquarters near 40th Street between Walnut and Chestnut streets, Seamon said. Other administrators have spoken to city officials about creating a special services district to focus on cleanliness and safety, similar to the program established in Center City, according to Executive Vice President John Fry. "In addition to everything else that we're doing -- which is substantial -- we're looking for a much broader concept to bring to University City," he said. In informal discussions, local businesses have expressed interest in working with the University to bring in additional security guards and create a cleaner neighborhood, Fry added. Faculty Senate Chairperson Peter Kuriloff said effective crime prevention depends on student initiative, not just administrative efforts. "There must be community response to mobilize activity," said Kuriloff, an education professor. But Assistant VPUL Barbara Cassell said there is no fail-safe method to avoid being robbed. "The problem is you can't give a whole set of strategies that [say] if you do this you won't be victimized," Cassell said.

Please note All comments are eligible for publication in The Daily Pennsylvanian.