Students call for improved security measures amid mounting allegations

By Mylasia Miklas, '20

This past semester, students have taken to the Texas A&M University at Galveston student app to voice a growing demand for the implementation of surveillance cameras within residential parking lots.

Multiple students posted photos showing damage that has been inflicted on their vehicles while parked in the various residential lots on campus.

Surveillance cameras are not present within parking lots on campus due to the financial burden cameras possess. However, Grant Shallenberger, Associate Vice President for Administration and Auxiliary Services, is working towards their future implementation.

TAMUG Police Chief Sam Martinez believes a surveillance system would be helpful. “I would love to have extra eyes and ears in the parking lot, but right now I have to rely on students and staff to be my eyes and ears,” said Martinez.

However, Martinez does acknowledge that the upkeep of cameras is not cheap and will pose as a challenging task. Equipment must be capable of withstanding inclement weather and be durable enough to operate 24 hours a day.

Martinez also explains that while a surveillance system will provide reassurance, it will not be able to completely eradicate the issue.” Unfortunately, cameras themselves do not always show you everything,” said Martinez “it is not like a television that gives you a completely clear picture all the time.”

While many students have taken to the student app to voice their frustrations, campus police have only received 2 reports of vehicle damage.

“I understand there is a lot of people talking about it, but I only have 2 reports,” explained Martinez.

Chief Martinez stresses that it is important to report any damage or criminal mischief to the TAMUG police. This will allow campus police to obtain a better understanding of where the activity is taking place and reduce it.

If you need to file a report, the University Police Department can be found in the Sea Aggie Center (SAGC) or reached by dialing (409)- 740-4545.