This open letter from Chief Farrow was originally published on the UC Davis News website on Oct. 17, 2019.

To the campus community,

I know that the recent reports of thefts, burglaries and break-ins in the city of Davis and campus buildings have raised fear and concerns among many of you. While these incidents are indeed troubling, I’d like to reassure you that both the UC Davis Police Department and Davis PD are working to investigate each incident, and have identified suspects and made arrests in several of the cases.

Our university is not unique in experiencing a rise in opportunistic crimes, such as people stealing valuables left in plain sight or from offices and buildings left unsecured. There are unfortunately people that come to our community to commit crimes. Our goal is to make UC Davis and UC Davis Health safe places to live, work and learn. It’s equally important that we prepare each of you with knowledge and resources that can help you avoid being a victim. 

I want you to know that your safety is our first priority, and remind you that our campus community is relatively safe. We have several safety and security projects underway — including lighting enhancement, security cameras and emergency call box installations. Also, we are moving forward with a new-generation building access system that when completed will greatly enhance the safety of our campus community. Even with our efforts, it is always important to watch out for one another, and notify campus authorities when you see things that seem out of place, unusual, dangerous or otherwise suspicious — always trust your instincts.

The UC Davis Police Department website includes tips for your safety and security on campus and at home, on a bike, or whenever you’re out and about in Davis and Sacramento. While our officers will promptly respond to concerns you report, you can often prepare yourself for these situations — this requires staying alert to your surroundings, locking doors and windows, and walking with friends or getting a ride at night. We provide Aggie Safe Rides for your well-being, so if you are uncomfortable walking to your car or leaving campus, please call 530-754-2677 or use the TapRide app (learn more about TapRide).

Please share this information with your friends and colleagues, and if you see something suspicious, remember to call 9-1-1. By working together we can ensure a safe, friendly and vibrant Aggie community.

Joseph Farrow
Chief of Police