While walking to class on Friday, students at the University of Houston noticed security guards on bikes and patrols near parking garages.
This comes one week after a student was sexually assaulted at knifepoint in the Welcome Center Parking Garage. 40-year-old Eric Brown is accused of the crime and remains on the run. UH said it has now increased police presence with UHPD doubling the number of security personnel in a very short period.
The University said plans are underway to further expand the police force, with additional details being announced soon. Enhanced security monitoring is also ramping up. UH officials said new security staff is patrolling campus grounds and buildings 24/7, with a particular focus on parking lots and high traffic areas.
KPRC2 Reporter Corley Peel spoke with students about the security upgrades.
“At first, I didn’t but I went to the opera last night and when we came back around midnight, they had multiple cops set around the welcome center. For the most part, yes security is up, but it still doesn’t feel very safe.
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“I think they included some more officers in parking lots and garages. I think some of the response is tone deaf and I think some of the response is not appropriate or not the extent that a lot of the students want,” said Isaac Lopez.
Lopez and Gillen said they would like to see more lighting on campus. Gillen said its unnerving knowing Brown is still on the run.
REACTIONS: University of Houston student points out safety concerns after several recent attacks
“I have a little bit of pepper spray with me. I had it in my dorm duct taped the first semester, but definitely busted it out the second semester. I walk in a buddy system to my night class. I have faith that UH will get it together and figure stuff out, but until then we just try to do our best,” said Gillen.
“Our efforts will continue to be focused on providing a safe learning and working environment for our entire community. Please stay vigilant, report any suspicious activity to UHPD at (713) 743-3333, and utilize campus safety resources.
We acknowledge and understand your continued concerns regarding campus safety,” UH officials.