The image above showcases the only bike rack available to the residents of Wilber Residence Hall. Unfortunately, bikes parked at this rack have either been stolen or vandalized, but nothing can be done due to the lack of security footage and cameras in the back lot of the residence hall.

The residents of Wilber Residence Hall on the Hattiesburg campus of the University of Southern Mississippi are living in fear and uncertainty. Our bikes are vandalized or stolen, our cars damaged, and we ourselves are afraid. Each time we approach the University police officers, we find ourselves lacking in solid proof or evidence to support our claims. We are then turned away and our claims are then ignored, never to be resolved. This has left us feeling vulnerable and unprotected in our own safe spaces. Our home away from home. Places we pay over $2,000 a semester to stay. This is a situation no one should ever have to tolerate. 

As per the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS), only 29% of stolen bicycles are recovered, mainly due to lack of evidence, and about 86% of damaged property crimes are unresolved due to the same reason (Bureau of Justice Statistics, 2018). Furthermore, Federal Campus Safety Study data revealed that installing security cameras on campus significantly reduced the crime rate (Clery Center, 2017). Considering this evidence, we feel that the implementation of security cameras can greatly help in addressing our predicament.

We, the residents of Wilber Residence Hall, urgently petition the administration to install security cameras in the back area (parking lot, bike racks, laundry room, 1910 BBQ restaurant, construction site, etc) of our residence hall. Not only would this provide the necessary evidence for identifying perpetrators of crime, but more importantly, it can help deter potential threats. We hope this will foster a safer environment and build a stronger Golden Eagle community. We appeal to you to take swift action. Please sign this petition in support.

Southern Miss, To The Top! 💛🖤🦅