Loney Rough Draft

It takes a lot to shock Chief of Security, Carl Loney, because after eight years of being on the Wittenberg University Police Department things from, students running naked in the hallow to snakes popping out of flush valves in bathrooms, “It has all become a part of life” Chief Loney says.

After spending 30 years with the Sheriff’s Department, Chief Loney retired and decided to join to the Wittenberg Police Department. The force has fourteen officers including Loney, and also gets an average of 2,100 to 2,200 calls a month. Chief Loney explains, “We have full police authority, we are no different from Springfield police, Urbana police, or even Cincinnati police.”

“It’s not us against them; we’re really looking for the element that doesn’t belong.” Chief Loney went on to explain that when new members join the force he tries to explain the social environment around Wittenberg University to them, and to be lenient and help the students, instead of only try to get them in trouble.

When asked on a lighter note, “What is your reaction towards streaking the hallow?” Chief Loney smirked and said “Streaking the Hallow has been going on since day one. It ain’t like robbing a bank in my book. It’s ‘fun’ I guess if you will, but at least they aren’t breaking windows.” Streaking the Hallow began in 1971, and has now become a tradition among students.

Just like most other college campuses the biggest crime problem is alcohol infractions. However, Chief Loney said, “Students seem a little tamer these days, a little less wild.” Alcohol arrests have gone down 20 from 2008-2009.

One good thing about the Wittenberg University Police Department is the escort service. By calling a phone number the Police will drop you off, or pick you up in whatever kind of need. Even if it includes bars, and parties, “Just don’t vomit in our cars” Chief Loney said.

Escort services have increased to about 30 calls an hour on Friday and Saturday nights. Between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m. they get about ten calls an hour. That’s considered the busy time. Just wanting to make sure the students are safe, Chief Loney expresses the importance of having the escort service and to not be afraid to call them when someone is in need.

As far as sex crimes and date rape go on campus, Chief Loney said, “One if four students will be victimized.” He then explained that the statistics the Police Department has are not as accurate as they could be because of the crime not being reported that often. “Sex offenses, as we all know, are under reported. Do report it because you may prevent another person from getting victimized.”

As Chief Loney finished up the interview he expressed his love of working on a police force and with Wittenberg University students, “Things have changed for the better; the students seem a lot more respectful.”