There has been an increase in reported cases of vandalism around campus during the last few weeks, according to the Rex Rakow, director of Notre Dame Security/Police.

However, Rakow is not alarmed by the recent events and attributes the jump mostly to the awareness of students and faculty on campus.

"Our numbers are deceiving because we have over-reporting here, which is good."

The most evidence of the increase occurred over Easter break, when there were several cases of automobile vandalism reported in the D2 and D6 parking lots. In addition, there have been several instances of illegal spray-painting in the last week, which according to Rakow are both rarities at Notre Dame.

However, Rakow believed that the crimes were most likely the result of a few youths from the South Bend area, and does not envision the problem escalating any further. "Coming out of winter, a small crime increase is typical. It's just part of the general rambunctiousness of the spring."

However, Rakow said that campus police officers are aware of the recent occurrences, and have begun to monitor certain areas more closely while on their patrol.

He also added that awareness of the problem on campus is one of the best resources that his department has.

"Crime prevention is a community effort, not just on the part of law enforcement and security," Rakow said.

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