The group clarified that its ambassadors will stick to public areas like streets and sidewalks, avoiding university property such as courtyards and the campus itself
Parents of students attending the University of California, Berkeley are taking measures to enhance safety in and around campus. Concerned about the well-being of their children, some parents have formed the “SafeBears Group.”
This group has organised a team of six security ambassadors who will be visible from 6:30 p.m. to 3 a.m. These ambassadors, easily identifiable by their bright clothing, will patrol designated areas, with one ambassador using a bicycle for mobility.
The group clarified that its ambassadors will stick to public areas like streets and sidewalks, avoiding university property such as courtyards and the campus itself. All guards have undergone background checks and possess California guard cards. Notably, they will not carry any defensive equipment like pepper spray or batons.
The primary aim of these guards is to act as a deterrent against potential crime. Additionally, they will provide escort services upon request. The selected surveillance areas span from Bancroft Way to Dwight Way, covering five blocks, based on recent crime reports.
The SafeBears Group has set a fundraising goal of $300,000 for their initiative, with approximately $40,000 raised so far.
In response to inquiries from KRON4, UC Berkeley expressed concerns about the use of private security. They emphasised the importance of coordination with the University of California Police Department (UCPD) for any security efforts on campus, regardless of funding sources.
UC Berkeley assured ongoing efforts to bolster campus security, including the implementation of key card access, surveillance cameras, and additional on-site staff. Furthermore, the university stated plans to recruit more campus police officers.
