Increased Surveillance on College Campuses Could Lead to More Student Discipline
A recent incident at a prestigious university in Philadelphia has illustrated the recent increase in technology being used to monitor college students. The matter demonstrates the increased surveillance that colleges are implementing to crack down on criminal offenses that occur on campus, which could lead to severe consequences for students.
If you or a family member have been charged with a criminal offense due to an incident occurring at a college campus, the LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team can help you. Our team has experience in defending students who have been accused of a wide range of criminal offenses. To find out how we can help you, call 888-535-3686 or fill out our confidential online contact form today.
University Surveillance Measures Resulted in Consequences for a Penn Student
Recently, a statue at the University of Pennsylvania was vandalized. A pro-Palestinian group took credit for the incident. Although the damage was not permanent, University police were quick to utilize video surveillance and cell tower records of the surrounding area. After obtaining a search warrant for cell phone records, a possible cell phone was identified. Within weeks, police obtained a warrant, entered the off-campus residence of a student, and seized his cell phone. Although the student has not yet been charged with a crime, the matter demonstrates the lengths universities will go to track down criminal activity on campus, even for a relatively minor crime such as vandalism.
Universities Have Been Quick To Use Surveillance To Fight Crime
The recent political climate has resulted in college campuses cracking down on criminal activity, at least partially driven by the need to maintain federal funding. At least one college was denied $400 million in funding until its campus police were given the law enforcement power necessary to arrest university students.
As a result of this political pressure, colleges have cracked down on seemingly all types of criminal activity. Many of these crimes, such as vandalism or underage drinking, would typically not have been enforced as strictly in the past. However, due to video surveillance and the ability to obtain cell phone records, law enforcement has found it much easier to identify and prosecute students for all types of crimes.
The LLF Law Firm Can Help You Defend Yourself
Our team of criminal law attorneys has successfully defended college students throughout Pennsylvania. We understand that being charged with a crime, even a minor crime, can be a stressful and scary experience. We stand ready to investigate the case and defend you. In certain circumstances, we can negotiate with law enforcement to get charges reduced or even dropped entirely.
The conviction of a crime can have long-lasting repercussions and may make it difficult for you to find future employment or obtain a professional license. A criminal record can do long-lasting damage. Don’t let your future get derailed. The LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team has the experience needed to defend you. Call 888-535-3686 or fill out our confidential online form.