Palo Alto College's crime rate is among the lowest in the Alamo Community College District, according to a 1999 report.

“Safety wise, this is one of the best,” said Palo Alto Patrol Officer Johnny Knowles. “As far as the student population versus the crime that we have here, it's pretty much no comparison.”

Four incidents of auto theft were reported at Palo Alto, up from three in 1998. Of all the schools in the district, only Northwest Vista College reported less crime, with zero in all categories.

San Antonio College reported the highest crime rate within the district, with six counts of drug possessions, five incidents of auto theft and two acts of burglary. St. Philip's College trailed second, with nine counts of auto theft and one each of weapon and drug possession.

District wide, 18 reports of auto theft lead the list of crimes reported, followed by seven drug possession violations, two burglary incidents and one report of weapons possession.

Knowles and the rest of the patrol officers are subject to the same intensive training as State Troopers and the San Antonio Police Department. Palo Alto officers carry the same license and have the same powers as other law enforcement agencies.

Ensuring the safety of the students is the number one priority of the department, according to Knowles. They take preventive measures by putting themselves out in the field in mobile units as well as in plain clothes to discourage undesirables from coming onto the campus, whether it is on foot, bike or motor vehicle. This plan of action seems to be working.

“I feel pretty safe—I don't see any big scary guys or girls beating people up,” said Benjamin Perez, sophomore Art major. “I don't see any signs of violence anywhere—everybody's going to school, not worried about anyone else. I don't think crime is a big issue.”

Other students agree with Perez.

“I generally feel safe because it hasn't been called to my attention there's a problem here at Palo Alto,” said Stella Guzman, sophomore Biology major.

Five emergency phones have been strategically placed around Palo Alto to aid students from becoming victims of crimes. Each phone is within one-minute walking distance to anywhere on campus.

“Be cautious of your surroundings,” said Lisa Rivas, sophomore Social Work major. “If you see somebody walking behind you just be cautious.”

“Preventive measures are pretty much the main thing,” said Knowles. “Don't allow yourself to become a victim. If you don't feel at ease, just call one of us. We'll have security walk with you. That's our job. We're here to help you out.”