The announcements are being applauded by some public safety advocates in Athens — with some caveats.

“It’s an initial investment and we think more can be done,” said Susan Monteverde, of the anti-crime group SafeD Athens. “We’ve put forth programs and it seems like they’ve pulled from them with this investment without doing the whole entire program, so to speak.”

Monteverde says there needs to be better technological integration between the UGA and Athens-Clarke County police departments and more programs to address the needs of unhoused people, some of whom walk onto the UGA campus from the surrounding community, making students feel unsafe.

She advises students always to lock their vehicle and apartment doors, even if they expect to be away for just a moment, and to avoid walking alone.

Not all crime can be prevented, but layered levels of deterrence can make a significant difference.

Local Nonprofit SafeD Athens Promotes Additional Safety Measures in Wake of Alleged Murder

Governor Newsom talks with homeless man about mental health treatment housing.