The latest crime figures for Skyline College have been released, and although overall crime is on a downward trend, they show a startling statistic that is new for 2002: forcible sex offenses.There were two sexual assaults reported last year that must be posted on Skyline’s record even though they did not involve students and were committed by San Francisco residents. “People from San Francisco use the college as lover’s lanes,” Security Supervisor James Herndon said, emphasizing the fact that the assaults had nothing to do with Skyline College except they occurred in the parking lots here. Despite the sexual assault figures, overall 2002 crime statistics continue a trend of single digit numbers that began in 2000 when there were only five reported incidences. That compares to 15 incidences of crime reported in 1999, according to Gerald A. Peel, Skyline public information officer.”We’re way below the average on crime regarding other campuses,” Peel said. He added that Skyline College is one of the safest campuses in the country.Every college reports crime figures and makes them public each year in accordance with federal public law 101-542, the campus security act of 1990, also known as the Clary Act, or as Student Right to Know. Skyline College makes the statistics available on its website and posts monthly crime and comparison statistics with other colleges on the safety bulletin board in the cafeteria in building 2. Other crimes reported last year include two reported incidents of aggravated assault, one burglary, and two motor vehicle thefts on campus last year. According to Peel, Skyline’s location may be a factor in the low crime rate. The campus is not located adjacent to major freeways, and has limited access; it may discourage potential crime because it is not easy to get out of the area once a crime is committed.Eight full and part time security officers on Skyline College’s staff provide security for students at all times the campus is open. Herndon said that with the SMCCCD budget constraints they do not provide 24-hour surveillance. San Bruno police provide back-up and security patrols around the clock as part of their regular rounds.Both Peel and Herndon advise students to always be aware of their surroundings, especially when going to their cars in the outlying parking lots. They recommend walking in pairs, especially after dark. Students may call the security office for an escort to their vehicles any time the campus is open. The number for campus security is 650-738-4199 or stop by the office in Building 2, Third floor, Room 2319.