Ohio State crime skyrocketed in 2 categories in 2023. Here’s why.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (The Columbus Dispatch): Ohio State University saw a sharp rise in crime during 2023, particularly in two key categories: motor vehicle thefts and drug law violations. According to the university's annual campus safety report, vehicle thefts more than doubled compared to the previous year, jumping from 49 incidents in 2022 to 103 in 2023. The surge is partly attributed to a national trend where thieves target specific car models, such as Kias and Hyundais, exploiting a security flaw made popular on social media platforms like TikTok.

Drug law violations also spiked, with 460 incidents reported in 2023, up from 293 in 2022. This increase is largely tied to the university's more active enforcement of marijuana laws, as well as efforts to address drug use on campus. OSU officials have acknowledged the rise in both categories and are working to implement strategies to address these issues, including expanded security measures and education programs aimed at preventing theft and drug use.

Despite these spikes, overall crime on campus remained relatively steady, with no major increases in violent crime. University officials continue to emphasize student safety and encourage the use of resources such as campus police escorts and crime prevention workshops.

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