Police use car show to connect with students

UNC Charlotte is recognizing September as national Campus Safety Awareness Month. But the UNCC police work toward that goal every day of the year.

On Sept. 15, the UNCC police department will sponsor its second annual Campus Car Show from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Lot 5. All students, faculty staff and community members are invited. Admission is free; food will be for sale.

UNCC Police Officer Jerry Lecomte is excited about the car show.

“This event allows everyone to communicate in a relaxed atmosphere, and we explore interests we have in common,” he said.

Charlotte Motor Speedway donated a few prizes, as did the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Campus police are still accepting other donations.

Lecomte has a dual purpose in mind.

“This is our earliest opportunity to interact with students and others in the community,” he said. “During the car show, we also provide helpful information to keep the participants safe and encourage them to make good choices.”

The event is being supported by the Alan Kulwicki N.C. Motorsport and Automotive Research Center, and the UNCC Engineering Department. UNCC’s first responder partners – Medic and the Charlotte Fire Department – also will have safety displays.

Other displays will come from the N.C. Highway Patrol and the Alcohol Beverage Control board. UNCC police also will showcase their Mobile Command Center.

UNCC Police Chief Jeff Baker said he believes the car show is a great tool to help keep students safe. But, he said, the No. 1 problem on campus is theft. He strongly urges students to take precautions.

“Too many students are leaving valuable items unattended. To me, it’s a crime, and I try to lower crime,” Baker said. Securing valuables is high on his list to prevent crime on the UNCC campus.

The UNCC Police Department has several goals for the Campus Car Show. They want to help prevent crime, educate students and others, and simply have a good time enjoying common interests through a variety of unique automobiles.