On what basis should crime statistics be reported according to the Clery Act?

The crime statistics reported under the Clery Act must be done on a calendar year basis. This means that all data regarding crimes occurring on or near campus must be collected and reported based on the calendar year, which runs from January 1 to December 31. This standardization ensures consistency and comparability of the reported data across institutions and enables better analysis of crime trends over time.

Choosing a calendar year basis helps institutions align their reporting with other federal and state reporting requirements, as many data collection agencies utilize the same timeframe. This practice supports a more transparent and accountable approach to campus safety, facilitating the dissemination of relevant information to students, parents, and the community.

Other options such as the academic year, fiscal year, or school year do not align with the Clery Act’s stipulations, thus potentially complicating the reporting process and making it less effective for stakeholders looking to understand crime trends and safety on campus universally.