I am writing in response to Diana Hines' quote from yesterday's article "Some women see safety in numbers." Hines is quoted as saying that if girls are attacked because they are walking alone at night, "it is also partly their fault." In making this statement, I feel that Hines is out of line. I often walk home alone, but in so doing, I realize that I am at risk.

Therefore, I take certain precautions, such as never walking down alleys, never taking shortcuts behind buildings, and I always walk down well-lit streets. Also, I do not talk on a cell phone or other such actions that could prohibit me from seeing a possible attacker. When walking, I do my best to appear alert and attentive.

Because I am taking preventative measures, I believe this entitles me to be able to walk home by myself. I do not believe that in walking home by myself, I am placing myself at risk and that I am at fault if I am attacked. Hines should realize that crimes do not happen because of the victims. Crimes happen because of the people who perpetrate the crimes.