Recent Postings
May 2, 2008
SECURITY NOTICE
(ESM Area Assault - Gibbs St.
Near East Main St.)
Near East Main St.)
A male undergraduate student of the Eastman School of Music was the victim of an assault that occurred on Gibbs Street near the corner of East Main Street at about 11:05 P.M. on Thursday evening May 1, 2008. The student was walking from the Eastman School to the Student Living Center. As he passed by the YMCA, a lone male suspect approached from behind, punched the student several times, then fled, running west on Main Street. The suspect did not speak. The student fell to the ground, dropping some items he was carrying. The student immediately ran to the Student Living Center and alerted the on duty front desk worker. The desk worker notified Security, who also notified the Rochester Police. The student suffered a cut and swelling to his lip.
The Rochester Police conducted a thorough check of the surrounding area. The suspect was not located. An ambulance was summoned and responding medical staff treated the student for his injury. The student declined further medical attention.
University Security has added an additional officer to patrol the Eastman campus during the late evening hours, through the end of the academic school year.
As you go about your daily activities we encourage everyone in the community to continue exercising good safety practices. Maintain awareness of your surroundings. Limit use of personal audio players or cell phones that may distract one's attention. Travel with a friend when possible. Remember, too: Personal safety escorts are available at any time. Please feel free to call the University's Crime Prevention Office at x5-2220 with any questions.
April 23, 2008
Community Update
(AlertUR - First Test Of
New Emergency Notification System)
New Emergency Notification System)
By now you have probably seen the posters advertising the first test of the university's new emergency alert system (AlertUR) on Thursday evening, April 24, 2008, at 6:30 pm. In addition, information about this new program and notices about the upcoming test with undergraduates have been published in the Weekly Buzz, reported in The Campus Times, and mailed to the families of undergraduates.
If an emergency situation were in progress, you would go to the University's emergency Web site at www.rochester.edu/emergency for the latest information.
This test will not disrupt scheduled University activities or staffing.
If you have not yet done so, please visit the AlertUR web site, now, at https://alert.rochester.edu/
Add your personal notification options. The test message will go automatically to your university provided email account. You have the choice of additional message options including phone numbers(s), text messages, and personal email accounts - by logging in with your NetID and Password on the AlertUR web page.
The distribution of the test message tomorrow evening will be based on updated records as of 8:00 pm Wednesday evening.
As of 4:30 pm this afternoon, 1,411 registrants have included additional notification options to their AlertUR files.
February 8, 2008
EASTMAN COMMUNITY NOTICE
(Recent Off-Campus Robberies)
A male graduate student reported he was the victim of an off-campus attempted robbery on Friday evening, February 1, 2008, at about 8:45 P.M. The student and a relative were walking on Broadway near East Avenue. They were approached by a lone male suspect who indicated he had a handgun, but none was displayed. The student wrestled the suspect to the ground and passersby assisted in holding him until the arrival of the Rochester Police. Rochester resident Daniel Ramos, aged 20, was taken into custody and charged with attempted robbery. The student and his companion were not injured. There was no weapon found on the suspect.
An off-campus strong arm robbery in the same area involving another Eastman graduate student occurred on Tuesday evening, February 5, 2008, at about 10:30 P.M. The male student was walking on Broadway near East Avenue when he was approached by three male suspects. One suspect said he had a handgun, although none was displayed. They demanded money and property. The student surrendered his wallet and cell phone. The suspects took money from the wallet and gave the wallet back. The suspects fled on foot. The student was not injured. He notified the Rochester Police. The police conducted a thorough check of the surrounding areas, which included the use of a tracking dog. The suspects were not located.
University Security is working closely with the Rochester Police Department on these cases. Security has added an additional roving vehicle patrol at the Eastman Campus during the evening hours to monitor the perimeter of the campus and the streets that criss-cross through it. As you go about your daily activities, you are encouraged to exercise good safety practices. Please feel free to call the University's Crime Prevention Office at x5-2220 with any questions.
January 30, 2008
SECURITY NOTICE
(Attempted Strong-arm Robbery - Exterior of Hoyt Hall)
A female undergraduate student was the victim of an attempted (strong-arm) robbery on Tuesday, January 29, 2008, at about 7:00 pm near the lower level of the stairs between Hoyt and Dewey Halls that lead to the Eastman Quadrangle. The student was approached from behind by a lone suspect who grabbed her arm and demanded money. As the student was reaching into her pocket, someone else walked by the general area and the suspect let her go. It is believed the suspect entered Hoyt Hall through a nearby door that connects on the tunnel level. The student returned to her room then called Security at 7:16 pm. No weapon was threatened or displayed. The student was not injured. The student elected not to file a police report at the time of incident.
The victim did not get a look at the suspect. Responding security officers reported that many students were in the tunnel area near Hoyt when they arrived on scene. If anyone observed an individual appearing to be fleeing the area or taking other furtive action, we request that you contact Security at x53333 and provide your information.
As you go about your daily activities we encourage everyone in the community to continue exercising good safety practices. Please feel free to call the University's Crime Prevention Office at x5-2220 with any questions.
REMEMBER - WHEN YOU ARE SAFE - - CALL UR SECURITY from the nearest Blue Light Emergency Phone or by dialing x13 if on campus. By cell phone, dial 585-275-3333. AT&T or Verizon callers may dial #413, a free call to University Security in the Rochester area. From off campus locations call the police by dialing 9-1-1. (Every minute counts!)
January 15, 2008
SECURITY NOTICE
(Attempted Strong-arm Robbery
East Main & Chestnut Streets)
East Main & Chestnut Streets)
A female graduate student of the Eastman School reported today that she was the victim of an attempted robbery (strong-arm) on Sunday, January 13, 2008 at about 5:00 P.M. in the parking lot at the corner of East Main Street and Chestnut Street. The student was approached by a teenage male suspect who asked for money and the use of her cell phone. A second teenage male suspect then approached and asked for money in an aggressive manner. The student told them she had no money. The teenage suspects walked away. Three young adult suspects immediately approached the student. They demanded she go with them to an alley off Chestnut Street and give them her valuables. The student declined, telling them no. One suspect said they had to leave. The three young adult suspects walked away. No weapon was threatened or displayed by any suspect. The student was not injured. The student filed a police report after returning to her off-campus residence.
As you go about your daily activities we encourage everyone in the community to continue exercising good safety practices. Please take a moment to review these safety tips. Please feel free to call the University's Crime Prevention Office at x5-2220 with any questions.
Remember these tips:
- HEADS UP - - STAY AWARE of your surroundings. Display a sense of confidence while walking. Keeping alert is your best defense.
- BUDDY UP - - WALK or TRAVEL WITH SOMEONE whenever possible. There is strength in numbers.
- PLAN AHEAD - - REHEARSE IN YOUR MIND what you might do if confronted with a threatening situation. Do not limit yourself to one action - think about your next steps.
- GIVE IT UP - - DON'T FIGHT BACK if your property is forcibly taken - turn it over rather than risk personal injury.
- STAY CALM - - THINK CAREFULLY about a suspect's description, actions and words - so the information can be relayed quickly to responding officers.
- WHEN YOU ARE SAFE - - CALL UR SECURITY from the nearest Blue Light Emergency Phone or by dialing x13 if on campus. By cell phone, dial 585-275-3333. AT&T or Verizon callers may dial #413, a free call to University Security. From off campus locations call the police by dialing 9-1-1. (Every minute counts!)
January 10, 2008 SECURITY NOTICE (Strong-arm Robbery and Assault
in the Intercampus Drive Lot)
A male graduate student was the victim of a strong-arm robbery in the Intercampus Drive Lot shortly after 9:00 P.M. on Wednesday evening, January 9, 2008. The student was approached by a group of five (5) teens. Two male and one female suspects came closer and demanded money. The student gave them cash, then his wallet. One male suspect then punched the student in the face and knocked him to the ground, causing a contusion. All the suspects fled, running south towards Elmwood Avenue. No weapons were displayed or threatened.
The student entered his car and drove a short distance to Trustee Road, then notified 9-1-1 from his cell phone. A Security supervisor (who monitored the dispatch of police) and University officers responded immediately. An ambulance was summoned as a precaution. Security and the Rochester Police conducted thorough checks of the surrounding areas, which included the use of a tracking dog. The suspects were not located. The student was treated by ambulance staff at the scene, then drove himself to Strong Hospital for follow up care.
CCTV images are being reviewed to determine if the suspects appear in images recorded earlier in the day and into the evening. If you believe you have information, please call University Security at x5-3333 or the Rochester Police at 9-1-1.
As you go about your daily activities we encourage you to continue to exercise good safety practices. Personal safety escorts at the University are available at any time. Dial x5-3333 from any campus phone or pick up the nearest Blue Light Emergency Phone. By cell phone, dial 585-275-3333. AT&T or Verizon callers may dial #413, a free call to University Security in the Rochester area. If you have any questions, you may call the University's Crime Prevention Office at x5-2220.
November 14, 2007 COMMUNITY UPDATE (Traffic Engineering Review
Elmwood Avenue Crosswalk @
Medical Research Building Drive)
Local traffic engineers agreed today to an expedited review of a University request for the installation of traffic signals on Elmwood Avenue at the crosswalk and vehicle entrance to the Medical Research Building Drive. The agreement was reached during a meeting that included senior representatives from City of Rochester, County of Monroe and the University.
The engineering study will take about a month to complete. It will evaluate pedestrian and vehicle safety conditions, the timing and effects of new signals on traffic management, lighting, construction site challenges (underground utilities) and signage. If approved, new traffic signals will be installed in early 2008, as soon as early spring weather conditions permit.
Additional steps are underway. Security has taken light readings and Parking has conducted pedestrian counts for use by the engineers. Additional campus lighting will be installed on the walkway approaches to the crosswalk. Signs urging pedestrians to remain alert to traffic conditions before entering crosswalks will be posted.
The Rochester Police Department has stepped up traffic enforcement along Elmwood, targeting speeders and others who disregard traffic safety rules - including the yielding to pedestrians in crosswalks.
An information campaign, urging safe traffic crossing practices, will be distributed throughout the University and repeated at intervals.
While New York law was amended about three years ago to give crosswalk pedestrians specific legal rights, an awareness of surroundings remains a key part of keeping pedestrians and motorists safe. For example:
- Use designated crosswalks only - do not cross busy streets at random points
- Exercise caution - even attentive drivers require a moment or two to react
- Look for a sign of recognition that drivers see you at the crosswalk - do not assume
- Stop use of cell phones or personal music devices while crossing streets, as they distract you from traffic sights and sounds
- Walk bicycles across crosswalks - you have quicker, more precise reactions on foot
- For walking at night, wear a light colored or reflective outer garment
November 7, 2007 COMMUNITY NOTICE (Student Injured In Vehicle/Pedestrian Accident)
The University issued the following statement Wednesday evening:
University of Rochester undergraduate student, Sara Gail Ng Lim, 21, was struck by a car while stepping into an Elmwood Avenue crosswalk yesterday evening. She is in guarded condition and being treated at the University's Strong Memorial Hospital, according to a hospital spokesman.
The accident occurred in light rain at approximately 7 p.m. The driver of the vehicle has not been charged, and police are continuing to reconstruct the accident.
"We offer our heartfelt wishes to Sara for her speedy recovery and for her return to campus activities," said University President Joel Seligman. "We will provide any assistance we can to support Sara's family and friends at this time."
The accident was reported by a witness via a cell phone call to University Security, whose officers arrived in approximately one minute. An ambulance arrived one minute later and, after the EMS crew provided on-scene care, they transported Ms. Lim to the Hospital's Emergency Department.
Dean of the College Richard Feldman assigned representatives of the College's Dean of Students Office to make contact with and assist Ms. Lim's parents, who live in the Philippines, and to offer counseling support to her friends and roommates.
The crosswalk is heavily used by pedestrians crossing between the University's River Campus and its Medical Center, and it contains special flashing lights in the pavement that are activated when pedestrians trigger sensors before stepping into the roadway.
University officials are issuing reminders to pedestrians and drivers to exercise caution near heavily used crosswalks. They continue to work with city and county traffic control officials to enhance both traffic flow and safety and pedestrian safety along Elmwood Avenue and adjacent streets.
October 29, 2007 SECURITY NOTICE (Off-Campus Robbery -
Congress Ave., near Genesee St.)
This morning University Security was notified about an armed robbery of two female undergraduate students that occurred off campus on Sunday evening, October 28, 2007, at about 8:20 pm, on Congress Avenue off Genesee Street.
The students exited the car they had just parked on Congress Avenue. They walked towards their residence and were confronted by two teenage male suspects. Each wore a black hoody to help hide his face. One suspect displayed a handgun. The suspects forced the students to the ground and demanded money. The students surrendered cash. The suspects then fled, running north through back yards towards Terrace Park. The students were not injured. The students immediately notified the Rochester Police. The police conducted a thorough check of the surrounding neighborhood, which also included the use of a tracking dog. The suspects were not located.
The University has reached out to the two victims and their housemate, another UR student. In addition Security has talked with the police seeking additional details and updates. At this time there is not a tie-in to the strong-arm robbery (no weapon displayed) of an undergraduate male by several teenage male suspects, which occurred on Wednesday evening, October 24th, on Genesee Street near Terrace Park. However, the physical proximity (Terrace Park, Congress, Genesee Street) and times of the robberies (between 7:15 and 8:20 pm) are noted.
The University has asked the Rochester Police to devote increased resources to this area. In addition, Security will maintain the special patrols of the Wilson Boulevard area, particularly along the Residence Quad and Fraternity Quad complexes, throughout this coming week.
Contact the Rochester Police by calling 9-1-1 if you observe suspicious conditions in the City. If you are on campus, call x13 from any campus phone, pick-up a direct line Blue Light Emergency Phone, or, press #413 from your cell phone if you have Cingular/AT&T or Verizon service.
October 26, 2007 SECURITY NOTICE (Off-Campus Robbery -
Genesee St., near Terrace Park)
University Security has obtained information about the strong-arm robbery of a male undergraduate student that occurred off campus on Wednesday evening, October 24, 2007, at about 7:15 P.M., on Genesee Street near Terrace Park.
The student was walking south along Genesee Street from Brooks Avenue. He saw a group of five or six teenage males walking towards him. The group approached and one suspect demanded the property from the student's pockets. Other suspects immediately began to punch the student about his head with their fists. The student surrendered a cell phone. The suspects ran away, north on Genesee Street past Brooks Avenue.
The student proceeded to his nearby residence and notified the Rochester Police. The police conducted a thorough check of the surrounding area. The suspects were not located. The student declined medical attention.
NOTE:
Security officers on patrol, including "lead officers", will be instructed to give extra attention to the pedestrian access and egress routes for River Campus over the next several evenings/nights.
Remember these tips
As you go about your daily activities we encourage you to continue to exercise good safety practices. Please take a moment to review these safety tips. If you have any questions, you may call the University's Crime Prevention Office at x5-2220.
- HEADS UP -- STAY AWARE of your surroundings. Display a sense of confidence while walking. Keeping alert is your best defense.
- BUDDY UP -- WALK or TRAVEL WITH SOMEONE whenever possible. There is strength in numbers.
- PLAN AHEAD -- REHEARSE IN YOUR MIND what you might do if confronted with a threatening situation. Do not limit yourself to one action - think about your next steps.
- GIVE IT UP -- DON'T FIGHT BACK if your property is forcibly taken - turn it over rather than risk personal injury.
- STAY CALM -- THINK CAREFULLY about a suspect's description, actions and words - so the information can be relayed quickly to responding officers.
- WHEN YOU ARE SAFE -- CALL UR SECURITY from the nearest Blue Light Emergency Phone or by dialing x13 if on campus or by dialing #413 if you are an AT&T/Cingular or Verizon customer. Call the police by dialing 9-1-1 from off campus locations. (Every minute counts!)
September 28, 2007 @ 5:30 pm SECURITY NOTICE (Off-Campus Robbery -
Genesee St., near Barton St.)
University Security was contacted today (September 28) by a male graduate student who reported that he was the victim of an off-campus strong-arm robbery that occurred on Wednesday evening, September 26, 2007. Shortly after 10:00 P.M. the student was walking on Genesee Street near the corner of Barton Street. Three male suspects (approx. 16-17 years old) approached from the opposite direction and passed by the student. The suspects immediately turned back and hit the student several times. They demanded his wallet, which they took, and fled, running north on Genesee Street. The student notified the Rochester Police. The police conducted a check of the surrounding area. The suspects were not located. The student declined medical attention Wednesday evening.
As you go about your daily activities we encourage you to continue to exercise good safety practices. If you have any questions, you may call the University's Crime Prevention Office at x5-2220.
September 6, 2007 SECURITY NOTICE
Late Wednesday evening, September 5, 2007, University security officers apprehended Curtis Binion, 41, of Rochester. It is believed he was trying to steal bicycle(s) from the bike rack located near Fairchild in Hill Court. An alert student called Security at 11:34 pm to report suspicious behavior. The first officer arrived at 11:35 pm and approached the suspect. He refused to comply with several requests to step away from a shadowy area in which he was standing and to remove his hands from his pockets.
The officer attempted to take physical control of the person for safety reasons but the suspect resisted. Other officers arrived within moments to assist. A set of bolt cutters was discovered in the suspect's clothing. While being handcuffed the suspect began to display symptoms of a medical problem. Officers removed the handcuff but maintained control and immediately requested R/C MERT as well as an ambulance. During the medical assessment at the scene, a loaded starter's pistol was discovered in the individual's front pants pocket in which one of his hands had been placed. It was secured and turned over to police.
Binion was treated at the scene by MERT and the responding ambulance crew. He was taken to SMH for evaluation. He was later released to the custody of Monroe County Sheriff's Office deputies for outstanding warrants. He remains in the Monroe County Jail at this time. He was issued an appearance ticket by Rochester Police for trespass.
September 2, 2007 @ 5:30 pm COMMUNITY UPDATE (Eastman School Of Music/Swan Street Area)
Shortly before 5:30 pm on Sunday, September 2nd, Rochester Police arrested an individual near the Eastman School after the person attempted to run away as they observed and approached him for acting in a suspicious manner. The officers first noted the suspect while they were in Java's, a popular coffee shop next to the School. As they approached the suspect, he attempted to flee first on a bicycle, then on foot. He was apprehended after a brief chase. While fleeing, the suspect threw an object onto the roof of a mechanical room located next to the bike rack area. University Security officers helped police check the area, whereupon a loaded automatic handgun was recovered. Cori BUCKMAN, 27, was charged with a Felony Count of Criminal Possession Of A Weapon, 2nd. At the time of the arrest, Buckman was on parole.
Erie Canal Bike Path
Between Kendrick Road And
West Henrietta Road
September 5, 2007University Security was notified today that a Medical Center faculty member reported to Brighton Police that he had been the victim of an attempted strong-arm robbery and assault while he was bicycling on the Canal Bike Path around 5:30 pm on Tuesday, September 4th. He was riding eastbound away from the University area when he was approached by a group of five (5) youths. He was pushed off his bike and the youths demanded his money and his bicycle. Other riders approached the scene, whereupon the suspects fled the area without any property. The faculty member received a minor injury when knocked off his bicycle and he refused medical attention. The Brighton Police request that you contact 9-1-1 if you have any information about this off-campus incident.
August 30, 2007 SAFETY BULLETIN (Strong-Arm Robbery - River Campus)
Update: Two juveniles (ages 14 and 16) were arrested on October 24, 2007 in connection with this robbery.
A non-affiliated adult female was the victim of a strong-arm robbery at about 9:00 pm, Wednesday evening, August 29, 2007. She was walking on the sidewalk in front of Strong Auditorium on River Campus when she was approached by two suspects, a male and a female in their mid to late teens. They started a conversation about an item she was carrying. After a few moments, the victim resumed her walk towards the Eastman Quadrangle when the female suspect got up close, grabbed her and pulled her from behind to the ground. The suspect then stole the victim's cell phone, which she was actually using at the time. The suspects fled down the stairs between Strong and Lattimore Hall.
At 9:03 pm, a Security supervisor was flagged down on Wilson Boulevard near Hutchison Hall by a visiting parent who had been approached by the victim asking for help. Immediately, additional Security officers and Rochester Police responded to the area. A search was conducted. Coordinators for an orientation activity on the Wilson Commons were contacted. CCTV records for cameras in the general area were checked to no immediate avail. The victim was checked out by MERT as a precaution and she declined medical attention.
Several hundred persons were in attendance at the above mentioned social activity, and numerous informal gatherings at the time of this event. University Security and Rochester Police ask that anyone who may have observed this event, or who may have been approached by a male/female teen couple who were persistent in trying to make "small talk" about one's possessions - to share that information. Contact Rochester Police by calling 9-1-1; call University Security by dialing x5-3333 from any campus phone or by dialing #413 from any AT&T/Cingular or Verizon phone operating in the Rochester area.
Security posted an officer on a concentrated patrol of the area along Wilson between the Chapel and Fauver through the night. Select Fauver field lights remained in operation through the night hours. The on-call emergency duty deans were notified and were making further contacts.
August 16, 2007 SAFETY BULLETIN (Off-Campus Robbery)
A female Medical Center employee was the victim of an off campus strong arm robbery on Wednesday evening, August 15, 2007, at about 11:15 p.m., at the corner of Castleman Road and Crittenden Blvd. Two male suspects on bicycles approached her and forcibly took her backpack, knocking the victim to the ground. The suspects rode off, but returned immediately. They demanded money, which she surrendered from her wallet. They demanded the wallet, looked for more money and threw it to the ground. The suspects fled, riding west on Crittenden Blvd. toward Kendrick Road. No weapon was threatened or displayed. The employee was not injured. She reported the incident to University Security upon arriving at work the following morning (August 16th). Security notified the Rochester Police.
University Security is looking into the activities of these suspects earlier in the evening. If you believe you have information that would help, please call us at x5-3333. As you go about your daily activities we encourage everyone in the community to continue exercising good safety practices. Please take a moment to review these safety tips. Please feel free to call the University's Crime Prevention Office at x5-2220 with any questions.
SAFETY TIPS TO REMEMBER:
- HEADS UP - - STAY AWARE of your surroundings. Display a sense of confidence while walking. Keeping alert is your best defense.
- BUDDY UP - - WALK or TRAVEL WITH SOMEONE whenever possible. There is strength in numbers.
- PLAN AHEAD - - REHEARSE IN YOUR MIND what you might do if confronted with a threatening situation. Do not limit yourself to one action - think about your next steps.
- GIVE IT UP - - DON'T FIGHT BACK if your property is forcibly taken - turn it over rather than risk personal injury.
- STAY CALM - - THINK CAREFULLY about a suspect's description, actions and words - so the information can be relayed quickly to responding officers.
- WHEN YOU ARE SAFE - - CALL UR SECURITY from the nearest Blue Light Emergency Phone or by dialing x13 if on campus - or call the police by dialing 911 from off campus locations. (Every minute counts!)
July 23, 2007 COMMUNITY UPDATE (Arraignments in RC Robberies, June 7th and 11th)
Update, July 23, 2007, 3:30 p.m.
Two person have been charged as adults and arraigned on multiple felony counts in connection with robberies on the River Campus on June 7th and 11th (see recent postings, dated June 29, 2007, June 12, 2007 and June 7, 2007, for original notices). Robert Ellison (17), and Demetrish Gupton (16) entered not guilty pleas in Monroe County Court, Friday. Robert Ellison has been released on bail. At the time of this update, Demetrish Gupton remained in custody. Two other suspects have been referred to Juvenile Court authorities due their ages.)
July 10, 2007 COMMUNITY UPDATE (Recent Area Vehicle Incidents)
University Security is investigating three recent incidents of car break-ins, and one stolen car, that occurred in University parking areas.(These incidents were described on a Channel 13 News report, July 9, 2007.)
On Thursday, July 5, 2007, a contractor discovered their vehicle had been forcibly entered while parked in the Park Lot. The owner reported damage to the driver's door lock, and the in-dash CD player, several compact discs and an assortment of tools had been taken. The contractor was to file a police report at a later time. Investigating officers discovered a second car with a broken window along with pry marks around the in-dash stereo. The owner, a River Campus graduate student, reported nothing missing from the vehicle. An offer to file a Rochester Police report was declined. Both of these incidents occurred during the daytime hours.
On Friday, July 6, 2007, a Medical Center employee reported their vehicle had a window broken and the in-dash stereo taken while the car was parked at the Iola campus lot at Westfall and E. Henrietta Roads. The incident occurred during the mid-morning hours. The staff member was to file a police report at a later time.
On Monday morning, July 9, 2007 a summer conference participant reported their car was stolen during the overnight hours on Sunday evening from the Hill Court Lot. A report was filed with the Rochester Police.
University Security is working diligently with the Rochester Police and will continue active security patrols of all University parking areas. Most thefts from vehicles are crimes of opportunity and take only seconds to commit, including stealing a car.
If you have information about any of these incidents please call University Security at 275-3333. We encourage everyone in the community to exercise good safety habits in your everyday activities. Please take time to review these tips:
- Always lock your car when leaving it unattended. Make sure the windows are completely closed, even in warmer weather.
- Lock pullout stereos, radar detectors, cell phones and other valuable property in the trunk, out of sight of passersby.
- Take valuables with you if they can't be secured out of sight.
- Don't leave compacts discs, audio tapes, or other property in plain view.
- We recommend the use of an auxiliary locking device to further deter car theft, such as a steering wheel, steering column or brake pedal lock.
- Immediately report any suspicious or unusual activity you observe. Dial x13 from any University telephone or pick up the nearest Blue Light Emergency Phone. By cell phone, dial 585-275-3333. Cingular/AT&T or Verizon callers may dial #413, a free call to University Security. From off campus locations call the police by dialing 911.
June 29, 2007 COMMUNITY UPDATE (Apprehensions Made In Recent Crime Incidents Reported
Via Safety Bulletins To Campus Community)
All but one of the juveniles believed responsible for two crimes described in Safety Bulletins issued on June 7, 2007, and June 12, 2007, have been apprehended by Rochester Police. The remaining juvenile suspect has been identified and police are actively searching for him.
The first event involved a visitor who was the victim of a strong-arm robbery on Wilson Boulevard at Library Road at about 1:25 pm on Thursday, June 7th. The victim was approached from behind by three teens, two males and a female. After asking to use his cell phone, they commenced to rob him.
The second event involved a visiting professor, on campus for a conference. He was walking along the the Wilson Boulevard area's pedestrian path at about 7:20 pm on Monday, June 11, 2007. He, too, was approached from behind by three suspects who began to hit him about the head and body with an object. The suspects quickly left the area without taking any money/possessions.
CCTV video imagery of the suspects involved in both incidents was captured by cameras operated by University Security. The images were useful in obtaining identifying information from both University Security and Rochester Police officers, as well as from citizen witnesses.
June 12, 2007 SAFETY BULLETIN (Assault & Attempted Robbery - Pedestrian Path
along the Genesee River
near Wilson Blvd. & Library Rd.)
A visitor attending a conference was assaulted during an apparent attempted robbery on Monday evening, June 11, 2007 at about 7:20 P.M. on Wilson Boulevard near Library Road. The male victim was walking on the pedestrian path along the Genesee River. He was approached by three male suspects. The suspects knocked the visitor to the ground while contining to strike and kick him. A student passerby observed what was taking place and immediately notified Security, who called 9-1-1 for Rochester Police. The suspects fled south along Wilson Blvd. The visitor was disoriented and also received a large bump on the head. He was taken by ambulance to Strong Hospital for medical evaluation.
Responding security staff observed the suspects cross over the Genesee River pedestrian bridge and turn north on South Plymouth Avenue and were last seen in the area of Barton Street. Rochester Police conducted a thorough search of the neighborhood, which included the use of a tracking dog. The suspects were not located.
Special security patrols have been added and will be maintained until further notice.
University Security is working aggressively with Rochester Police to identify those responsible. Security Investigators and Rochester Police are reviewing CCTV images to determine if the suspects were engaged in any other activities earlier in the day and into the evening. Special security patrols have been added and will be maintained until further notice.
If you were in the vicinity of Wilson Blvd. during the early evening hours of June 11 and believe you have information about this incident, please call University Security at x5-3333 or the Rochester Police at 9-1-1. As you go about your daily activities we encourage you to continue to stay alert and exercise good safety practices. If you have any questions, you may call the University's Crime Prevention Office at x5-2220.
June 7, 2007 SAFETY BULLETIN (Robbery - Library Rd./
Wilson Blvd. Intersection)
A visitor was the victim of a strong-arm robbery at the intersection of Wilson Boulevard and Library Road at about 1:25 P.M. today, June 7, 2007. The male victim was walking on Library Road. As he reached Wilson Blvd. he was approached from behind by three young suspects, two males and a female. They asked to use his cell phone. One of the male suspects then knocked a cell phone from the victim's hand, picked it up and demanded his wallet. The male suspects acted as if they each possessed a concealed weapon, although no weapon was displayed. The female suspect reached into the victim's pocket and removed money. The suspects left the area and ran south along Wilson Blvd. towards Faculty Road. The victim proceeded to the Blue Light Emergency Phone directly across Wilson Blvd. and alerted Security, who called 9-1-1 for Rochester Police. The visitor was not injured.
Responding security and police officers conducted a thorough check of the area. The suspects were not located. A review of Security's CCTV records show the suspects crossing over the Genesee River pedestrian bridge from South Plymouth Avenue at 1:20 P.M. They are again observed running back towards Plymouth Avenue on the bridge at 1:29 P.M. Follow up investigation has revealed that the suspects approached two University employees (separately) who were walking on opposite sides of Wilson Blvd., just prior to the robbery incident. The suspects asked one employee to use their cell phone. They asked the other for money. In each case the employee declined and continued walking. A short time later, a Rochester resident reported he was riding his bike on the pedestrian bridge towards campus, whom the suspects approached as they fled. The suspects demanded the bike. The owner refused and the suspects continued running towards Plymouth Avenue. No one was injured in these encounters.
Security Investigators have provided CCTV images of the suspects to, and will continue to work with, the Rochester Police. If you were in the vicinity of Wilson Blvd. between Fraternity and Library Roads during the early afternoon and believe you may have information about this incident, please call University Security at x5-3333. As you go about your daily activities we encourage you to continue to exercise good safety practices. Please take a moment to review these safety tips. If you have any questions, you may call the University's Crime Prevention Office at x5-2220.
Safety Tips to Remember - HEADS UP - - STAY AWARE of your surroundings. Display a sense of confidence while walking. Keeping alert is your best defense.
- BUDDY UP - - WALK or TRAVEL WITH SOMEONE whenever possible. There is strength in numbers.
- PLAN AHEAD - - REHEARSE IN YOUR MIND what you might do if confronted with a threatening situation. Do not limit yourself to one action - think about your next steps.
- GIVE IT UP - - DON'T FIGHT BACK if your property is forcibly taken - turn it over rather than risk personal injury.
- STAY CALM - - THINK CAREFULLY about a suspect's description, actions and words - so the information can be relayed quickly to responding officers.
- WHEN YOU ARE SAFE - - CALL UR SECURITY from the nearest Blue Light Emergency Phone or by dialing x13 if on campus - or call #413 from any Cingular or Verizon cell phone, or call the police by dialing 911 from off campus locations. (Every minute counts!)
May 3, 2007 COMMUNITY UPDATE (Off-Campus Robbery
Of A Previously Enrolled UR Student -
Arrest Of Three Suspects)
Rochester Police arrested three suspects in connection with the off-campus strong-arm robbery of a previously enrolled undergraduate male student that occurred at about 10:15 P.M. on Tuesday evening, May 1, 2007, in front of 1098 South Plymouth Avenue near Magnolia Street. He was walking to his residence at the time of the incident.
The student was approached from behind by a lone male riding a bicycle, who knocked the student to the ground. As he got up, at least four more male suspects approached. They began to punch the student, knocking him to the ground a second time. They took the student's bag and forcibly removed a wallet from the student's pocket.
The suspects then fled, running southbound on Plymouth Avenue. The student went directly to a nearby store at the corner of Magnolia Street. A person in the store called 9-1-1. The student suffered an apparent broken nose, facial cuts and bruises. He was taken to Strong Memorial Hospital by ambulance, treated, and released later in the evening.
Responding Rochester police officers conducted a thorough check of the area. They brought in a tracking dog, which led them to a house on nearby Elba Street. Police arrested Daniel Davis (19), Jonathan Williams (17) and Jasey Rodriguez (16). They have been charged with Robbery in the Second Degree and Assault in the Second Degree, Class C and D felonies. Police recovered some of the student's property along with a loaded firearm and a quantity of marijuana from inside the house.
April 20, 2007 COMMUNITY UPDATE (Recent Trespass Arrest Reports)
The following events were reported in the Security Update section of the Campus Times editions published on April 5, 2007 and April 19, 2007. However, we are sharing the information with the River Campus student community, again, to maintain awareness and to resolve questions received from some students about reports involving the suspect identified
March 31, 2007
During the early morning hours of Saturday, March 31, 2007, Jamal Johnson (19), a non-student, was arrested by Security for Trespass in Susan B. Anthony Hall. Earlier that evening a Residential Life staff member informed officers that Johnson was in the building. It was learned, too, that Johnson had been in the building on prior occasions. Security made contact with Johnson and determined he was no longer allowed on the premises. He was issued an interim ban form. Security and Rochester Police escorted him from campus.
Three to four hours later, an alert student security aide observed Johnson re-enter Susan B. Anthony Hall behind a group of students. Officers located Johnson on the fourth floor. The police were summoned and took Johnson into custody for Trespass. Johnson was, again, advised not to return. There have been no subsequent reports of Mr. Johnson's presence on campus.
April 13-14, 2007
A female student reported on April 14 that she encountered a male while attending a function inside the Chi Phi fraternity house on Genesee Street Friday night, April 13. It was confirmed later by Security investigators that the male was the same non-student, Jamal Johnson, who had been involved in the Trespass arrest in SBAH on March 31.
The student met Johnson while socializing at the party. They danced during the evening, at some point during which he learned her name and phone number. Later that night he tried to coerce her into touching him in a sexual manner, which she resisted. The student and a female friend then left the house and returned to campus.
The student reported receiving a phone call from Johnson on Saturday, and immediately hung up. Security was notified and a report taken. She also talked with an officer from the Rochester Police but wanted to consult others before filing a police report.
We are working with Residential Life and Dean of Students staff to determine whether additional information exists regarding Johnson's activities on campus or involving students. As substantive information is learned, it will be shared with the student community on this web page.
If you have information, please call Security at 275-3333 and ask to speak with an on-duty Security supervisor, or request a call-back by an investigator.
March 5, 2007 SAFETY BULLETIN (Robbery - Eastman School of Music -
Barrett Alley)
Monday, March 5, 2007 at 3:31 p.m.
Four juvenile males were taken into custody by Rochester police late this afternoon, minutes after an Eastman undergraduate male reported he had been robbed at gunpoint while walking on Barrett Alley, traveling from the Swan Street to the Gibbs Street side. He had just exited the ESM Annex. The males were seen huddled near the alley entrance, appearing to ward off cold winds. They approached him from the rear and displayed what appeared to be a handgun. They demanded his money, whereupon the student surrendered his wallet. The student was not injured.
The suspects fled eastbound from the alley, running in the general direction of Scio Street. The student went into the Eastman Main Building and called Security at 3:37 pm, who called 9-1-1 for Rochester Police.
While responding to the School, one of the RPD officers observed a group of young males near the intersection of East Main and University. As he attempted to approach they fled on foot, but were apprehended quickly by police. An item appearing to be a handgun was recovered.
A review of Security's CCTV records showed a group of males walk from East Avenue, along the Gibbs Street sidewalk, to Barrett Alley at approximately 3:11 pm. Over the next twenty minutes, the recording shows one or more of them step out from the alley, briefly, and then return. Moments before the robbery, they are recorded by camera congregated on Swan Street at the Barrett Alley entrance. Photo reprints were provided to Rochester Police for further investigation.
As of Monday evening, the four juveniles were in police custody and the Eastman student was being interviewed further. The Security supervisor who responded to Eastman was assigned to remain on patrol at Eastman through the evening until the third, regularly assigned security officer reported for duty at 8 pm. The roving patrol officer will remain stationed at Eastman until 4 am.
Safety Tips to Remember - HEADS UP - - STAY AWARE of your surroundings. Display a sense of confidence while walking. Keeping alert is your best defense.
- PLAN AHEAD - - REHEARSE IN YOUR MIND what you might do if confronted with a threatening situation. Do not limit yourself to one action - think about your next steps.
- GIVE IT UP - - DON'T FIGHT BACK if your property is forcibly taken - turn it over rather than risk personal injury.
- STAY CALM - - THINK CAREFULLY about a suspect's description, actions and words - so the information can be relayed quickly to responding officers.
- WHEN YOU ARE SAFE - - CALL UR SECURITY from the nearest Blue Light Emergency Phone or by dialing x13 if on campus - or call #413 from any Cingular or Verizon cell phone, or call the police by dialing 911 from off campus locations. (Every minute counts!)
February 9, 2007 COMMUNITY UPDATE (Lattimore Hall/Tunnel/Todd Union Bank
Temporarily Closed)
UPDATE - Friday, February 9, 2007, 5:00 pm:
Lattimore Hall will remain closed until the 6:30 am normal opening time on Monday morning, February 12, 2007.
This will allow unimpeded access to the building by work crews over the weekend to make intermediate term repairs to the building's electrical power supply system. Restricting access is for the safety of the University Community.
Temporary power to operate the building's mechanical systems was installed by 9:55 am Friday morning. The electrical cable required for these repairs is being shipped from New Jersey. It will arrive late this evening for installation over the weekend.
As of 4:00 pm Friday afternoon, telecommunications lines are being repaired in Todd Union, Strong Auditorium and Lattimore Hall. Network service is expected to be restored by late Friday evening.
You may call x56111 over the weekend for a recorded message update.
If you have safety concerns, please call University Security at x53333. Report any building equipment concerns to the Customer Service Center at x34567.
Any substantive change in the re-opening of Lattimore Hall will be reported by an e-mail and the University's recorded message update.
Lattimore Hall and the tunnel system between Lattimore and Morey are closed temporarily. Per The College, classes in Lattimore are canceled today. The bank at Todd Union will be closed today.
At about 5:34 am Friday morning alarms were received from Lattimore Hall. There was an electrical fault that resulted in a small fire. The Rochester Fire Department responded. There was smoke but no damage to the building. There were no injuries. Electrical and/or Telecommunications service to Lattimore, Schlegel, Gleason, Strong Auditorium, Todd Union, and Gavett was interrupted.
By 7:30 am University Facilities and IT staff were on-scene assessing the damage. At about 7:40 am electrical service was restored to all buildings except Lattimore. Repair efforts are underway at this time.
In the meantime, Lattimore Hall and the tunnel system between Lattimore and Morey Hall are closed for safety reasons. Please check 275-6111 for updates every 3 hours. In addition, a progress report will be resent mid-day. If you have immediate concerns, contact University Security Services at 275-3333, or the University Customer Service Center at 273-4567.