Hamline University Safety and Security Services would like to inform the Hamline Community about three Separate incidents that occurred on campus involving an unknown African American male approaching students and staff. These incidents occurred on February 9, 2006 between 7:30 and 8:30 a.m.
The first incident occurred when a female student was approached on Hewitt by Bush Library, then another female student was approached on Simpson by the Ceramic Studio and the third incident occurred when a staff person was approached at the food counter in the Klas Center.
The first victim reported that the suspect stood in her way, blocked her passage and grabbed her elbow. He did not say anything but looked at her in a "weird" way making her feel very uncomfortable. The victim pulled away and the suspect continued walking eastbound on Hewitt.
After thte incident by Bush Library, the suspect approached another female student on Simpson by hte Ceramics Studio. He approached her from the rear, walked around, stepped in front of her and blocked her way. When the student attempted to walkd around him, he side stepped in front of her and held out his arms. During this encounter he said, "Where are you going?" and then said several times, "I want my f...ing money". The student managed to get by him and she observed him walk west on Taylor towards the Klas Center.
The suspect then entered the Klas Center, approached staff at the food counter and asked, "Can I get a milk and muffin, the come back and pay later?"
The food service worker said that he could not and the suspect then said, "Can't you help me out, I don't have any money." When he was refused a second time, the suspect said, "Thanks for nothing" and stormed out of the building.
Security Officers searched the campus and the suspect was not found. St. Paul Police have been called and information taken.
The description of the suspect vary. Generally, he is described as follows:
African-American Male, approx. 18-25 years old, 5'7" - 6' tall, average to heavy build. Two victims report he was wearing a black puffy jacket. One witness reports he wafs wearing a white puffy winter jacket. One witness reports that a large diamond style stud earring was in his left ear. No additional description.
If anyone sees this person, call 911 immediately for St. Paul Police. Then call our security office as soon as possible at 523-2100. Don't hesitate to call Safety and Security Services immediately if you observe any other suspicious person or activity.
As a reminder, here are some general safety tips:
- If approached or confronted, get away as soon as possible! Run if necessary.
- Go to a safe location immediately and call for help. Call 911 in an emergency. If on or near campus, call Safety and Security as soon as possible for assistance.
- Ignore and walk away from panhandlers or tell them that you call the police.
- If being followed, cross the street adn go the other direction.
- Do not be afraid to make eye contact but do not stare.
- Always know where you are and the nearest safe location.
- Know where you are going and how to get there.
- Know where businesses and public buildings are located and their hours of operation.
- Never aproach a person or situation that appears dangerous. TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS.
- Present a potential attacker with the impression that you are alert, aware of your surroundings and confident. Verbal commands, body language and distance provide a defense that can be used to escape or scare off an attacker.
- Use well-lite streets. Avoid isolated areas. Go with a friend.
- Use the Safety and Security escort services.
- Carry a small amount of cash and give it up easily.
- Always have your keys ready when you approach your vehicle or front door.
- Carrying large or cumbersome packages make you vulnerable.
- Do not let others "piggy back" through locked doors.
- Do not prop doors open.
