Hamline University Safety and Security Services would like to inform the Hamline Community about a purse snatch that occurred on campus on May 1, 2006 at approximately 8:50 p.m.
A Nacel faculty member was on the sidewalk on the south side of Hewitt between Giddens Learning Center and the Bush Library when the incident happened. Two male suspects crossed Hewitt Avenue and approacher her. One of the suspects grabbed her handbag from her shoulder and both suspects then ran east on Hewitt, then north on Simpson and then east on Taylor. The victim was not injured and no words were exchanged. The police responded and made a report. An immediate search of the area was conducted by police and security officers but the suspects were not found. Some of the victim's loss was recovered in the search.
SUSPECT DESCRIPTIONS: 2 African-American males, 18 – 20 years. Both suspects were wearing black hooded sweatshirts and had medium afro hairstyles. One suspect was 5’7” – 5’8” and the second suspect was 5’10” – 5’11”.
Please call Safety and Security immediately if you see suspicious activity on or near campus. 24 hour dispatch 651-523-2100. From a campus phone dial 2100.
Here are some general safety tips when out and about:
- If approached or confronted, get away as soon as possible! Run if necessary.
- Go to a safe location immediately and call for help. Call 9-1-1 in an emergency. If on or near campus, call Safety & Security as soon as possible for assistance.
- Use well-lighted streets. Avoid isolated areas. Go with a friend.
- Use the Safety and Security escort service.
- Carry a small amount of cash and give it up readily.
- Always have your keys ready when you approach your vehicle or front door.
- Carrying large or cumbersome packages make you vulnerable.
- Ignore and walk away from panhandlers or tell them that you will call the police.
- If being followed, cross the street and go the other direction. Know where you are going and how to get there.
- Know where businesses and public buildings are located and their hours of operation.
- Never approach 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.
