University Police Sergeant Melissa Fielding said police now are looking into leads on a reported robbery in Lambeth Field Apartments Wednesday. Police also have adjusted some patrols around Lambeth and increased surveillance in the area.
Police Captain Michael Coleman declined to reveal whether there are any suspects at this time.
Officers use the number and type of past incidents in an area to determine coverage of that area.
Early Wednesday morning, two masked men allegedly walked through the door of a Lambeth suite and robbed four male residents of their wallets and a watch, according to police.
Some Lambeth residents said the reported robbery has raised serious concerns among the residents. It also has led to efforts to increase awareness among students of safety issues around Grounds.
Fielding said students should be alert and aware of their surroundings, walk in groups at night, use common sense and take safety precautions at all times.
"Honestly, crime can happen anywhere at any time," Fielding said.
John Teahan, area coordinator for upper-class apartments and suites said Resident Staff is working in conjunction with University Police to organize a safety seminar to be held early next week. The seminar, open to all Lambeth residents, will cover potential risks and precautionary behavior.
Teahan also said Resident Staff is working on its annual safety newsletter, which should be distributed before spring break. He said that in addition to efforts to educate residents, it is crucial that students hold themselves and their friends accountable to following safety guidelines.
Dean of Students Penny Rue said the administration is working hard to encourage students to lock their doors and to "always exercise caution."
Second-year College student and Lambeth resident Megan Morrison said she is more concerned for her safety after Wednesday's incident.
Morrison said she and her suitemates generally lock their suite door at night, but she will make absolutely sure the outside door is locked from now on.
But Morrison said she thinks some people have never been concerned about safety around Lambeth.
Rue said males are often less likely to consider themselves potential crime victims, so they should try to be more aware of safety issues.
Although Fielding says it doesn't seem there has been an increase in crime in the Lambeth area, some students still are worried.
"People really need to be more aware of what's going on than they used to," Morrison said.
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