On Sunday, April 19, 2015 at approximately 12:45 PM, a female resident of Quincy House reported to the Harvard University Police Department that she observed an unknown male indecently exposing himself in a hallway near a laundry room. The female contacted the HUPD to report the activity. Officers immediately responded to the area and encountered a male in the hallway. The male fled the area. The officers searched the area but were unable to locate the individual.
The offender is described as a black male in his early thirties, approximately 5’10”, medium to heavy build, dark complexion, blemished face, wearing a tweed hat and sport coat and shorts.
If anyone has any information regarding this incident, please contact the Harvard University Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division at 617-495-1796.
If at any time you observe someone acting in a suspicious manner in the area or attempting to enter residences, please call the Harvard University Police Department at 617-495-1212 immediately. Suspicious behavior may include a stranger knocking on your door and asking an out-of-place question, such as did you lose these keys, or making an excuse for being found in your room (“I was looking for…”). Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to store this number in their cell phone. Failing to notify the police immediately can seriously hinder the follow-up investigation.
The Harvard University Police Department wants to remind students, faculty, and staff that we are located in an urban setting and share many of the crime and safety issues that exist in any city. Community members should be vigilant while walking throughout campus and surrounding areas both during the day and at night and to take appropriate precautions. If you are out after dark, try to travel in groups, use only well-lit routes or designated pathways, and do not allow yourself to be distracted by phone calls or by using ear buds. Make use of shuttle buses, and van service. You should also note the location of blue light phones. You can learn more about the shuttles and van service at http://www.transportation.harvard.edu/shuttle-van-services.
Students, faculty, and staff also may call the Harvard University Police Department at 617-495-1212 if they believe they are in danger while waiting for transportation due to the hour or circumstance. The Harvard University Police Department will assist with transportation whenever appropriate.
If you suspect you are being followed, stay away from dimly lit areas and head for a store or building that you know to be open. Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable about someone near you, head for a populated area and call the Harvard University Police Department.
For more detailed information on safety and security please read the Harvard University Police Department's annual security report entitled "Playing it Safe" booklet, which can be found at http://www.hupd.harvard.edu/annual-security-report.
For questions about this advisory, please contact the Harvard University Police Department's Public Information Officer, Steven G. Catalano, at 617-495-9225 or by email at steven_catalano@hupd.harvard.edu.
Disseminated at 10:15 AM on April 21, 2015.