On Wednesday, December 10, 2014 a female graduate student reported to the Cambridge Police Department that she was robbed by an unknown male as she walked along Banks Street at approximately 1:30 AM. The victim stated that while walking on Banks Street she was struck from behind by an unknown male who took her tote bag that contained personal items, including her laptop and wallet. The victim suffered injuries in this incident and received immediate medical attention.
Because this incident did not occur on Harvard University property, it is being investigated by the Cambridge Police Department. If anyone has any information regarding this incident, please contact the Cambridge Police Department at 617-349-3368. Those who wish to submit tips anonymously via phone email, and text message, should visit www.CambridgePolice.org/Tips.
If at any time you observe any type of suspicious activity or have been the victim of a violent crime, regardless of the location of the incident, please notify the Harvard University Police Department immediately at 617-495-1212. Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to store the HUPD’s urgent number in their cell phone.
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 the appropriate precautions, such as walking with others and utilizing the shuttle bus and evening van service whenever possible. 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. Additional safety, escort, and transportation information can be found at www.hupd.harvard.edu/your-role-staying-safe. .
Persons should avoid talking on cell phones, listening to music, or walking too close to persons unnecessarily. 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. If you are approached by someone displaying a weapon and demanding your property, it is recommended that you comply with the request and not resist.
For more detailed information on safety and security please read the Harvard University Police Department's "Playing it Safe" booklet, which can be found at 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 7:20 AM on December 10, 2014.
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