Purdue police want public's help in solving recent strong-arm robberies

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Purdue University police are seeking the public's help in solving a series of three robberies on campus that were reported over the weekend.

Each incident involved two to four male suspects who assaulted the victims from behind and then fled. Purdue police believe the attacks could be connected. In two of the three incidents, the victims were walking alone. In the third, two people were attacked and robbed. One victim was treated for minor injuries at a local hospital and released.

Robberies were reported at approximately 9:40 p.m. Friday (Oct. 26) in the 1000 block of Third Street; at 4:29 a.m. Sunday (Oct. 28) in the 600 block of North Russell Street; and at 12:30 a.m. Monday (Oct. 29) in the 300 block of Centennial Mall Drive.

"We want anyone who saw anything they think might have been related to call the police department," said Purdue police Chief John Cox. "We also want people to be vigilant, to be aware of what's going on around them and report anything suspicious to the police."

To reach police in an emergency, dial 911.  The "blue light" Emergency Telephone System call boxes spread around campus can also be used to call police in an emergency. Anyone who has information can call the Purdue Police Department at 765-494-8221 or its anonymous tipline at 765-496-3784. The WeTip anonymous hotline, which is used by all Greater Lafayette law enforcement agencies, also is available at 1-800-78CRIME (1-800-782-7463).

Police also are urging safety precautions.

The Purdue Police Department's "Safe Walk" program provides students the opportunity to have a Purdue Student Security Patrol member or a Purdue police officer walk them home from the academic campus when they feel unsafe. The Safe Walk program operates on and near campus 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling 765-494-SAFE (7233).

Students are encouraged to register their laptops with the police department to aid in the recovery of lost or stolen computers. A link for "Laptop Computer Registration" is at the bottom left corner of police department's website.

Laptop computer registrants will be asked to provide the serial number and make and model. After the online form is submitted, the owner will receive confirmation that the registration is on file.

Credit card owners should keep a list of their cards and numbers that they do not carry with them.

Writer: Jim Bush, 765-494-2077, jsbush@purdue.edu