January 23, 2004

VUPD# 04-2201,2248,2890, 2076
MNPD# 04-26197,26819,33887,24759

VUPD has received reports of four burglaries occurring in dorm rooms during the last week. Specifically burglaries were reported at Branscomb Quad on January 17 and January18. Carmichael Towers East had burglaries reported on January 18 and January 23. In all these incidents laptop computers were stolen from unoccupied dorm rooms that had been left unlocked. The collective time frame for the four incidents is reported as having been between 9:30 pm and 1:30 am. For further information please see the Daily Crime Report.

Based on the pattern of the above incidents, we felt it important to use a Security Alert to inform the Vanderbilt Community of these burglaries. Generally incidents that occur in unoccupied dorm rooms will not generate a Security Alert. As in the past these incidents will be posted on the Daily Crime Report. Students should refer to the Crime Report to keep abreast on all crimes reported to VUPD. The Daily Crime Report can be located at http://police.vanderbilt.edu/

IF YOU HAVE INFORMATION RELATING TO THESE OR SIMILAR INCIDENTS,

PLEASE CALL VU POLICE AT 32(2-2745)

IF YOU WISH TO REMAIN ANONYMOUS,

CALL CRIME STOPPERS AT 74-CRIME (742-7463).

PLEASE REMEMBER

• Stay alert and TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS -- If you feel uneasy, leave. 
• On or off campus, walk/jog/bike in groups of three or more in well-lighted and well-traveled areas; otherwise, after dark on campus, use the ESCORT SERVICE. (NOTE: Before parking on campus after dark, stop by the Police & Security Building at 2800 Vanderbilt Place or the ER.
• Ask for an officer to meet & escort you from your parking space.)
• Scan the area before you exit or approach your vehicle/building and while you proceed between sites.
• Have your key ready in hand to quickly access the door of your vehicle/building.
• If strangers approach, maintain a distance and be observant; if they are in a vehicle, get the license plate number.
• Lock doors and windows of your room/building. Don't prop open doors, thwart security measures, or let strangers in.
• Avoid going to ATM's alone, after dark, or if suspicious persons are nearby.
• Think ahead about what you would do under dire circumstances. Try to get a description.

** REPORT SUSPICIOUS PERSONS, VEHICLES, OR ACTIVITIES IMMEDIATELY! **

ON CAMPUS, DIAL 1-1911 OR USE A BLUE LIGHT PHONE!

(NOTE: In Medical Center shuttle lots & Lot 72, call 421-1911!)