Timely Warning

The Gainesville Police Department (GPD) confirmed the arrest of the suspect in the sexual battery incident referenced in the Timely Warning issued on July 21, 2016. After conducting their initial investigation, the GPD identified, located, questioned, and took the suspect into custody. Arrested and charged with the crime of sexual battery is Cristopher L. Shaw, 34 of Laurel, Maryland. In order to view Mr. Shaw’s photograph please click here for the UFPD Press Release Page: http://www.police.ufl.edu/mediapublic-information/press-releases/.

The UFPD wants to reemphasize our recognition that crime is never the fault of the victim. We also want to remind everyone however of the safety considerations previously published in an effort to help stop victimization in the UF community from occurring in the future:

If you become a victim of crime, please contact law enforcement immediately by calling 9-1-1.

Immediately report any suspicious person or activity to law enforcement.

Always be alert and aware of your surroundings. This is particularly true if you are wearing headphones and may not be able to hear someone near or behind you.

If someone bothers you, don’t be embarrassed to attract attention to yourself. Yell!

Do not allow anyone to follow you in your residence as you enter.

Stay in well-lighted areas, away from alleys, bushes, or entryways.

Always try to let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.

If possible, walk with others to your destination.

If you believe you are being followed, try to find the nearest populated location to get assistance and call 9-1-1.