Timely Warning

The UFPD is currently investigating an attempted strong armed robbery that took place Thursday evening at approximately 7:00pm outside of the Stephen C. O’Connell Center (SCOC) and Garage #7. According to the victim, he left his parents within the SCOC, retrieved an item from his parents’ vehicle, and was returning to the SCOC s when he was approached by the suspect. The suspect grabbed the victim’s hand and stated “give me your keys”. As the victim stepped back, the suspect then let go of his arm and stated “I don’t want any trouble” and ran away. The victim then reported the incident to his parents and UFPD. A search of the area was conducted but the suspect was not located and believed to have fled off campus.

The suspect is described as a white male, approximately 5’08"-5’10", 20-30 years old, wearing a North Face black jacket and blue jeans.

Anyone with information about the incident or who may know the suspects identity is asked to call the University of Florida Police Department at 352-392-1111. Those who wish to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 352-372-STOP (7867) or through the UFPD Silent Witness program located at: http://www.police.ufl.edu/wp-content/asp/secure_ufpd/silent_witness.aspx .

The UFPD firmly believes that crime is never the fault of the victim. These general safety tips are provided in an effort to assist members of the UF community.

Report criminal incident and suspicious activities/individuals immediately to law enforcement by calling 9-1-1.

Avoid walking alone if at all possible.

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!

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

If a driver stops to ask directions, avoid getting close to the individual or vehicle.

If a vehicle appears to be following you, turn and walk in the opposite direction. You should go to a location where other people are and get assistance.

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