By: Molly Gase
PNC bank, located on East Exchange Street was robbed Friday afternoon. A safety alert was issued through email at 12:50 p.m.
The email stated that the police are now “seeking a white male, standing 5 feet, 8 inches tall, weighing about 170, wearing glasses, a black cap and black clothing, including a North Face jacket.” It was also reported that the subject might have been wearing an article of red clothing, either a scarf or red shirt.
The suspect did not show any form of weapon in the robbery. He was last seen running down Buckeye Street in the direction of Carroll Street.
Within the email alert, students were encouraged to submit tips to the police.
Safety concerns are addressed within the message to students telling them to “take precautions and to submit any tips they may have.” The message continues on to say that “previous advisories have prompted several people to submit valuable tips that have led to arrest.”
In response to this and other crimes in the recent past near campus, the University has increased its police staff. They are now increasing their full-time officers by adding eight, giving them a current count of 44 full-time officers. These officers patrol both campus and surrounding neighborhoods.
The University of Akron Police Department’s homepage shares suggestions on crime prevention for students and safety on and around campus. The crime prevention program of UAPD allows a candid relationship between the UA Police and the population of UA.
“University police offers educational programs to students and employees on personal safety, sexual/acquaintance rape prevention, drug and alcohol prevention, and other related topics,” the website states. The UAPD places an emphasis on prevention and safety through knowledge.
Another safety measure that is provided by The University of Akron is the emergency phones placed throughout campus. The bright blue columns house emergency phones that connect callers immediately with the police. There are over 80 emergency phones, most of which are located outdoors. Some are located indoors, mainly within the elevators. These phones are tested weekly.
University detectives can be reached at 330-972-2911. Students can also submit confidential tips by texting the word CRIMES (274637). The message must begin with the keyword ZIPTIP. These confidential tips allow more detailed information to be given, including images.