May 12, 2008

On May 11, 2008, at approximately 10:22 p.m., two Drexel male students reported that in the area of 33rd and Powelton Avenue they were robbed while entering their residence by a black male, 6'3", approximately 240 lbs., wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, armed with a handgun. One student was robbed of his cash and the second student was robbed of his wallet as he did not have any cash. The perpetrator fled on foot and neither student was injured.

Philadelphia Police investigated the incident. The Philadelphia Police Officer assigned to Drexel University's detail detained an individual matching the description outside of Van Rensselaer Hall, however, the Drexel students were unable to positively identify the suspect.

The description of the perpetrator was broadcast to all surrounding law enforcement agencies.

May 9, 2008

On May 8, 2008, at approximately 11:20 p.m., a Drexel male student reported that in the area of 33rd and Spring Garden Streets he was approached by four black male juvenials (13-17 years of age), one with a firearm, and robbed of his wallet and cell phone. The perpetrators fled on foot.  One black male is described as being 16 years of age, 5'2", 150lbs., wearing a dark blue hooded sweatshirt. The student sustained no injuries and no threats were made. Philadelphia Police were notified by the Drexel student and Drexel Public Safety reponded to the scene of the incident.

May 6, 2008

On May 5, 2008, at approximately 10:43 p.m., a Drexel male student reported that while walking on 37th and Ludlow Streets (off-campus) he was approached by 8-10 black males, one with a firearm, and robbed of his cash.  The perpetrators fled on foot.  The student sustained no injuries and reported the incident to 911.  Philadelphia Police responded and apprehended three males that were taken into custody, two of which were positively identified (one male 18 years of age and the second male 21 years of age) by the Drexel student.

In lieu of the weekend robbery at 36th and Spring Garden Streets on May 26, 2008 and this incident, Drexel Public Safety is working with Penn Police, the University City District and Philadelphia Police to coordinate resources to head off the potential for criminal activity as the weather gets warmer.  Drexel Public Safety is also intensifying its video patrol concentrating on packs of youths commuting through Drexel’s University City Main Campus.

May 2, 2008

On May 2, 2008, at approximately 2:40 a.m., a Drexel male student reported that he had been robbed of his cash at gunpoint at 36th and Spring Garden Streets (off-campus). The assailants were reported to be three juvenile (16-17 years of age) black males, two with firearms, and traveling on bikes. There was no further identifying information reported.

The Philadelphia Police were notified and are investigating the incident. This crime was a single incident.

The Department of Public Safety encourages members of the Drexel community to stay alert, especially during the late evening and early morning hours, and report any suspicious activity to Philadelphia Police and Public Safety.


General Safety Tips:

1. Stay Alert, be confident and know your environment
2. Travel with others, especially at night or call 215-895-2822 for a Drexel walking escort.
3. Avoid walking in dark and/or less traveled areas
4. If a problem arises remain calm and trust your instincts
5. If necessary, use the emergency call boxes to contact Drexel Public Safety emergency dispatch at 215-895-2222.

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