BY KIM BATES
Another robbery near Drake’s campus occurred in the late evening of Nov. 1. This is the third campus robbery in four weeks.
The robbery took place on the pathway to Greek Street, behind Drake’s West Village. Two Drake students were robbed at gunpoint, but neither of them were physically harmed in the incident.
A Bulldog Alert was released at 8:42 p.m., saying a report of the robbery was received and that Drake students should expect an increase in police presence. A follow-up Bulldog Alert was released at 8:56 p.m., saying that the suspect had left the area. The suspect was described as an African-American male between the ages of 25-30 years old, 220 pounds and wearing an orange sweatshirt.
Mid-morning of Nov. 2, Martin sent out an email detailing the incident and offering consolation.
“I want to assure all of you that I am committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment in which you can live and learn,” Martin said. “That is my first priority and it is a commitment shared by Drake Public Safety and the University’s entire administrative team. This is the third robbery that has taken place near campus in the last four weeks. It appears that some individual or individuals are targeting our neighborhood and that requires extra vigilance from all of us until the police have captured the perpetrator(s).”
It is unknown if or how these incidents are connected. On campus there is an extension of SafeRide hours. Extra lighting and security cameras are being put in place for extra security. Off-duty Des Moines Police will be patrolling the area on weeknights and weekends to ensure safety of students and residents.
“I again give thanks that our students were not physically injured, and I assure all of you that we are working as hard as we can on this,” Martin said.
In the email supplied by Martin, there is a list of resources and tips on how to stay safe on campus. They are as follows.
- Tell others where you are going and when you expect to arrive.
- Stick with friends; walk in pairs or groups.
- Travel in well-lit areas, avoiding secluded places.
- Carry your ID and phone but avoid technology distractions while walking.
- If you consume alcohol, know your limits and be around others who can watch out for you.
- Use the Drake Guardian App when travelling around campus. Utilize the safety timer, as well as the “tips” app if you see something of concern.
- Through this Saturday, SafeRide is available for its normal hours of 8:00 p.m. to 2:45 a.m. Starting Sunday the hours will expand to 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. every day of the week at least through November 20.
- If you need an escort at night outside of SafeRide hours please call Drake Public Safety at 515-271-2222.
