As the school year started, many students anticipated homework and stress. What many did not expect was crime on campus.
Paul W. Timmreck, senior vice president for finance and administration, addressed the VCU community through e-mail about a robbery that occurred Aug. 29.
The e-mail stated a student walking near the West Main Street Parking Deck was approached at approximately 3 a.m. by two men. The men stole the student’s wallet and cell phone.
Sgt. Jon McAchren of the VCU Police investigative division said the VCU Police Department have a description of the two men, but there is no new information.
McAchren said the personal safety of students is always a concern and has advice for students.
“Try not to be out late by yourself,” McAchren said. “If you’re out, stay in well-lit areas and pay attention to what’s around you.”
It seems students are becoming more aware of their surroundings, especially those living within close proximity to where the robbery took place.
Meredith Nuckols lives in the Gladding Residence Center on the corner of Laurel and West Main streets, and has become more cautious, she said.
Nuckols said now she uses the buddy system and tries to avoid the Monroe Park area after dark. Like others on campus, Nuckols said she thought the robbery was a shock.
“I didn’t know it would happen so early in the year,” she said.