In light of concerns about recent off-campus crimes, we want to assure you that we understand these events are distressing and want you to know that we are actively addressing this situation. We are working closely with the Baltimore County Police Department to address our university community’s safety concerns. In response, the Baltimore County police have increased nighttime patrols and added officers to enhance the police presence in neighborhoods adjacent to the university. These increased patrols will remain in place through the end of the fall semester.
In addition, our own Towson University Police Department has deployed additional resources in order to have a more visible presence on the York Road side of campus, particularly at night in the Burke Avenue-Aigburth Road corridor of York Road. TUPD officers will also focus attention on the roadways surrounding our campus, especially Burke Avenue, York Road and Cross Campus Drive.
While Towson University and Baltimore County police are taking extra measures to address the incidents this week and to keep the area safe, each individual can also do his or her part. Here are actions we can all take to stay safe:
- Be alert! Look around you, and maintain an awareness of your surroundings. Make it difficult for anyone to take you by surprise.
- When walking at night, keep your cell phone available but out of sight.
- Don’t walk and text at the same time; again, be aware of your surroundings and alert to what is happening around you.
- If listening to music, keep the volume low so you can hear what is going on around you.
- If you exercise at night or in the dark, do so with a friend and wear bright, reflective clothing.
- Never walk alone at night. Travel in groups of two or more and always travel in well-lit, heavily traveled areas. Use Towson’s Police Escort Service by calling 410-704-SAFE (7233).
- Follow your intuition and trust your gut. If something doesn’t look or seem right, contact the police.
- When you are going out, tell a friend where you are going and when you will return. Carry a whistle or noise maker, which can serve as reminders to exercise caution and can alert someone in the area if you need help. Whistles are available free of charge at the TUPD Community Outreach Office.
- Always lock your doors and windows.
- If you are the victim of a crime, report it to the police immediately.
- Contact TUPD by dialing 410-704-4444 for on-campus emergencies.
We are committed to doing everything possible to create a safe environment for our students, faculty and staff as they walk to, from and around our campus. Thank you for remaining vigilant and assisting us in these efforts. Your safety is our primary concern.
Maravene Loeschke, President, Towson University
