Several students at the University of Maryland feel uneasy due to the frequency of alerts from the University of Maryland Police Department this semester.Â
The most recent alert was sent to students on November 29 at 10:49 p.m. The University of Maryland Police Department reported an assault with a weapon at Regents Drive Garage and later specified that the incident occurred with a knife and the victim sustained minor injuries. UMPD was unable to track down the suspect at the time of the crime.Â
The incident is one of many on or near-campus crimes that have happened this semester. Students have received alerts about carjackings, vandalism by gunfire, robberies with a weapon and voyeur incidents. Though many of these incidents occur off campus, many students live in or frequently walk around the affected areas.Â
According to a survey of 13 UMD students, 76% said they think the frequency of alerts has increased since last semester and 84% feel uneasy about the frequency of alerts.Â
“I don’t like that there’s so much crime, but at least UMPD is transparent with the alerts,” said sophomore criminology major Lindsay Fisher.Â
On November 29, South Hill and Leonardtown residents received an email from Community Director Nakia Johnson about an unknown person entering residence halls and requesting entry into units with suites and apartments.Â
Sophomore South Hill resident Luke Stadler said the email was not a big concern and feels he and his roommates had already taken appropriate safety precautions. South Hill resident Hannah Scopp agreed, though commented she plans on locking her door more often during the day.Â
Residents in all campus buildings are advised to lock their doors and not let unfamiliar people inside. If you feel uncomfortable walking around campus by yourself, students can request a UMPD police walking escort or NITE Ride.Â
There are several personal steps you can take to stay safe, including sharing your location with friends on campus via Find My Friends or Life360, carrying pepper spray and remaining aware of your surroundings.Â
UMPD can be reached at 301-314-3555 for non-emergencies and 301-405-3333 for emergencies, or call 911.Â