Recent Robberies At Johns Hopkins Lead To Stronger Police Presence
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Stepping up security. Several recent crimes at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine are putting police and hospital officials on alert.
Linh Bui explains these new precautions.
Since mid-July, several Hopkins employees have been attacked or robbed near campus. But these new security measures should make the community safer.
You'll see a stronger police presence around Johns Hopkins--more foot and bike patrols between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m. along N. Wolfe and N. Washington Streets.
"I notice the Johns Hopkins security guards every time I go up that way. They're coming farther and farther down. So it might help the community," said Charles Beattie.
There are plans for increased security on Ashland Avenue and a security kiosk outside student apartments on N. Wolfe.
Three different incidents led to the increase in security--a person's cell phone was stolen, another person was robbed and a third person was assaulted.
Hopkins released this statement to WJZ:
"Our security department takes all crimes very seriously and they act quickly to ensure the well being and comfort of the community, our patients, their families, our students and staff."
"It's a little disturbing. It's hard to keep your personal things safe," said Kenya Smith.
Police say the majority of robberies in the city are cell phone related, so always be aware of your surroundings.
"Make sure they're walking in well lit areas," Sgt. Eric Kowalczyk, Baltimore City Police. "That they walk in groups whenever possible and that they're not advertising the fact that they have a cell phone. We don't want to see anyone become the victim of a crime."
Baltimore City Police have recently made six arrests related to robberies in the area. They're also stepping up patrols.
"What you won't see are the unmarked and undercover officers that have been put into the area," said Kowalczyk.
People living near Hopkins say they're glad more officers are around.
Baltimore City Police are still following up on leads and expect to make several more arrests related to robberies near Hopkins.
If you ever see anything suspicious you want to report, contact Baltimore City Police.
