As we approach the holiday season, I would like to provide some information to help keep you and your property safe.
The New Haven police have shared with us that they are beginning to see incidents of something called the “Knockout Game”: groups of teenagers or young adults coming up to individuals walking on public streets and hitting them. The goal appears to be to hit and then to run away, rather than robbery. A recent incident happened on the Church Street overpass, near Gateway Community College. Fortunately, police have received reports of only a few of these incidents so far and are actively investigating.
Much like "Apple picking," where thieves on bikes or walking grab an iPhone from a victim and then run away, the “Knockout Game” appears to be a national trend. The Yale police are highly vigilant, as are the Yale security officers, but it is important that you also take precautions, such as not walking alone after dark and being aware of your surroundings at all times. Please call Yale police (432-4400) if you see anyone or anything suspicious, or call 911 in an emergency; avoid isolated areas, particularly after dark; and use campus services, such as security escorts or the Yale shuttle.
As always, try not to make yourself an easy target: every time you are walking and texting or talking on the phone, or listening to music with earphones, you are more susceptible to crime.
Your physical safety is of paramount concern, but the upcoming holidays are also a good time to increase awareness about your property. Never leave any portable electronic device unattended—even for a minute, even in a place you feel comfortable being—and remember to lock your doors and windows, particularly if you are leaving campus for the holidays.
On behalf of the men and women of the Yale Police Department, my best wishes for a happy and safe Thanksgiving and winter breaks.
Ronnell A. Higgins
Chief, Yale University Police
The New Haven police have shared with us that they are beginning to see incidents of something called the “Knockout Game”: groups of teenagers or young adults coming up to individuals walking on public streets and hitting them. The goal appears to be to hit and then to run away, rather than robbery. A recent incident happened on the Church Street overpass, near Gateway Community College. Fortunately, police have received reports of only a few of these incidents so far and are actively investigating.
Much like "Apple picking," where thieves on bikes or walking grab an iPhone from a victim and then run away, the “Knockout Game” appears to be a national trend. The Yale police are highly vigilant, as are the Yale security officers, but it is important that you also take precautions, such as not walking alone after dark and being aware of your surroundings at all times. Please call Yale police (432-4400) if you see anyone or anything suspicious, or call 911 in an emergency; avoid isolated areas, particularly after dark; and use campus services, such as security escorts or the Yale shuttle.
As always, try not to make yourself an easy target: every time you are walking and texting or talking on the phone, or listening to music with earphones, you are more susceptible to crime.
Your physical safety is of paramount concern, but the upcoming holidays are also a good time to increase awareness about your property. Never leave any portable electronic device unattended—even for a minute, even in a place you feel comfortable being—and remember to lock your doors and windows, particularly if you are leaving campus for the holidays.
On behalf of the men and women of the Yale Police Department, my best wishes for a happy and safe Thanksgiving and winter breaks.
Ronnell A. Higgins
Chief, Yale University Police
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