UKPD Doubling Patrols in Wake of Recent Robberies

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Sept. 23, 2010) – University of Kentucky Police Chief Joe Monroe said today that his department is doubling the number of patrols on and around campus in the wake of a recent rash of robberies in the campus area.

Monroe said Lexington Metro Police also would provide additional officers in the area to help with patrols.

UK Student Government officials reminded students about the association’s SAFECATS program that provides free escort service by the Air Force ROTC. Whether students are going between the library and their residence halls, or across campus, the SAFECATS service escorts students to their destination free of charge. Call 257-SAFE Sunday-Thursday, 8:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Also, UK Parking and Transportation offers after-hours on-demand bus service by calling 257-SAFE(7233).

"We want to assure the campus and the larger community that we are doing everything possible to ensure the safety of our students, faculty and staff," Monroe said. "At the same time, we are doubling our efforts to try to apprehend those responsible for these acts. This type of offense will not be tolerated and we are working around the clock to arrest those responsible."

Monroe – who was joined at a news conference this evening by Lexington Police, and Student Government representatives – said he did not think the recent robberies were related. In most cases, witnesses or victims have offered different descriptions of the perpetrators.

"UK is a safe campus, we are confident in that. This recent outbreak of robberies in our campus community does not alter the fact that UK is a safe place for students," said Max Stefka, deputy chief of staff of campus services for Student Government. "We appreciate all that UK PD and the administration of the university are doing now and have always done to make UK a place where students feel at home and safe. UK PD has partnered with us to plan forums to hear students’ ideas to improve campus safety, and our campus has seen improvements based on those discussions."

UK Police and campus emergency management officials have issued four safety alerts in the last two weeks for reported incidents of robberies on or near campus. Most have occurred in the area of Woodland Avenue near the Cooperstown Apartments.

Monroe urged anyone with information to call UK police at (859) 257-1616. At the same time, parents with concerns can e-mail parents@lsv.uky.edu. Students who have concerns can contact the UK Counseling Center at (859) 257-8701 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday or (859) 457-0022 after hours.

"Safety is our top priority on this campus," Monroe said. "This is a safe campus and a safe community but ensuring that remains the case requires vigilance and a steadfast commitment. That's what we are here tonight to assure the campus community of – that we are doing everything possible to ensure their safety today and into the future."