Public Safety

Attempted Armed Robbery

The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office is investigating an attempted robbery which occurred on Monday, September 15, 2008 at 5:20 p.m.

The victim reports that while on the second level of the parking garage, three men in a vehicle drove up to him and began asking him questions.  One occupant snatched the phone out of his hand.  The men demanded money from the victim for return of the phone and when he told them he didn’t have any money they pulled a long gun on the victim and continued asking him for cash or other valuables in exchange for the phone.  The men returned the phone and sped off.  There were no injuries or stolen property.

Little identification is available on the suspects in the case.  All are described as black males, one has a low (short) haircut and another has medium length hair which may be in dreds.  The suspects were in a dark blue, Ford Taurus, with an unknown tag.

This and other notifications are intended to raise awareness about criminal activity on or near Jacksonville University property and in areas frequented by faculty, staff and students. Anyone with information concerning this incident should contact JU Public Safety  at (904) 256-7585 or contact Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office directly at 9-1-1.  JU Public Safety urges all members of the campus community to remain observant of their surroundings while walking to and from their vehicles.  Direct any assistance or requests from strangers to the Public Safety Department.

• Know where the emergency call boxes are located on campus and learn how to use them.
• If you are being followed, change direction and go to the nearest building or room; knock on the door, and request that someone call the Police. Note the description of the person following you.
• Walk near the curb and avoid shrubbery or other places of potential concealment.
• Stay alert to your surroundings and the people around you.
• Carry your purse close to your body and keep a firm grip on it; carry your wallet in an inside coat pocket or your front pant pocket.
• Don’t overload yourself with bags or packages and avoid wearing shoes that restrict your movements.
• Walk with a confident stride; keep your head up and look around.
• If a motorist stops and asks for directions or assistance, keep your distance from the car..

This timely warning has been issued in compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act.

September 15, 2008