• Home
• Your Safety
• Crime Notices

Crime Notices

Carjacking

Chicago Campus - December 29, 2021

A carjacking was reported at around 6 p.m. today on the Chicago Campus.

The victim reported to the Northwestern University Police Department that as they were parked along the curb on the 700 block of North St. Clair Street, outside of their vehicle while they were dropping off family members, they were approached by three offenders, one armed with a handgun. The armed offender confronted the victim and ordered them away from the unoccupied vehicle. Two offenders got into the victim’s vehicle and drove eastbound on East Superior Street. The third offender fled on foot, south on North St. Clair Street and then westbound on East Huron Street, in the direction of Michigan Avenue. 

There are no usable descriptions of the suspects at this time.

The victim was not physically injured and declined medical treatment.

The Chicago Police Department is investigating this incident and reviewing camera footage from the area.

If you have information regarding this incident, please contact the Chicago Police Department at 312-746-6000.

While becoming a victim of crime is never the fault of the victim, the following list of practices may help safeguard individuals from becoming victims of robbery:

• Travel well-lighted, busy routes. Avoid walking or parking in shadowed areas. Have your keys in your hand as you approach your door and remember to be alert to what and who is around you.
• Be careful with cell phones, laptops, purses and wallets on and off campus. Avoid text messaging or talking on the phone if you do not absolutely need to. Keep bags secure and wallets in an inside pocket.
• If you are confronted, COOPERATE! Give the offender what they ask for — wallet, keys, jewelry, credit cards and electronics. Don’t make sudden moves or try to apprehend the offender yourself. Concentrate on remembering a description and call the police immediately.
• Remove valuables from your car or hide them out of view.
• Know the locations of the blue light emergency call boxes throughout campus. These phones provide direct communications with the Northwestern University Police Department Dispatch Center and identify the location from which you are calling.
• Report any threats to public safety immediately to the Northwestern Police Department at 847-491-3456 or dial 911.

For your most up to date security policies, crime prevention programs and crime statistics, please review the Northwestern University Annual Security Report.

Robbery

Chicago Campus - December 11, 2021

An armed robbery was reported to have occurred around 6 a.m. today on the Chicago Campus.

The victim reported to the Northwestern University Police Department that as they were walking in the 200 block of East Superior Street near Fairbanks Street, they were approached from behind by an individual who confronted them with a handgun. The victim was robbed of their belongings and the suspect fled in an awaiting silver vehicle, departing east on Superior Street.

There are no usable descriptions of the suspects at this time.

The victim was not physically injured and declined medical treatment.

The Chicago Police Department is investigating this incident and camera footage from the area is being reviewed.

If you have information regarding this incident, please contact the Chicago Police Department at 312-746-6000.

While becoming a victim of crime is never the fault of the victim, the following list of practices may help safeguard individuals from becoming victims of robbery:

• Travel well-lighted, busy routes. Avoid walking or parking in shadowed areas. Have your keys in your hand as you approach your door and remember to be alert to what and who is around you.
• Be careful with cell phones, laptops, purses and wallets on and off campus. Avoid text messaging or talking on the phone if you do not absolutely need to. Keep bags secure and wallets in an inside pocket.
• If you are confronted, COOPERATE! Give the offender what they ask for — wallet, keys, jewelry, credit cards and electronics. Don’t make sudden moves or try to apprehend the offender yourself. Concentrate on remembering a description and call the police immediately.
• Remove valuables from your car or hide them out of view.
• Know the locations of the blue light emergency call boxes throughout campus. These phones provide direct communications with the Northwestern University Police Department Dispatch Center and identify the location from which you are calling.
• Report any threats to public safety immediately to the Northwestern Police Department at 847-491-3456 or dial 911.

For your most up to date security policies, crime prevention programs and crime statistics, please review the Northwestern University Annual Security Report.

Off-Campus Shooting

Evanston - November 28, 2021

The Northwestern University Police Department was notified this evening at 7:17 p.m. of a shooting in the City of Evanston at 1950 Green Bay Road, a gas station and convenience store near the Evanston Campus.

The Evanston Police Department (EPD) reported that it received multiple calls of shots being fired in the area and located five gunshot victims. One victim has died. According to EPD, the other four victims were two males and two females, ranging in age from 14 to 18 years old.

Currently there are no suspects in custody.

If you have information regarding this incident, please contact the Evanston Police Department at 847-866-5000.

For further information, consider reviewing the public information the Evanston Police Department is sharing on its Twitter page.

While becoming a victim of crime is never the fault of the victim, the following list of practices may help safeguard individuals from becoming victims:

• Know the locations of the blue light emergency call boxes throughout campus. These phones provide direct communications with the Northwestern University Police Department Dispatch Center and identify the location from which you are calling.
• Report any threats to public safety immediately to the Northwestern Police Department at 847-491-3456 or dial 911.

For the most up-to-date security policies, crime prevention programs and crime statistics, please review the Northwestern University Annual Security Report. 

Aggravated Assault

Evanston - October 29, 2021

The University has received multiple reports in which individuals allege they were drugged without consent while attending recent gatherings at off-campus locations in Evanston. At least one of the reports was associated with a gathering believed to be organized by Northwestern students.

If you have any information regarding these reports or other incidents, please promptly contact the Northwestern University Police at 847-491-3456. In an emergency, please dial 911.

Northwestern cares about the safety and well-being of our students. If you suspect that you or a friend has symptoms that may indicate nonconsensual drugging, call 911 or go to the emergency room, where you can get medical attention and/or request a screening for nonconsensual drugging. Signs of drugging can be similar to overconsumption. Signs or symptoms usually begin within 15 to 30 minutes of ingesting the substance. 

For those who may need help processing the news of these reports, know that there are resources Northwestern has to help you. Assistance is available at Counseling and Psychological Services, Student Assistance and Support Services, Religious and Spiritual Life, Employee Assistance Program, University Health Service, Evanston Hospital or any medical provider of your preference. Please reach out to get the help that you need.

For the most up-to-date security policies, crime prevention programs and crime statistics, please review the Northwestern University Annual Security Report .

Burglary Update

Evanston Campus - October 26, 2021

Northwestern University Police have identified suspects in the theft of more than 4,500 Northwestern-owned COVID-19 test kits that were reported stolen Monday, Oct. 25, from a secure location in the Foster-Walker Complex, 1927 Orrington Ave., on the Evanston campus.

Most of the stolen property was recovered from the suspects, who are Northwestern students. NUPD continues to investigate the incident.

If you have information regarding this incident, please contact the Northwestern University Police at 847-491-3456. 

Burglary

Evanston Campus - October 25, 2021

• Lock all doors and windows.
• Get to know your neighbors. Extra sets of eyes keeping a watch on your property and reporting suspicious activity can help deter crimes.
• Remember, your room door is actually your front door. Keep it locked even when leaving only for a few minutes.
• Leave interior lights on. Burglars are more likely to break in if they think you are away from home.
• If you come home to find an unexplained open/broken window or door:

• Ensure valuables are not visible from the street, especially high-end electronics.
• Report any suspicious activity immediately to the Northwestern University Police Department at 847-491-3456 or dial 911.
• Know the locations of the blue light emergency call boxes throughout campus. These phones provide direct communications with the Northwestern University Police Department Dispatch Center and identify the location from which you are calling.

For your most up to date security policies, crime prevention programs and crime statistics, please review the Northwestern University Annual Security Report.

Motor Vehicle Thefts

Chicago Campus - October 2, 2021

• Always lock your vehicle, close all windows and sunroofs, and take your keys or key fob
• Never hide your key in the vehicle
• Never leave your vehicle running when unattended
• When parking on the street, always set your emergency brake and turn wheel into the curb to deter theft by tow truck
• Use a car alarm or other anti-theft devices
• Know the locations of the blue light emergency callboxes throughout campus. These phones provide direct communications with the Northwestern University Police Department Dispatch Center and identify the location from which you are calling.
• Report any threats to public safety immediately to the Northwestern Police Department at 847-491-3456 or dial 911

For your most up to date security policies, crime prevention programs and crime statistics, please review the Northwestern University Annual Security Report.

Aggravated Assault

Evanston Campus - September 25, 2021

The University received a report today, Sept. 25, from an individual alleging they were drugged without consent at a gathering last night at 2325 Sheridan Rd. in Evanston. The University is investigating this report and continues to investigate separate, similar reports it received on Sept. 24. Both reported locations are on-campus fraternity houses. If you have information regarding any of these reports, please promptly contact Northwestern University Police at 847-491-3456. 

The University’s policy is that on-campus fraternity and sorority houses are alcohol-free spaces. Given the recent allegations, the locations of these reported behaviors and Northwestern’s commitment to the health and safety of our community, the University has decided that effective immediately, there will be no social events or chapter-sponsored recruitment activities at Northwestern fraternities in the Interfraternity Council (IFC) until at least Oct. 17. That includes events with non-members, such as alumni. Individuals or groups who violate this restriction, or any other University policy, will be referred to the Office of Community Standards. 

The University has been in communication with IFC leadership, who understand the seriousness of these reports and the importance of the investigations. Earlier today, the IFC unanimously passed a resolution outlining restrictive measures in partnership with the University’s decision, and communicated to the University that they are instituting a ban on all social activities inclusive of recruitment events during this time frame.

Let us be clear: The health, safety and well-being of our students remain our top priority and we are taking these allegations very seriously. We encourage you to seek support from campus resources if you need help processing this news. Assistance outside of law enforcement is available at Counseling and Psychological Services, Student Assistance and Support Services,  Religious and Spiritual Life, Employee Assistance Program, University Health Service, Evanston Hospital or any medical provider of your preference.  In an emergency, please dial 911. 

Bruce A. Lewis
Chief of Police, Senior Associate Vice President
Department of Safety and Security

Mona E. Dugo
Assistant Vice President of Wellness
Dean of Students

Aggravated Assault

Evanston Campus - September 24, 2021

Today (Sept. 24) the University received separate reports in which individuals alleged they were drugged without consent while attending a gathering at 584 Lincoln St. in Evanston. 

The University is investigating the reports. If you any have information regarding these reports, please promptly contact the Northwestern University Police at 847-491-3456. In an emergency, please dial 911.

We encourage you to seek support from campus resources if you need help processing news of these reports. Assistance outside of law enforcement is available at Counseling and Psychological Services, Student Assistance and Support Services, Religious and Spiritual Life, Employee Assistance Program, University Health Service, Evanston Hospital or any medical provider of your preference.

For the most up-to-date security policies, crime prevention programs and crime statistics, please review the Northwestern University Annual Security Report .

Assault with Deadly Weapon

Chicago Campus - September 22, 2021

• Travel well-lighted, busy routes. Avoid walking or parking in shadowed areas. Have your keys in your hand as you approach your door and remember to be alert to what and who is around you.
• Be careful with cell phones, laptops, purses and wallets on and off campus. Avoid text messaging or talking on the phone if you do not absolutely need to. Keep bags secure and wallets in an inside pocket.
• If you are confronted, COOPERATE! Give the offender what they ask for — wallet, keys, jewelry, credit cards and electronics. Don’t make sudden moves or try to apprehend the offender yourself. Concentrate on remembering a description and call the police immediately.
• Remove valuables from your car or hide them out of view.
•  Know the locations of the blue light emergency callboxes throughout campus. These phones provide direct communications with the Northwestern University Police Department Dispatch Center and identify the location from which you are calling.
•  Report any threats to public safety immediately to the Northwestern Police Department at 847-491-3456 or dial 911.

Armed Robbery

Chicago Campus - June 15, 2021

• Travel well-lighted, busy routes. Avoid walking or parking in shadowed areas. Have your keys in your hand as you approach your door and remember to be alert to what and who is around you.
• Be careful with cell phones, laptops, purses and wallets on and off campus. Avoid text messaging or talking on the phone if you do not absolutely need to. Keep bags secure and wallets in an inside pocket.
• If you are confronted, COOPERATE! Give the offender what they ask for — wallet, keys, jewelry, credit cards and electronics. Your life is more valuable than replaceable possessions. Don’t make sudden moves or try to apprehend the offender yourself. Concentrate on remembering a description and call the police immediately.
• Know the locations of the blue light emergency call boxes throughout campus. These phones provide direct communications with the Northwestern University Police Department Dispatch Center and identify the location from which you are calling.
• Report any threats to public safety immediately to the Northwestern Police Department at 847-491-3456  or dial 911.

For the most up to date security policies, crime prevention programs and crime statistics, please review the Northwestern University Annual Security Report.

Armed Robberies

Chicago Campus - June 4, 2021

• Travel well-lighted, busy routes. Avoid walking or parking in shadowed areas. Have your keys in your hand as you approach your door and remember to be alert to what and who is around you.
• Be careful with cell phones, laptops, purses and wallets on and off campus. Avoid text messaging or talking on the phone if you do not absolutely need to. Keep bags secure and wallets in an inside pocket.
• If you are confronted, COOPERATE! Give the offender what they ask for — wallet, keys, jewelry, credit cards and electronics. Your life is more valuable than replaceable possessions. Don’t make sudden moves or try to apprehend the offender yourself. Concentrate on remembering a description and call the police immediately.
• Know the locations of the blue light emergency callboxes throughout campus. These phones provide direct communications with the Northwestern University Police Department Dispatch Center and identify the location from which you are calling.
• Report any threats to public safety immediately to the Northwestern Police Department at 847-491-3456 or dial 911.
  

For the most up to date security policies, crime prevention programs and crime statistics, please review the Northwestern University Annual Security Report.

Attempted Sexual Assault

Evanston Campus - May 18, 2021

The Northwestern University Police Department (NUPD) was informed by the Evanston Police Department (EPD) that an attempted sexual assault of a Northwestern student occurred at about 6:30 a.m. this morning in the area of Clark Street and Orrington Avenue. The student was pushed to the ground by an unknown individual, who approached the student from behind and attempted to pull the student’s pants down. The suspect left the area, proceeding east on Clark Street, then north on Chicago Avenue toward campus. A passerby intervened to help stop the attempted sexual assault.

Evanston Police and NUPD continue to search for the suspect. If you have information regarding this incident, please contact EPD at (847) 866-5000 or NUPD at (847) 491-3456. To file an anonymous report, call (866) 294-3545.

If you are the survivor of a sexual assault, we encourage you to seek help. Assistance outside of law enforcement is available at the Office of Equity, the Center for Awareness, Response and Education, Counseling and Psychological Services, Religious and Spiritual Life, Employee Assistance Program, Evanston Hospital or any medical provider of your preference.

For the most up-to-date security policies, crime prevention programs and crime statistics, please review the Northwestern University Annual Security Report.

We are grateful for the quick actions of the passerby to intervene and help stop the assault. We encourage all in our community to reach out to the resources listed above if you need support, and to continue to help each other.

Attempted Burglary

Evanston Campus - September 21, 2020

 At 9:17 p.m. on Monday, September 21, Northwestern University Police responded to a report of an attempted burglary at McManus Hall, 1725 Orrington Ave., on Northwestern University’s campus in Evanston.

• Remember, your room door is actually your front door. Keep it locked even when leaving only for a few minutes.
• Leave interior lights on. Burglars are more likely to break in if they think you are away from home.
• If you come home to find an unexplained open/broken window or door:

• Ensure valuables are not visible from the street, especially high-end electronics.
• Report any suspicious activity immediately to the Northwestern University Police Department at 847-491-3456 or dial 911.
• Know the locations of the blue light emergency callboxes throughout campus. These phones provide direct communications with the Northwestern University Police Department Dispatch Center and identify the location from which you are calling.
• If you are confronted, COOPERATE! Give the criminal what they ask for — wallet, keys, jewelry, credit cards and electronics. Your safety and well-being are more valuable than replaceable possessions. Don’t make sudden moves or try to apprehend the criminal yourself. Concentrate on remembering a description and call the police immediately.

For your most up to date security policies, crime prevention programs and crime statistics, please review the Northwestern University Annual Security Report.

Carjacking 

Chicago Campus - May 11, 2020

At 5:00 p.m. on Monday, May 11, Chicago and Northwestern University Police responded to a report of a carjacking in the 200 block of East Huron Street adjacent to Northwestern University’s downtown campus in Chicago.

There are no descriptions of the suspects.

The Chicago Police Department is leading the investigation and is reviewing security cameras in the area.

If you have information regarding this incident, please contact the Northwestern University Police at 847-491-3456 or the Chicago Police Department at 312-746-6000.

Crime prevention and awareness, as well as consistent reporting, may be the strongest defenses against becoming the victim of a robbery.

While becoming a victim of crime is never the fault of the victim, the following list of practices may help safeguard individuals from becoming victims of a robbery:

• Travel well-lighted, busy routes. Avoid walking or parking in shadowed areas. Have your keys in your hand as you approach your door, and remember to be alert to what and who is around you.
• Avoid text messaging or talking on the phone if you do not absolutely need to.
• Only carry the credit cards that you need. Avoid displaying and carrying large sums of money in public.
• Be careful with cell phones, purses or wallets. If you do not need to use the phone, keep it secured and out of sight. Carry a purse close to your body, but do not loop or wrap straps around you. A purse snatcher could injure you. Keep wallets in an inside pocket.
• Report any suspicious activity or person(s) immediately to the Northwestern University Police Department at 847-491-3456 or dial 911
• Know the locations of the blue light emergency callboxes throughout campus. These phones provide direct communications with the Northwestern University Police Department Dispatch Center and identify the location from which you are calling.
• If you are confronted, COOPERATE! Give the criminal what they ask for — wallet, keys, jewelry, credit cards and electronics. Your life is more valuable than replaceable possessions. Don’t make sudden moves or try to apprehend the criminal yourself. Concentrate on remembering a description and call the police immediately.

For your most up to date security policies, crime prevention programs and crime statistics, please review the Northwestern University Annual Security Report.

The Northwestern University Police Department was informed today by the Evanston Police Department (EPD) of a suspect attempting to coerce, on separate occasions, two Northwestern students via a dating app.

Investigators from EPD advise that the suspect attempted to use Tinder to establish a false identity to meet the students and possibly commit sexual assault. The two students declined his attempts to meet. Investigators say the suspect then contacted and harassed the students through electronic communications.

The individual is suspected in other recent acts of sexual violence in the area, unrelated to Northwestern students, as well as in college communities in neighboring states. 

If you have information regarding this incident, please contact the Evanston Police Department, at 847-866-5000, Northwestern University Police Department at 847-491-3456, or to report anonymously, call-866-294-3545.

Perpetrators are solely responsible for sexual assaults and may take advantage of vulnerability in seeking opportunities to commit sexual assaults. We encourage members of the Northwestern community to exercise caution if using Tinder or similar applications to meet other individuals.

If you are the survivor of a sexual assault, we encourage you to seek help. Assistance outside of law enforcement is available at the Office of Equity, the Center for Awareness, Response and Education, Counseling and Psychological Services, Religious and Spiritual Life, Employee Assistance Program, Evanston Hospital or any medical provider of your preference.

For the most up-to-date security policies, crime prevention programs and crime statistics, please review the Northwestern University Annual Security Report

Sexual Assault on the Evanston Campus

Evanston, 6-29-2019

On June 29 at approximately 10:37 p.m., the Northwestern University and Evanston Police Departments responded to a report of a sexual assault that occurred in the 800 block of Simpson Street.

The survivor reported that, at approximately 7:30 p.m., a male subject knocked on their door and requested their signature for a charity petition. The survivor opened the door and stepped outside of their residence, where the suspect then asked a series of personal questions and proceeded to touch the survivor. As the suspect was leaving, he hugged and fondled the survivor.

If you have information regarding this incident, please contact the Northwestern University Police Department at 847-491-3456 or the Evanston Police Department at 847-866-5000. To report anonymously, call-866-294-3545.

Perpetrators are solely responsible for sexual assaults. Perpetrators take advantage of vulnerability and seek opportunities to commit sexual assaults. 

If you are the survivor of a sexual assault, we encourage you to seek help.  Assistance outside of law enforcement is available at the Office of Equity, the Center for Awareness, Response and Education, Counseling and Psychological Services, Religious and Spiritual Life, Employee Assistance Program, Evanston Hospital or any medical provider of your preference.

For the most up-to-date security policies, crime prevention programs and crime statistics, please review the Northwestern University Annual Security Report.

Shooting on the Chicago campus

Chicago, 6-01-2019

On June 1st, 2019, at approximately 2:05 a.m., the Northwestern University and Chicago Police Departments responded to a shooting in the 300 block of Chicago Avenue, adjacent to Levy Mayer Hall on the Chicago campus. One person was wounded.

Upon their arrival, police from both departments learned that a group of individuals, none affiliated with Northwestern, were gathered on the sidewalk by a parked vehicle, when a silver vehicle pulled alongside the group on Chicago Avenue. Witnesses said a suspect inside the silver vehicle displayed a firearm and shot into the crowd. The silver vehicle fled the scene driving eastbound towards Lake Shore Drive and away from campus.

One victim was struck with gunfire and has been transported to Northwestern Memorial Hospital. The severity of the person’s injuries was not immediately known. 

The Northwestern University Police Department is reviewing video footage in the vicinity.  

The Chicago Police Department is the lead investigating agency.

If you have information regarding this incident, please contact the Northwestern University Police at 847-491-3456.

Crime prevention and awareness, as well as consistent reporting, may be the strongest defenses against becoming a victim.

While becoming a victim of crime is never the fault of the victim, the following list of practices may help safeguard members of our community:

• Travel well-lighted, busy routes. Avoid walking or parking in shadowed areas. Have your keys in your hand as you approach your door and remember to be alert to what and who is around you.
• Avoid text messaging or talking on the phone if you do not absolutely need to.
• Only carry the credit cards that you need.  Avoid displaying and carrying large sums of money in public.
• Be careful with cell phones, purses, or wallets. If you do not need to use the phone, keep it secured and out of sight. Carry a purse close to your body, but do not loop or wrap straps around you. A purse snatcher could injure you. Keep wallets in an inside pocket.
• Know the locations of the blue light emergency callboxes throughout campus. These phones provide direct communications with the Northwestern University Police Department Dispatch Center and identify the location from which you are calling.

• If you are confronted in a robbery, COOPERATE! Give the criminal what he/she asks for — wallet, keys, jewelry, credit cards and electronics. Your life is more valuable than replaceable possessions. Don’t make sudden moves or try to apprehend the criminal yourself. Concentrate on remembering a description and call the police immediately.
• If You See Something, Say Something.  If you are aware of someone displaying concerning behavior, you may report via Wildcats Aware, https://cm.maxient.com/reportingform.php?NorthwesternUniv&layout_id=124, as the Behavioral Consultation Team are trained to evaluate potential threats.
• Report any suspicious activity or person(s) immediately to the Northwestern University Police Department at 847-491-3456 or dial 911

For your most up to date security policies, crime prevention programs and crime statistics, please review the Northwestern University Annual Security Report.

Strong-Arm Robbery

Chicago, 4-21-2019

On April 21, 2019, at approximately 9:02 a.m., the Chicago and Northwestern University Police Departments responded to a report of a robbery in the 300 Block of East Erie Street on Northwestern University’s Chicago Campus.  

The victim was walking along the south sidewalk when a passenger in a car waiting nearby—described as a silver, four-door Chevrolet, possibly an Impala--exited and approached the victim. 

The suspect grabbed the victim by the arm and removed the cellphone from their grasp. The suspect returned to the silver Chevrolet, waiting nearby, and the vehicle fled the area eastbound on Erie Street.  No weapon was displayed.  Witnesses described the suspect is an African American male, approximately 20 years old, 5 feet 8 inches in height, 115 pounds and wearing a black hooded jacket, dark jeans and Nike shoes with red soles.

The victim was not injured and denied medical attention.  Responding officers have checked the area, and neither the suspect nor the vehicle has been located.  The Chicago Police Department is leading the investigation and reviewing area cameras.

If you have information regarding this incident, please contact the Northwestern University Police at 847-491-3456.

Crime prevention and awareness, as well as consistent reporting, may be the strongest defenses against becoming the victim of a robbery.

While becoming a victim of crime is never the fault of the victim, the following list of practices may help safeguard individuals from becoming victims of robbery:

• Travel well-lighted, busy routes. Avoid walking or parking in shadowed areas. Have your keys in your hand as you approach your door and remember to be alert to what and who is around you.
• Avoid text messaging or talking on the phone if you do not absolutely need to.
• Only carry the credit cards that you need. Avoid displaying and carrying large sums of money in public.
• Be careful with cell phones, purses or wallets. If you do not need to use the phone, keep it secured and out of sight. Carry a purse close to your body, but do not loop or wrap straps around you. A purse snatcher could injure you. Keep wallets in an inside pocket.
• Report any suspicious activity or person(s) immediately to the Northwestern University Police Department at 847-491-3456 or dial 911
• Know the locations of the blue light emergency callboxes throughout campus. These phones provide direct communications with the Northwestern University Police Department Dispatch Center and identify the location from which you are calling.

• If you are confronted, COOPERATE! Give the criminal what he/she asks for — wallet, keys, jewelry, credit cards and electronics. Your life is more valuable than replaceable possessions. Don’t make sudden moves or try to apprehend the criminal yourself. Concentrate on remembering a description and call the police immediately.

For your most up to date security policies, crime prevention programs and crime statistics, please review the Northwestern University Annual Security Report. 

Strong-Arm Robbery

Chicago, 3-12-2019

A Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law student was the victim of a strong-arm robbery early Tuesday, March 12, near East Chicago Avenue and North Fairbanks Court. The Northwestern University and Chicago Police Departments responded at 4:04 a.m. to a report of the incident that occurred on the pathway in Lake Shore Park, adjacent to the Law School, on Northwestern’s Chicago campus.

The Law School student was walking southbound on the pathway towards campus, wearing headphones and watching a movie on his iPad, when a silver sedan pulled up along East Chicago Avenue nearby. The student said that two African American males exited the car, struck him in the face and took his iPad. The suspects then continued to check the victim for more possessions. The student resisted his attackers and yelled for help. 

The suspects fled to the awaiting vehicle, which left heading westbound on East Chicago Avenue.  The victim activated a blue light phone to summon the Northwestern University Police Department. He described one of the suspects as being 5 feet, 10 inches tall and wearing a gray sweatshirt. There was no description given for the second suspect. The victim declined medical attention.

The Northwestern University Police Department is reviewing video footage in the vicinity.  

The Chicago Police Department is the lead investigating agency.

If you have information regarding this incident, please contact the Northwestern University Police at 847-491-3456.

Crime prevention and awareness, as well as consistent reporting, may be the strongest defenses against becoming the victim of a robbery.

While becoming a victim of crime is never the fault of the victim, the following list of practices may help safeguard individuals from becoming victims of robbery:

• Travel well-lighted, busy routes. Avoid walking or parking in shadowed areas. Have your keys in your hand as you approach your door and remember to be alert to what and who is around you.
• Avoid text messaging or talking on the phone if you do not absolutely need to.
• Only carry the credit cards that you need.  Avoid displaying and carrying large sums of money in public.
• Be careful with cell phones, purses or wallets. If you do not need to use the phone, keep it secured and out of sight. Carry a purse close to your body, but do not loop or wrap straps around you. A purse snatcher could injure you. Keep wallets in an inside pocket.
• Report any suspicious activity or person(s) immediately to the Northwestern University Police Department at 847-491-3456 or dial 911
• Know the locations of the blue light emergency callboxes throughout campus. These phones provide direct communications with the Northwestern University Police Department Dispatch Center and identify the location from which you are calling.

• If you are confronted, COOPERATE! Give the criminal what he/she asks for — wallet, keys, jewelry, credit cards and electronics. Your life is more valuable than replaceable possessions. Don’t make sudden moves or try to apprehend the criminal yourself. Concentrate on remembering a description and call the police immediately.

For your most up to date security policies, crime prevention programs and crime statistics, please review the Northwestern University Annual Security Report.

Strong-Arm Robbery

Chicago, 3-12-2019

The Northwestern University and Chicago Police Departments responded Tuesday morning, March 12, at 12:11 a.m., to a report of a strong-arm robbery at the intersection of North St. Clair street and East Superior street on Northwestern’s Chicago campus.

The victim, who is not affiliated with Northwestern, was at the intersection when she was pushed from behind and knocked to the ground by a man she described later as a black male. When she fell to the ground, she said a second man grabbed her purse, containing a wallet and cellphone. The victim attempted to hold on to her purse, and a struggle ensued.  

The suspect was able to gain control of the purse, and both suspects fled into an awaiting small black sports utility vehicle. The Northwestern University Police Department is reviewing footage of cameras in the area. The suspects are described as African-American men, both about 5-feet, 6 inches to 5-feet, 8 inches in height, and about 18-22 years of age.  The victim described the suspect who grabbed her purse as wearing a black jacket and a knit hat. No weapon was displayed by either suspect. The victim is stunned, but otherwise is uninjured. 

If you have information regarding this incident, please contact the Northwestern University Police at 847-491-3456.

Crime prevention and awareness, as well as consistent reporting, may be the strongest defenses against becoming the victim of a robbery.

While becoming a victim of crime is never the fault of the victim, the following list of practices may help safeguard individuals from becoming victims of robbery:

• Travel well-lighted, busy routes. Avoid walking or parking in shadowed areas. Have your keys in your hand as you approach your door and remember to be alert to what and who is around you.
• Avoid text messaging or talking on the phone if you do not absolutely need to.
• Only carry the credit cards that you need.  Avoid displaying and carrying large sums of money in public.
• Be careful with cell phones, purses, or wallets. If you do not need to use the phone, keep it secured and out of sight. Carry a purse close to your body, but do not loop or wrap straps around you. A purse snatcher could injure you. Keep wallets in an inside pocket.
• Report any suspicious activity or person(s) immediately to the Northwestern University Police Department at 847-491-3456 or dial 911
• Know the locations of the blue light emergency callboxes throughout campus. These phones provide direct communications with the Northwestern University Police Department Dispatch Center and identify the location from which you are calling.

• If you are confronted, COOPERATE! Give the criminal what he/she asks for — wallet, keys, jewelry, credit cards and electronics. Your life is more valuable than replaceable possessions. Don’t make sudden moves or try to apprehend the criminal yourself. Concentrate on remembering a description and call the police immediately.

For your most up to date security policies, crime prevention programs and crime statistics, please visit the Northwestern University Annual Security Report.

Attempted Carjacking

Chicago, 12-14-2018

At approximately 7:05 p.m., the Northwestern University and Chicago Police Departments responded to a report of an attempted carjacking in the 300 Block of East Erie Street in downtown Chicago, on Northwestern’s Chicago campus. Officers on scene spoke with the victim, a Northwestern employee, who advised that she was driving and parked alongside of the road to attend to her child in the backseat.  

She removed her keys from the ignition, exited the vehicle and attended to her child, who was seated in the back-passenger side seat. She then noticed a heavy-set black male, wearing dark clothing, get into the front driver’s seat, attempting to drive off in her vehicle. 

The victim, who has a valid concealed carry permit, approached the driver’s side door, drew her firearm and attempted to hold the suspect at the scene. The suspect exited the vehicle and fled east on Erie Street. There were no reported injuries, and the child was unharmed.

This incident is being investigated by the Chicago Police Department.

Crime prevention and awareness, as well as consistent reporting, can be the strongest defenses against becoming the victim of a carjacking robbery.

While becoming a victim of crime is never the fault of the victim, the following list of practices can help safeguard you from becoming the victim of a crime:

• Travel well-lighted, busy routes. Avoid walking or parking in shadowed areas. Have your keys in your hand as you approach your door and remember to be alert to what and who is around you.
• Avoid text messaging or talking on the phone if you do not absolutely need to use the phone.
• Avoid displaying and carrying large sums of money in public. Only carry the credit cards you need.
• Be careful with cell phones, purses, or wallets. If you do not need to use the phone, keep it secured and out of sight. Carry a purse close to your body, but do not loop or wrap straps around you. A purse snatcher could injure you. Keep wallets in an inside pocket.
• Concentrate on remembering the description of the suspect and call police immediately.
• Report any suspicious activity or person immediately to the Northwestern Police Department at 847-491-3456 or dial 9-1-1
• Know the locations of blue light emergency telephones throughout campus. These phones provide direct communications with the Northwestern Police Department Dispatch Center and identify the location from which you are calling.

Strong-Arm Robbery

Evanston, 12-13-2018

At approximately 4:25 p.m. today, the Northwestern and Evanston Police Departments responded to an incident in the 1000 block of Garnett Place regarding a strong-arm robbery. The victim, a female student, was walking on Garnett Place when a dark colored Hyundai pulled up to the victim, and a black male -- described as being 6 feet tall and in his mid-20s and wearing a navy blue hooded sweatshirt and ripped jeans -- exited the passenger side of the vehicle and took the victim’s cell phone out of her hand. The suspect re-entered the vehicle, and the vehicle left in an unknown direction. No weapon was displayed in the incident.

This incident is being investigated by both the Northwestern and Evanston Police Departments. The police and security presence on campus continues to be heightened following the previously reported incidents this fall. 

Please report all crime and suspicious activity promptly by calling 911 or using one of the over 100 blue light phones on campus. Download the NUHelp app for resources and to access Safe Ride Services.

Being a victim of a crime is not the fault of the victim. Below are tips to enhance the safety of our community.

•  Travel in groups when possible and always take the safest route, even if it is a little longer.
• Use well-lit and busy sidewalks and avoid deserted sidewalks, vacant lots, and alleys.

• Remain alert and be aware of your surroundings while crossing streets and taking public transportation, and keep electronics stored out of sight.

• Avoid wearing stereo earplugs or headphones that prevent you from hearing what is going on around you.

• If you have a purse or bag, hold it close to your body and carry only necessary money, credit cards, and electronics.

Battery

Evanston, 11-13-2018

Today the Northwestern University Police Department received reports of two incidents on or near the Evanston campus.

In the first incident, at 4:54 p.m. in the 1900 block of Sheridan Road, two females reported they were approached by two white males who made a rude comment to them. The females described one of the males as wearing a gray jacket, the other as wearing a red jacket. The women said both suspects spoke with distinctive European accents. When the two females did not respond to the rude comment, the two males made a disparaging comment and walked away, heading northbound. The suspects did not make physical contact with the women. This incident was reported to the Northwestern University Police Department at 6:50 p.m., and Is currently being investigated by NUPD.

The second incident occurred at 5:10 p.m. near 1700 Chicago Avenue, where a female was walking southbound, when two males made a comment to her and then grabbed her arm. The woman ran south on Chicago Avenue and the two males proceeded north. The men were both described as white and in their mid-20s to early 30s. This off-campus incident was reported to the Evanston Police Department at 9:08 p.m., and is being investigated by EPD.

Area video camera footage is being reviewed to gather pertinent information for both investigations.

NUPD urges the community to report all suspicious activity in a timely manner. Proactive, visible patrols have been increased on and around campus recently, in addition to assistance from EPD. While becoming a victim of crime is never the fault of the victim, the following list of practices may help you stay safe:

• Be aware of the location of blue light emergency telephones. They are a direct line to assistance.
• Use Safe Ride and Safe Walk.
• Always be aware of your surroundings. If you are wearing headphones, don’t turn up the volume so high that you cannot hear outside noises.
• Download the NUHelp App for available resources.

Battery

Evanston, 11-08-2018

NUPD received multiple calls at 7:52 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018 from third parties regarding a possible battery on campus.  Callers provided the identity of a victim, but did not have a specific information, including the location of the incident or description of suspects.   

With the information provided, NUPD was able to locate the victim at 8:30 p.m. 

The victim advised that today at approximately 5:30 p.m., she was walking north in the 1800 block of Hinman Avenue, on the west side sidewalk, when two males, each approximately 6 feet tall, unknown race or ethnicity, one wearing a hoodie sweatshirt, walked up behind her.  She felt that one of the individuals grabbed the top carrying handle of her backpack, and she ran north.  The suspects fled in a direction away from campus

NUPD and Evanston Police Department have patrolled the area and are unable to locate any individuals fitting this description. Patrols of both departments will continue indefinitely.  

Please report all suspicious activity to NUPD by calling 847-491-3456.  Download the NUHelp app for resources, including the availability of Safe Ride services. You can contact the Dean on Call or report all suspicious activity by dialing 911 or using one of the Blue Light emergency telephones throughout campus.  

The Northwestern University Police Department advises all community members to be alert when traveling on or off campus, especially at night.

Burglaries

Evanston, 10-13-2018

Over the past week, there has been a series of burglaries on the Evanston campus. Please be aware and use extra caution. The reported burglaries include:

• A burglary at Willard Hall on Oct. 6 between midnight and 2:30 a.m., in which a wallet, an iPhone and a laptop was stolen from two victims.
• A burglary at Willard Hall on Oct. 7 between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m., in which a laptop, a wallet and headphones were stolen from one victim.
• A burglary at Alpha Epsilon Phi, 584 Lincoln St., sometime between 11 p.m. on Oct. 12 and 12:30 a.m. Oct. 13, in which multiple laptops, wallets and backpacks were stolen from six victims.

Northwestern Police has increased patrols and staffing in response to these incidents.

All residence halls are staffed with community service officers, who are there to help residents and enhance security, and additional staff are on call.

NUPD is investigating the burglaries, and does not believe the suspect or suspects are associated with Northwestern.

Many crimes are crimes of opportunity. To help prevent burglaries:

• Report all suspicious activity by dialing 911 or using a Blue Light emergency telephone
• Contact the Northwestern University Police Department by calling 847-491-3456 if you have any information that may assist in this investigation
• Ensure rooms are locked
• Do not leave personal belongings and valuables unattended

Fraud/Theft

Evanston, 2-28-2018

Northwestern Police are investigating a phone scam operation that is impacting our campus community. The fictitious callers represent themselves as Internal Revenue Service (IRS) agents or police officers attempting to collect an outstanding debt. The scammers ask for payment with gift cards or iTunes cards valued in the thousands of dollars.

The scammers also ask for personal identifying information, including passport numbers and Social Security or tax identification numbers. The fictitious calls appear in the caller identification (Caller ID) display as belonging to Northwestern or a police department. This academic year, we are aware of three Northwestern community members who have been victimized by this scam and have lost thousands of dollars.

Northwestern Police are encouraging the campus community to take into consideration the following safety information and steps to minimize or eliminate the opportunity for them to fall prey to this crime:

• The IRS will NOT call you without sending correspondence first.
• The IRS will NOT demand payment via iTunes cards, any pre-paid debit cards or gift cards, Western Union, MoneyGram or bank deposits
• The IRS will NOT share tax information with local law enforcement agencies, including Northwestern Police
• The IRS will NOT threaten to arrest you over the phone for unpaid taxes.
• If you receive a call with any of the information above, hang up and contact the Northwestern Police by calling 847-491-3456 or call a local law enforcement agency.
• You can contact your local IRS office for assistance in determining if you owe money to the IRS. To locate your local office use this link: https://apps.irs.gov/app/officeLocator/index.jsp.
• Use the following link to make a report of an IRS impersonation scam: https://www.treasury.gov/tigta/contact_report_scam.shtml

Robbery

Chicago, 1-29-2018

At approximately 9:30 p.m. Monday, January 29, 2018, a woman not affiliated with Northwestern University was the victim of a robbery in the area near the Chicago campus.

The woman was walking near the northeast corner of McClurg court and Erie Street when she was approached from behind by two men who grabbed her shoulder bag, causing her to fall to the ground. The bag contained her computer, cell phone and personal identification. The suspects then got into a silver, four-door car with a temporary license plate.

No weapon was displayed in the incident. The victim suffered minor injuries but declined further medical treatment.

The men were described as wearing dark clothing, 5 feet 8 inches to 5 feet 9 inches tall and possibly in their 20s. A more complete description could not be obtained.

The Northwestern University Police Department advises all community members to be alert when traveling on or off campus, especially at night.

Report suspicious activity immediately to University Police or Chicago Police by dialing 911 or by using a Blue Light emergency telephone. Contact the University Police Department at 847-491-3456 if you have any information that may assist in this investigation.

Attempted Armed Robbery

Evanston, 1-22-2018

A business in downtown Evanston was the site of an attempted armed robbery on the afternoon of Monday, January 22, 2018.

At approximately 4:30 p.m. a man entered a store at 1630 Orrington Ave., Evanston, and showed a gun in his waistband and demanded money, but did not get any, according to Evanston Police.

The offender, who fled on foot, was described as a very thin male in his 50s wearing a dark jacket, blue shirt and dark baggy jeans.

Report suspicious activity immediately to University Police or Evanston Police by dialing 911 or by using a Blue Light emergency telephone. Contact the Evanston Police Department at 847-866-5000 if you have any information that may assist in this investigation.

The Northwestern University Police Department advises all community members to be alert when traveling on or off campus, especially at night. In Evanston, the Northwestern shuttle bus service provides transportation to areas both on and off campus every night until 3 a.m. In addition, SafeRide provides free rides at night.