U emphasizes police, student communication in safety plan after rash of robberies

Following three armed robberies in two days near the University of Minnesota campus to kick off spring semester, Vice President Pamela Wheelock announced they’ll be using a new “Neighborhood Safety Notice” communications system to keep students in-the-know. In the pursuit of safety through information, Wheelock emphasized social media as a vehicle of communication between students and police.

More: 3 armed robberies in 2 days near Univ. of Minn.

The first “Neighborhood Safety Notice” was sent last week which included information from the Minneapolis Police Department Facebook Page. From now on, when a crime occurs in the neighborhoods around campus, or when MPD or another university law enforcement partner asks for help in getting the word out, students will receive a Neighborhood Safety Notice with information.

More information + safety tips: Safe U

“While theft of laptops and other personal items continues to be an issue, the incident rate for serious crime is among the lowest in the City of Minneapolis. That's due in no small part to the collective efforts of University community members who are educated and aware, and who take responsibility for their safety and the safety of others. The good work of the University of Minnesota Police Department and Student Monitors, and investments in improved lighting, camera coverage, and building security are also essential to campus safety,” Wheelock said in a news release.

The university also encourages everyone to sign up for MPD Crime Alerts for the Second Precinct. They will always issue a “Timely Warning” when a violent crime happens on-campus, at a university-owned facility that is not adjacent to campus or as required by the Clery Act. The university also offers text messages containing this information.