Students targeted in flashing, attempted robbery incidents
Another Brandeis student was the victim of indecent exposure on South Street last Tuesday, marking the sixth such incident since November 2015. This incident came a few days after another student was the victim of an attempted robbery and assault, which also occurred on South Street.
In a Feb. 24 email to the Brandeis community, Department of Public Safety Director Ed Callahan wrote that the indecent exposure incident occurred as the student was walking away from campus, toward Highland Street. Callahan also wrote that the Waltham Police Department’s police report lists the suspect as approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall with a stocky build, wearing dark pants and a white hoodie.
He added that the Waltham PD is currently investigating the incident and the University is working with them to increase security measures in the area. He also cautioned, “As always, please be mindful of your surroundings, walk without distracting headphones or ear buds, and please report any suspicious incident or activity to the Brandeis Police,” and reminded students that escort services are available through the Department of Public Safety.
This recent episode of indecent exposure came shortly after the Feb. 19 attempted robbery and assault. In an email to the Brandeis community on Feb. 20, Callahan wrote that the suspect grabbed a student from behind and fled the scene when the student shouted. However, the police report’s description of the attempted robbery suspect as wearing a black ski mask differs from the previous descriptions of the indecent exposure suspects. “Students and staff are encouraged to travel in groups when possible and to always be aware of your surroundings,” Callahan ended his email.
Callahan did not return requests for comment at press time.
—Abby Patkin
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