Timely Warning Notification of a Criminal Incident
06/30/09
Bank Robbery - Seattle
This message to members of the University community is being sent in the interest of public safety and in compliance with federal law requiring timely warning notification of crimes committed on or near campus. This is not a UW Alert message. For more information regarding UW Alert, visit www.uwalert.org
Over the past couple of weeks we have seen an increase in the number of completed and attempted bank robberies in the Seattle area and within close proximity to the University of Washington campus. The closest occurred June 30 at the Bank of America branch in the 4700 block of University Way. These cases are under investigation by the FBI and detailed information is not available at this time.
Below is a list of crime tips that will assist you in decreasing the chance of becoming a victim in a bank robbery
Simple Survival Steps
To make the best of a bad situation, think along the following lines:
* My money is insured, the only thing at risk is my safety
* Let the guy have what he wants, the sooner he gets it the sooner he'll go away
* He's probably done this before and he'll do it again - the more often he does it the better are his chances of getting caught
Although it may be difficult to control your anger in such a situation,, the best thing is to let the robber go so that everybody is safe. Bank robbers are often desperate, and you don't want to mess with a desperate and scared person.
Every law enforcement official will tell you the same thing: the most heroic act you can take in a bank robbery is noticing any details about the robber. You should not try to stop the robbery by force. Keep in mind that an increasing number of bank robbers are using powerful drugs (cocaine and methamphetamine) during the time of the robbery. You don't want to take chances with an intoxicated person in a desperate situation.
If you notice that a bank robbery is in progress, simply get some details on the robber that you can pass on to the police. Try to observe:
* Clothing - look for layers under the visible layer (the outer layer will come off)
* Physical characteristics - height, weight, eyes, hair, mannerisms, scars/tattoos
* Automobile description (not the most important since it's probably stolen)
* Direction of travel
* Weapons - the police need to know if the robber is armed
Remember that the bank robber is trying to avoid getting caught, and he probably knows what you're looking for. Therefore, do not stare at a bank robber. In fact, it's best not to attract any attention to yourself. Simply follow instructions so that the robber can get out of there as soon as possible. Law enforcement will pursue the robber. Agitating a bank robber can result in harm to yourself and/or others.
ATM Safety
* Try to avoid using an ATM by yourself. Either take someone with you or use an ATM only when others are around.
* If possible, avoid using an ATM after dark. If you must, choose one that is well lit and does not have tall bushes nearby.
* When you arrive at an ATM, look around. If you see anything that makes you uncomfortable or anyone who looks suspicious, do not stop. Either use an ATM at a different location or come back later. Notify police.
* Have your access card and any other documents you need ready when you approach an ATM. While you are fumbling with a wallet or purse, you are easy prey for a thief.
* If someone else is using the ATM, stay alert to your surroundings. Look up and around every few seconds while transacting your business.
* Protect your Personal Identification Number (PIN). Do not enter your PIN if anyone else can see the screen or keypad. Use your body to shield your PIN from onlookers. Don't give your PIN out to others. This is the leading cause of theft.
* When your transaction is finished, be sure you have your card and your receipt, then leave immediately. Avoid counting or otherwise displaying large amounts of cash.
* As you leave, be aware of anything suspicious. If you think you are being followed, go to an area with a lot of people and call the police.
Contact the University of Washington Police Crime Prevention Unit at 206-543-9338 for additional crime prevention information.
