University Police recently released the following crime alerts. Readers with information that could assist in investigating these incidents are urged to call 935-5555. This information is provided as a public service to promote safety awareness and is available on the University Police Web site at police.wustl.edu.
On September 22, a resident of an apartment building in the 6600 block of Washington Avenue in University City reported a subject knocked at the door and claimed to be from Charter cable. The resident did not have Charter service and directed the subject to leave. The subject then left the area.
When someone knocks at your door, don’t open it unless you know your visitor. If the person is a maintenance person, representative or product salesman, etc., ask that identification and credentials be slipped under the door or through a mail slot. Call the employer to verify the name and business, or that maintenance work was scheduled to be performed. Refuse to deal with anyone who won’t comply with this request. Someone may knock at your door to use the telephone. Never open the door. Take the message and make the call for them.If you see a suspicious person, notify the police by calling 911.
Also, on Sept. 16, a subject entered the basement of an apartment building on the 6600 block of Washington Avenue through an open basement door. The subject attempted to steal a bike that was secured inside a storage area but was unsuccessful. The subject left the area prior to the arrival of law enforcement officers. The subject is described as an African-American male, early 30s, medium complexion, graying facial hair; dressed in a dark shirt, khaki pants, wearing a hat with a star embroidered on front and carrying a black duffle bag.