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Police search for robbers
The Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Ann Arbor Police (AAPD) are investigating several reported robberies committed by a group of young men in recent weeks.
The incidents primarily have occurred in residential areas south of Hill Street and east of South State Street. One occurred in the 1100 block of Willard and one in the 400 block of North State Street. All occurred between 11 p.m.-4:30 a.m.
The victims have reported being punched and knocked down with no weapon being displayed except for one incident in which a handgun was brandished. In the July 22 Willard Street incident, two campus visitors reported they were walking just after midnight to their parked car in lot S12, near the Towsley Center for Children, when they were attacked by six or seven young men. One victim reported he was punched in the face and kicked and his wallet was taken. The other victim said he was punched in the face and his wallet and cell phone were taken. Neither victim sought treatment for their injuries.
Police report the perpetrators, numbering from two to eight, are described by several witnesses as black males about 20-25 years of age. In one case, only one assailant was seen; however in most incidents two to six appeared to be involved.
Police urge anyone with information about these or other similar incidents to call authorities immediately. Safety tips to consider include never walking alone at night, walk in well-lit areas and be aware of the surroundings.
Unattended belongings stolen in three incidents
Three burglary reports were filed with DPS involving unattended property. Two campers reported July 9 that they had left their Markley residence hall room unattended for two hours the night before and discovered upon their return that a DVD player and games were missing. There were no signs of forced entry. Another Markley resident reported July 21 that an MCard had been stolen.
A resident of Stone Drive reported July 22 that a laptop computer was taken that morning. Entry appeared to have been through an unlocked sliding patio door.
DPS innvestigation to determine assault or accident
DPS officers are investigating a patient injury at University Hospital that was reported July 29 to determine whether the patient was assaulted or an accident occurred.
Couch fire doused by DPS officer
A DPS officer on routine patrol July 3 observed a couch on fire in the middle of the Elbel Field baseball diamond. The officer put out the flames with a fire extinguisher. No other damage was reported. Ownership of the couch was not immediately known.
Caregiver drives off with patient’s van
After dropping off a passenger for treatment at University Hospital July 12, a caregiver left with the patient’s van without permission. The Ypsilanti Police Department recovered the vehicle Aug. 2. DPS continues to investigate the incident.
Local drunk driving enforcement scheduled
Law enforcement agencies throughout Washtenaw County will be participating in an enforcement campaign Aug. 19-Sept. 5 targeting drunk drivers. The “You Drink and Drive, You Lose” campaign will provide additional police officers on local streets. DPS officers specifically will participate Aug. 26-27. In the state of Michigan, drivers can be arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI) if their blood alcohol level is above 0.08. Drunk driving penalties include a $500 fine and/or 93 days in jail, plus court costs and driver’s license sanctions on a first offense.
