We are sharing the below information on behalf of the Columbus Division of Police for a crime that occurred in the off-campus area.
On 1/14/2021, at approximately 10 p.m., Columbus Police responded to an off-campus robbery report. An Ohio State female student was with a group of friends at N. 4th Street and E. 14th Avenue when three unknown juveniles approached and asked for money. When the student reached into her purse to offer them money, one suspect pepper sprayed her and then struck her in the face. The suspects attempted to steal the student’s purse, but were unsuccessful, before fleeing the area in a nearby vehicle.
Suspect details are limited but all three are believed to be teenagers, and at least two are believed to be female. Anyone with information related to this crime is encouraged to call the Columbus Division of Police at 614-645-4545.
Crimes are never the fault of the victim. The Ohio State University Police Division encourages everyone to lock doors and windows. When possible, please walk with friends or coworkers and always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. If you see something, say something: report suspicious behavior by calling police.
The Ohio State University Police Division carefully considers information contained in safety notices. All decisions are handled on a case-by-case basis with the safety of our campus community in mind. Law enforcement officers and dispatchers are trained to interview witnesses in an effort to obtain as much information as possible, such as build, hair style, hair color, facial hair, skin tone, eye color, tattoos or identifying marks, teeth, clothing, shoes, etc. OSUPD may limit the use of race, or other descriptors, unless accompanied by a detailed description of the suspect. In an effort to share information in a timely manner, details may be limited and are based on information known or reported at the time of issuance.