We are sharing the below information on behalf of the Columbus Division of Police regarding crimes that occurred in the off-campus area.
On 4/23/2021, two crimes similar in nature occurred in the off-campus area. At approximately noon, Columbus Police responded to the 2100 block of Iuka Avenue on a report of strong-arm robbery. The victim, an Ohio State student, told police that he was approached by two unknown males who tackled him and stole his cell phone before fleeing. About 30 minutes later, at 12:34 p.m., officers responded just south of this location to the 200 block of E 15th Avenue. A second victim, also an Ohio State student, reported that three unknown males approached him on bicycles and demanded his belongings. They stole his earbuds and fled westbound through the alley. No injuries were reported, and no weapons were shown in either crime.
Suspect details are limited. Anyone with information related to these crimes 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. Additional safety resources are available at: https://dps.osu.edu/resources
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.