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 2/12/2022 at approximately 9:45 p.m., an armed robbery was reported to police for a crime that occurred during an internet purchase exchange in the parking lot of the CVS located at 2160 North High Street. Reports indicate that the victim, an Ohio State student, agreed to meet the suspect to sell them a pair of shoes. As the suspect was trying on the shoes, a second suspect approached and pointed a handgun at the victim, demanding money. The victim did not have money, so the second suspect took the shoes from the first suspect and fled the scene. Moments later, the first suspect fled the scene in the same direction as the second suspect. Reports indicate that both suspects entered the same vehicle and left the area. No injuries were reported.
Suspect details are limited. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to call the Columbus Division of Police at 614-645-4545.
Crimes are never the fault of a victim. The Columbus Division of Police and The Ohio State University Police Division would like to share additional safety tips for internet purchase exchanges, including:
- Meet in a well-lit public place with known security where other people can see you.
- Go with a friend or family member.
- Plan and confirm all exchange details in advance.
- Know the description of the buyer or seller as well as a description of their vehicle in advance.
- Check reviews about the buyer or seller prior to making a transaction.
- Do not share personal information.
- Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
These safety tips are also available on the Department of Public Safety website.
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. Wellness resources are also available. Students in need of assistance are encouraged to use:
- Counseling and Consultation Service (CCS)
- Student Wellness Center
- Buckeye Peer Access Line
- Stress, Trauma and Resilience (STAR) at Ohio State
Students can access a variety of other resources according to interest and need. CCS also provides guidance for ways faculty and staff can support students . Faculty and staff are encouraged to use the Employee Assistance Program or Your Plan For Health .
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.