Public Safety Message from Chief Ronnell Higgins

January 5, 2015

To the Yale Community:

As we begin a new semester, I write to remind you of some steps you can take to help prevent crime and to support the efforts of the police. The city of New Haven reported reductions in all crime categories in 2014. Read details in the New Haven Independent. Crime on campus also declined in 2014, continuing a 20-year trend.

You might be surprised to learn that most crimes on our campus involve theft of portable electronic devices and bicycles—and many of these items were left unattended or unlocked. The Yale police are highly vigilant, as are Yale security officers, but it is important that you also take precautions. Here are some suggestions:

  • Don’t run, bike or walk alone—particularly after dark or in isolated areas. Robberies typically occur in isolated or poorly-lit areas, including streets, bike paths and parks.
  • Choose well-lit, well-populated areas for your travel routes.
  • Don’t display cash or cell phones on the street.
  • Don’t walk with ear buds in, and don’t text while you walk.
  • Lock your bike with a U-lock.
  • Don’t leave electronic devices unattended, even “for a minute.”
  • Take the shuttle or call for a security escort if you need to get around campus and feel unsafe for any reason.
  • Note the location of emergency blue phones along your route.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, and trust your instincts. If you feel you are in a potentially dangerous situation of any kind, call the Yale Police at 203-432-4400 (and put this number in your contact list). In an emergency, dial 911 or use the blue phones.

For a full list of our safety services, including locations of Yale’s emergency blue phones, nighttime safe rides, and shuttle services, visit the Public Safety section of this website.

Have a wonderful semester, and thanks for helping us keep campus safe.
Sincerely,

Ronnell A. Higgins
Chief, Yale University Police