Contact:
Kim Billings
603-862-1558
UNH Media Relations

August 11, 2003

DURHAM, N.H. -- The UNH and Durham Police Departments are asking residents of the university and Durham communities to stay alert following seven burglaries that have occurred in the downtown Durham area since June 24.

According to the Durham Police Department, the suspect has focused exclusively upon apartment complexes on Main Street, Park Court and Dennison Road. Entrance has been gained through unsecured points (unlocked doors). The events have all occurred in the immediate downtown Durham area between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m.

Durham residents and UNH students should report any suspicious activity to UNH or Durham police. In addition:

• Lock doors and other entrances.
• If you live off campus, keep outside lights on all night.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Use the UNH Security Escort Service.
• If you see suspicious activity, call UNH or Durham Police.
• Use Blue Light phones, and safety phones, located in all UNH building entrances.
• Walk in groups.
• Stay on well-lit paths.
• Remember that when you dial 911, the call goes directly to the UNH Dispatch Center on the Durham campus.

UNH President Ann Weaver Hart said that UNH administrators and police are working in partnership with Durham police. “We are very concerned about the safety of our students and other women who may fall victim to this individual. The university has mandated that its residence halls be secured around the clock to further protect the security of our on-campus students.”

Durham police are aggressively pursuing all leads in its investigation. In addition, a special task force, comprised of local, county and state law enforcement agencies, has been formed in order to expedite the arrest of those responsible for the series of burglaries.

“We urge you to be cautious yet safe with the knowledge that your police department is working diligently to resolve these events,” said David L. Kurz, chief of the Durham Police Department.

CALL 911 or 868-2324
TO REPORT SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY OR PERSONS.

Durham residents and UNH faculty, staff and students are encouraged to download this Community Alert and place it prominently in buildings and businesses.

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