Suspect Apprehended by Columbia University Department of Public Safety
On Monday, February 9, 2009, a male suspect was apprehended by members of Columbia University Public Safety and turned over to the New York Police Department (NYPD) after several reports were received for thefts taking place in Mudd, Jerome Greene Law School, and Dodge Gym on January 26 and 27, 2009. Video review from surveillance cameras further identified the man's appearance on these dates, and a Public Safety alert was distributed.
Jim Verdicchio, Assistant Director, Investigations and Technology, observed the suspect on West 116th Street between Amsterdam Avenue and Morningside Drive and notified the Investigations Office. He received backup from Public Safety's Senior Investigator Brian Tesseyman, Assistant Director Jorge Farina, and Manager of Crime Prevention Programs Ricardo Morales. The suspect was apprehended, without incident, near the steps of Kent Hall on Columbia's College Walk.
A post apprehension interview with the suspect revealed that he had been visiting the Morningside campus on a regular basis and used stolen identification. He admitted to at least 12 laptop thefts and provided additional information to the NYPD. Follow-up with complainants and notifications have been made by the Investigations Unit.
As evident by this recent arrest, The Department of Public Safety works very hard, day in and day out, to fulfill their commitment to keep the Columbia community safe. Public Safety's investigators use their wealth of experience and partnership with local law enforcement as well as up-to-date technologies to fully serve the public. Students, employees, and guests are encouraged to report criminal incidents, accidents, and other emergencies promptly to the Department of Public Safety Operations Centers at the Morningside campus or Medical Center. You can do so by using the following contact information:
Morningside campus
111 Low Library, Mail Code 4301
535 West 116th Street
New York, NY 10027
Phone: (212) 854-2797
Emergency: (212) 854-5555
Medical Center
109 Black Building
650 West 168th Street
New York, NY 10032
Phone: (212) 305-8100
Emergency: (212) 305-7979