Reports of vehicle break-ins and thefts on nearby college campuses

by Betsy Chapman, Ph.D. ('92, MA '94)

The Wake Forest University Police Department works closely with other nearby universities to stay informed of safety issues affecting college campuses in Winston-Salem. In January and February, various issues related to vehicles (break-ins, thefts and vandalism) were reported at Wake Forest. Other area universities have also reported increases in these kinds of incidents.

In many of the cases reported, vehicles were left unlocked, the keys were in the car or valuables were visible.

Members of our community who park cars on or near campus should remember to:

  • Lock your car and take your keys.

  • Remove valuables from the vehicle or keep them out of sight (including laptops, backpacks, shopping bags, electronics and loose change).

  • Protect your phone with a pin or Face ID to help keep personal information and accounts safe.

Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to promptly report a vehicle theft or suspicious activity observed on or around campus. If you have any information that might be helpful, contact the University Police at 336-758-5591. If you wish to provide information anonymously, do so through “Silent Witness.”

Campus Safety Reminders

If you feel uneasy or unsafe, go to a safe location and call a friend or the police at 911. University Police offers a safe escort service on campus that is available 24 hours at 336-758-5911.

The LiveSafe Mobile App allows Wake Forest students, staff, and faculty to have a conversation with University police. It provides direct access to police, 911 emergency services, emergency location sharing, information sharing with quick tips, and a peer-to-peer Safe Walk tool.

Emergency Blue Light Call Boxes are located throughout campus [PDF Map]. Push the button once to speak with a dispatcher.

Telephone Boxes are located near some building entrances. Pick up the receiver and dial 911 to reach a dispatcher.

A list of Personal Safety & Crime Resources is available on the University Police Department website.

Contact

To contact the Office of Family Engagement or Family Communications, please visit our contact page.

 

For mental health assistance: 336-758-CARE (2273) is a service that ensures someone will always be available (i.e., 24/7 M-F, weekends and university holidays) to provide caring and thoughtful consultation services for Wake Forest students in need of mental health assistance or support.