The victim said that HUPD is considering whether to charge the suspects with civil rights violation, but said that he wasn’t sure there was enough concrete evidence to prove the charge.
“No decision has been made as to whether further charges will be pressed against the others in the group,” Catalano said.
Catalano said he could not comment on the motive of the suspects, but did say the incident was not being classified as a robbery because no money was demanded.
The victim said that he was very impressed not only by HUPD’s quick response and handling of the entire situation.
“HUPD had a really fast response time,” the victim said.
Safety Concerns
This string of crimes in an area most students consider a safe haven is causing concern in the community.
Although buildings in the Yard are often the target of larcenies, Catalano, said that he “can’t remember” another robbery in the Yard during his three years at HUPD.
While Catalano said he could not comment on staffing levels for the Yard, he did say that HUPD will be “paying extra attention to the Yard in an attempt to ensure the Yard is safe and secure.”
And with all three cases still under investigation, Catalano offered some advice to the community.
“Anybody put in an uncomfortable situation should try to get away as quickly as possible and call us,” he said. “If they can’t escape, they shouldn’t put up a fight. They should attempt to draw as much attention to themselves as possible by screaming.”
Dean of Freshmen Elizabeth Studley “Ibby” Nathans wrote in an e-mail that she talked to HUPD about issuing a community advisory after the first Yard robbery occurred.
“When incidents such as the recent robberies occur, we urge students to follow the reminder and advice provided by HUPD,” Nathans said.
Catalano e-mailed an advisory to the Harvard community on Friday afternoon about the two Yard robberies, urging people to contact HUPD if they have any information about the incidents.
Despite the incidents, Catalano said that students should not be afraid to walk through the Yard, as long as they exercise proper caution.
“They should be vigilant when walking day or night, anywhere they are,” he said. “Walk in numbers, and use Safety Walk whenever possible.”
—Staff writer Jenifer L. Steinhardt can be reached at steinhar@fas.harvard.edu.