Dear UMB Community:

I am now in my second week as chief of the University of Maryland, Baltimore Police Department (UMBPD). As part of my commitment to safety at UMB, I am pleased to announce that the person we believe is responsible for the Aug. 19 armed assaults and robberies in the Pratt Street and Plaza garages has been arrested. After conducting an investigation, UMBPD police officers found strong evidence that the crime was carried out by someone with inside knowledge of the organization. This was not a random crime. I want to thank UMBPD and our partners at the Baltimore Police Department for their work on this case.

I have heard from many of you, and I understand how concerning it can be to receive a UMB Alert when a crime occurs. It is my commitment to be completely transparent. Sending these alerts ensures that our whole community is informed, aware, and can take action to protect themselves. Despite the perception about crime at UMB, the University has seen a 32 percent reduction in crime compared to 2019, when on-campus density was at similar levels. We are committed to reducing crime and ensuring the safety of our UMB community. 

I also want to take a moment to refresh some safety tips and resources offered by UMBPD:

• Be aware of your surroundings: This is our TOP tip! 
• Avoid distractions such as phone calls, music, headphones, and emails. 
• Walk along major well-lit roadways and avoid alleys. 
• If possible, walk in a group. 
• If you ever feel unsafe, go inside a building and tell a security officer. 
• Safe Ride: Safe Ride is available 7 a.m. to 1 a.m., 7 days a week. Request a Safe Ride through the Mobile UMB app or by calling 410-706-6882. Average wait time for a Safe Ride is eight to 10 minutes. 
• Safe Walk: Safe Walk is available 24/7 within UMB’s campus. Call 410-706-6882 to request a Safe Walk.
• Safety Cards: These small cards include important emergency information and phone numbers. Print your own or pick one up from a security desk or security officer on patrol.
• Sign up for training: R.A.D. Self-Defense Training for Women will be offered Nov. 2 to Dec. 9. Learn more and sign up for training. 
• If you see something, say something! Our police and security officers can be easily found throughout campus. Security officers wear a red shirt and a yellow reflective “Security” vest. Police officers wear a black uniform and vest. Our police communications operators are available 24/7 by calling 410-706-6882 or by using any of UMB’s 31 blue light phones. In an emergency, always call 911!

I will continue to work every day to ensure the safety of our UMB community as you live, work, and learn at our beautiful University. 

Sincerely,

Thomas Leone, MSL
UMB Chief of Police