February 2023

Feb. 15, 2023
 
Dear UMB Community:
 
February is a time to show others how much we care about them. At the University of Maryland, Baltimore Police Department (UMBPD), this care is shown in many ways: our continuous engagement with our community; our development of compassionate and empathetic officers; our commitment to making UMB a safe place to live, work, and learn. 
 
Let me be clear: Crime at UMB remains low. In the February President’s Message, you can find a breakdown of 2022 UMB crime data compared to Baltimore City, as well as a comparison to data from previous years. I hope you will take the time to read this article, which includes important information, context, and safety tips.
 
The safety of our UMB community is my top priority. Our department continues to use data-driven policing strategies to keep crime low. We collaborate with the University of Maryland School of Social Work to provide critical resources to vulnerable communities. We mentor local youth through our Police Athletic/Activities League in partnership with the Community Engagement Center. We continuously monitor UMB buildings and garages, provide 24/7 support when you call, and so much more. It’s just a few more ways we show we care.
 
Sincerely,
 
Thomas Leone, MSL
Assistant Vice President for Public Safety and Chief of Police
 
Safety Tip of the Month: UMB shuttle
The UMB shuttle is a great way to get around Baltimore. Stay safe by following these simple tips:
  • Stand back from the curb. Stay clear until the shuttle has stopped completely.
  • Look for your shuttle. Let the operator know you want to board by waving your hand or your UMID as the shuttle approaches. 
  • Stay alert. Be aware of your surroundings and those around you. Put away cellphones and headphones. 
 
Chief Leone named Campus Safety Director of the Year Finalist
Leone is one of nine finalists nationally for Campus Safety Magazine Higher Education/Healthcare Campus Safety Director of the Year. The winner will be announced at the Campus Safety Conference West in Las Vegas on July 10-12. Learn more. 
 
Reminder: Swipe UMID at Card Readers
All UMB faculty, staff, and students must swipe their UMID at the red and green card readers when entering a UMB building lobby. For the safety of our UMB community, a security officer will remind you to swipe if you forget. Please remember our core values set of Respect and Integrity; our security officers are doing their job. Learn more.
 
Heading to the Academy
Two new police officers to-be are heading to the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission police academy on March 4. Mikal Diggs and former UMB security officer Stephen Howard will spend six months learning law enforcement operations and functions. Stay tuned for a series in The Elm about their experience! 
 
Security at the Hippodrome
Our UMB police officers are heading to the theater! (Kind of.) UMBPD is collaborating with the Hippodrome Theatre to provide additional public safety resources along North Eutaw Street and North Paca Street on show nights. Don’t worry – we won’t be singing or dancing. UMB faculty, staff, and students can purchase discounted tickets through the UMB Council for the Arts & Culture.
 
Public Safety Spotlights and New Employees
Each month, UMBPD spotlights our committed employees. This month, meet PFC David Maynard, police communications operator Brittany Nelson, and security officer Isidro Quinones.
 
We also want to welcome our new January employees: security officers Yemici Adediran, Sanaya Arnold, Dominique Jones, Yasmin Nesmith, and Kanija Paschall.  
 
Lithium-Ion Battery Safety
Lithium-ion batteries supply power to many kinds of devices, including smartphones, laptops, e-scooters, e-bikes, hoverboards, e-cigarettes, smoke alarms, toys, and even cars. If not used correctly or if damaged, these batteries can catch on fire or explode. Learn about the signs of a problem, safety tips, and safe disposal.
 
Follow Us on Social Media
The UMB Office of the Fire Marshal is now part of UMB Public Safety! That means you can find behind-the-scenes photos of fire drills, building inspections, and much more on our @PoliceUMB Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts. Follow along and get to know Fire Marshal Andrew Roberts and Assistant Fire Marshal Thomas Good. Check out their latest Facebook post here.
 
Preparedness Pro Training
Do you have what it takes to be a Preparedness Pro? OEM offers this digital credential to those who complete five public safety and emergency management trainings. These micro-credentials provide important life-safety information to build a more resilient UMB. Learn more about Preparedness Pro training.
 
Lab Safety Awareness Week Is Feb. 13-17!
In celebration of Lab Safety Awareness Week, EHS is sponsoring a contest to have your laboratory featured on our website as “Lab Safety Rockstars.” 
 
To enter, just click here to download a survey form based on our Top 10 Lab Safety Inspection Findings. Complete the survey and return it to EHS. Just by participating and engaging in the process, you are demonstrating your lab’s commitment to lab safety! All entries must be submitted by Feb. 24.
 
Please visit umaryland.edu/police for more information
about the UMB Police Department. 
 
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Office of Communications and Public Affairs

220 Arch Street, Baltimore, MD 21201