Local Police Investigating a Pair of Robberies

Brad Kroner / February 1, 2016 / 2.1k

The Frostburg State University Police Department is seeking information regarding a pair of robberies that occurred around 2 a.m. on Sunday, January 31. One robbery occurred on campus, outside Annapolis Hall, and the other occurred off campus, near College Avenue and Center Street.

“There is limited suspect information at this time but [it] does seem that the cases may be related,” said FSU Police Chief Cynthia Smith in an email to The Bottom Line. Smith added that on campus robberies are rare and the last one was several years ago.

"The robberies are alarming and we need to come together as a campus and watch out for each other," said Marlon Pointer II, a FSU student. — “The robberies are alarming and we need to come together as a campus and watch out for each other,” said Marlon Pointer II, a FSU student. (Tierra Brown/TBL)

“Students should walk in groups, remain aware of their surroundings (no cell phones ear buds etc.), and call 911 if suspicious,” said Smith in an email to The Bottom Line. “Avoid alcohol and drug use as these substances will impair ones ability to remain alert. The investigations are ongoing and we are asking anyone with information to call us. They can use the anonymous tip line.”

Lieutenant T. Scott Donahue sent two emails to the campus community on February 1, sharing information about the robberies and seeking information.

Below is information regarding the on campus robbery.

“Frostburg State University Police are investigating a report of an On-Campus ‘Robbery’ that occurred on January 31, 2016 at about 2:15am outside the rear entrance of Annapolis Hall,” the email read. “Investigation revealed two (FSU students) exited the rear of Annapolis hall where they were approached by two black males who requested a cigarette. The suspects for reasons unknown began to assault both students. Both suspects were yelling “empty your pockets” as they continued to punch and kick the victims. One of the victims had his wallet stolen which consisted of $80.00 in currency and multiple credit cards. The other victim, a cigarette. Both suspects according to the victims quickly ran off running in the direction of University Dr.”

The email described the suspects as “black males, very tall, (exact height and weight unknown) one of the males had dreadlocks and both were wearing black coats.

The second email detailed the off campus robbery.

“On January 31, 2016 at approximately 1:59am, Frostburg State University student entered University Police Headquarters advising he was assaulted and robbed in the vicinity of Center Street and College Avenue, as he was walking back to campus. The victim stated he was tackled to ground by a black male and while on the ground three additional black males began to punch and kick him, demanding money. The victim surrendered his wallet to the suspects by throwing it on the ground. Victim advised the suspects stopped assaulting him at that point, took the wallet and left the area walking north on Center Street.

Suspect(s) Description: Victim was only able to provide a limited description of the suspect that tackled him to the ground. Tall black male, light skinned, wearing braces on his teeth. Additional suspect information/description(s) unavailable at this time.

Frostburg City Police and Frostburg State University Police are investigating the incident.”

Anyone who may have witnessed this crime or has information about the incident is asked to contact Frostburg State University Police at 301-687-4222 (emergency), 301-687-4223 (non-emergency), or 301-687-STOP (7867) ( Anonymous Police Tip Hotline).