The University of Wisconsin-Madison Police Department (UWPD) is investigating an attempted strong-armed robbery outside Sellery Residence Hall that allegedly occurred on Saturday, according to a UWPD crime warning email sent to UW-Madison students and faculty on Thursday.
The victim said an unknown suspect attempted to steal his bike outside Sellery Residence Hall between 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. on Saturday, and after a short physical struggle, the suspect fled the area.
Bike and scooter thefts have been a long-standing issue on campus.
UWPD encouraged those who are confronted by an individual attempting to rob them to give up their property without resistance, according to the email.
UWPD communications director Marc Lovicott previously told The Daily Cardinal that one of the most common mistakes students make is failing to properly secure their bikes or scooters, leaving them vulnerable to theft.
UWPD encourages students to invest in high quality U-locks, which are more difficult to break through than cheaper alternatives like cable locks. Additionally, students are recommended to record their serial numbers and utilize GPS devices in order to prevent bike thefts.
Lovicott also emphasized that students should never attempt to retrieve stolen property on their own even if they can track its location. Instead, students should contact the police so officers can intervene safely, he said.
Ella Hanley is the associate news editor for The Daily Cardinal. She has written breaking, city, state and campus news. Follow her on Twitter at @ellamhanley.
