Back-to-school theft and robbery awareness

Toronto Police Service News Release

Back-to-school theft and robbery awareness

Tuesday, September 2, 2014 - 6:00 AM
33 Division:  416-808-3300

With a new school year beginning, students are going to be equipped with electronic devices that include iPads, smartphones, cell phones and video games. Past crime trends have indicated that criminals target students for these devices, mainly during lunch hours and immediately after school, in the proximity of the school or along pathways.

The Toronto Police Service and 33 Division would like to ensure that all students returning from summer holidays are aware of this type of crime.

In an effort to protect and support our students within 33 Division, a robbery awareness and prevention pamphlet will be made available on the 33 Division Facebook page as well as Twitter news feed. The title of the pamphlet is "Don’t Get Punked," which describes the type of crime indicated.

Please keep the following information in mind when heading to school:

- keep money, all electronic devices or other valuables out of sight and close to you at all times
- if you don’t need the device or item at school, please keep it at home
- be aware of your surroundings and who is around you
- report any suspicious or criminal incidents to the police as well as your school
- talk to the police officers in and around your school; they are there to help
- keep a record of all serial numbers for your items in a safe place at home
- walk in groups when possible
- if you walk alone, please do not use earbuds/head phones and remain aware of spaces and/or persons in the area

By adhering to these simple crime-prevention tips, you can help reduce robberies and have a safe school environment.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable David Hopkinson, Corporate Communications, for Constable Ellie Matheson, 33 Division