A student was recognized last week by UAPD for his help in apprehending a suspect in a theft and trespass crime, officials said.
Andrew Blackwell, a business management junior, aided police by providing information to create a sketch of a suspect who was involved in a theft at Bear Down Gymnasium, 1428 E. University Blvd.
Blackwell, who is also a U.S. Marine Corps sergeant, spotted the suspect at the gym after reporting the crime to UAPD. He immediately called police, who were able to apprehend the suspect and charge him for theft and trespassing, reports stated.
In recognition of Blackwell's help, UAPD awarded him with a "Partners in Our Community" certificate and a pen.
"Partners in Our Community" is a subdivision of the crime prevention program at the UAPD. It began last semester to help encourage students and people in the community to not only report crimes that are happening, but to call 911 to report any suspicious activity they witness.
Through recognizing these people for their aid in getting criminals off the street, UAPD hopes to encourage more to do it, said Chris Scheopner, a UAPD officer.
"Fifty thousand people can patrol campus better than three to eight officers," Scheopner said.
If someone sees a crime happening they should call police, said Blackwell. "Don't do it for an award, do it because it's the right thing to do."
Blackwell was the second student recognized by UAPD this year for aiding in the apprehension of a suspect. The first "Partners in Our Community" recognition was given to Joe Hernandez, a management information systems and operation management senior, on Dec. 8, Scheopner said.
Hernandez said he called police when he spotted an individual breaking into a car in one of the campus garages.
Hernandez provided police with information that resulted in the arrest of three suspects and the recovery of many stolen items, Scheopner said.
Hernandez said the first thing he thought to do when he saw the man breaking into the car was call the police.
"I thought of all those people who have had their cars broken into and had no justice," Hernandez said.
Many people are hesitant to call police because they are worried about possible retaliation by the suspect, Hernandez said.
"But if we get them off the street the better it is, so call police if you see anything," Hernandez said.
UAPD plans to continue rewarding people who help in the apprehension of criminals to keep encouraging others to do it, said Scheopner.
"It makes campus safer when everyone is looking out for everyone," said Scheopner.