Denver Police say the man responsible for a string of burglaries around the DU area attacked a young woman during his latest house break-in on March 11.
The woman, who is not a DU student but lives near campus in the 2000 block of South Josephine Street, sustained minor injuries. More details about the victim have not been released, but police say she is cooperating with their investigation.
The incident is the 13th in a series of burglaries reported in the area since Jan. 1; two occurred this week.
Police have released a composite sketch of the suspect. He is described as a black male in his mid-20s to mid-30s with light colored skin and freckles, about 6 feet tall with an athletic build.
Denver Police are canvassing near campus today, warning students and neighbors about the crimes. The suspect’s target area has increased in size and his actions have taken a violent turn, police say.
In previous burglaries, the suspect threatened victims with a weapon but did not attack them.
Administration officials have pledged their full support to the Denver Police as they work to apprehend the suspect.
DU Campus Safety Director Don Enloe says each incident occurred in private residences close to the University, and that the suspect targets electronics he can sell easily such as laptops and televisions.
DU has increased patrols of the area and its campus safety officers have been instructed to notify Denver Police of any suspicious activity, says Jim Berscheidt, University spokesman. DU will also contribute $5,000 to the Metro Denver Crime Stoppers’ reward fund for information leading to the arrest of the suspect for a total reward of $7,000. No break-ins have occurred on campus.
Police are urging residents to keep their doors locked and make their homes appear to be occupied by leaving lights on.
“We need residents to be extra eyes and ears,” Denver Police Public Information Officer Sonny Jackson said last week.
Anyone with information can call Denver police at 720–913–6120, the DU anonymous tip line at 303–871–3130 or Metro Denver Crime Stoppers at 720–913–7867.