UT Police at Houston Campus Safety

UT Police at Houston believes the actions and awareness of the faculty, staff, residents, and students are the best methods to eliminate the opportunity for a potential crime.

Last month, UT Police asked the community to be aware of a woman who has been stealing items in the Texas Medical Center, including in several UTHealth Houston and MD Anderson buildings. Over several weeks, the unknown woman entered buildings, sometimes using an unassuming demeanor to get into restricted areas. Once inside, she took items from unattended purses and bags in offices and workspaces.

The woman has targeted UTHealth Houston buildings, including the UTHealth Houston Professional Building, UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry, and UTHealth Houston School of Public Health. Most recently, the suspect has targeted MD Anderson’s South Campus Research Building 3 and South Campus Research Building 4. The woman is also suspected in thefts reported at McGovern Medical School.

Surveillance video shows the woman always wears a surgical mask to hide her face. The suspect wears a variety of clothing, including clothing with Texas Medical Center institutional logos, and blends into her surroundings.

Protect Yourself at Work

• Lock your office door every time you leave, and secure your office and belongings.
• Require identification before admitting someone unfamiliar into your room or office.
• Keep emergency numbers near your work phone and save them in your cell phone’s address book.

Protect Your Property

• Don’t leave valuables such as wallets, purses, cell phones, or tablets in plain view. Avoid storing valuables or shopping bags in the trunk after you park. Instead, stow them prior to leaving your location.
• If you get a credit card alert, promptly verify that the card is still in your possession.
• Be cognizant of your surroundings and the people around you, especially if you’re alone or it’s dark.
• Avoid using headphones, cell phones, or other mobile devices while walking to your vehicle or office.
• If someone in a vehicle stops and asks for directions, answer from a distance. Don’t approach the vehicle.

Protect Our Buildings and Properties

• Always display an institutional ID badge and be attentive to prevent anyone from following you into a secured area.
• Don’t allow someone in if they don’t belong. If you encounter anyone who disregards your attempts to keep a building or property secure, alert a public safety officer.

Maintaining a secure environment is in the hands of each and every individual. If you encounter suspicious activity or behavior, contact UT Police at 713-792-2890 or ask a public safety officer for assistance.

UT Police offers several safety programs to reduce or minimize the risk of becoming a victim of crime. Departments and workgroups can also request safety classes.