In response to a series of recent incidents near the University of Cincinnati, the Cincinnati Police Department announced that it will re‑install traffic barricades on Calhoun Street and McMillan Street on the southern edge of campus. The barriers are scheduled to go up around 11 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday, creating a temporary traffic restriction intended to deter criminal activity and protect students and residents.
Safety flyers and door‑hangers distributed to students
Police officers have been walking the area around the university handing out flyers that outline simple safety measures. The handouts advise students to lock doors and windows, keep valuables out of plain sight, and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. Door‑hangers with the same tips have also been placed on nearby residences.
“We didn’t see people’s windows getting broken, we saw things being in plain view, unlocked windows being pushed up and things being grabbed,” said Cincinnati police Sgt. Mark Weston. “Something as simple as that can eliminate you from being a victim.”
Recent incidents prompting the response
The decision to reinforce campus security follows a shooting that occurred Friday afternoon on Short Vine Street, as well as a pattern of burglaries and thefts that police say are the most common crimes near the university. By re‑establishing the barricades and increasing outreach, the department hopes to reduce opportunities for opportunistic crimes.
What residents can expect
The temporary barricades will restrict vehicle access to the affected streets during the late‑night hours. Pedestrians will still be able to walk the routes, and the police will maintain a visible presence throughout the weekend. Residents are encouraged to cooperate with the restrictions and to keep an eye on their property.
Police officials emphasized that the measures are a proactive step, not a reaction to a single event. “Our goal is to create a safer environment for everyone who lives, works, or studies in this part of the city,” Sgt. Weston added.
How to stay safe
- Lock all doors and windows, even when you are home.
- Keep valuables out of sight from windows and doors.
- Report any suspicious behavior to 911 or the non‑emergency police line.
- Follow any posted signage regarding the temporary barricades.
The Cincinnati Police Department will continue to monitor the situation and may adjust the restrictions based on community feedback and crime trends. For updates, residents can follow the department’s official social‑media channels or visit the city’s public safety website.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
