Student awakened by stranger

On Monday, March 25, Portland State’s Campus Public Safety Office received a report that an unknown man entered an occupied dormitory room in the Broadway Housing Building at approximately 5 a.m.

The man was described as an adult white male with a thin build who looked to be “college-age,” which could range from 19–35 years old, and was not a transient. He was wearing a white beanie-style hat, a dark coat, light-colored trousers and Toms shoes.

The timely warning released by CPSO reminded students and residents of the dormitories to be aware of their surroundings, pay attention to people in the residence halls, prevent unauthorized people from following them into the dormitories and keep doors closed and locked.

Sgt. Joe Schilling of CPSO reiterated the importance of students being mindful of their surroundings and observant of what’s going on around them—and asking for help if they are in a situation where they don’t feel safe.

“Any time of the day or night, students should be aware of their surroundings and need to know they can call 911 or CPSO if they are concerned for their safety or uncomfortable in a situation,” Schilling said. “This includes keeping doors latched and locked for their own safety and security and paying attention to those simple safety issues.”

Students are advised to contact CPSO’s emergency line at 503-725-4404 to report the presence of anyone believed to be in the dorms without permission or any suspicious activity.

Even if you are hesitant to call, do it anyway, Schilling said.

“Be aware of your surroundings, and if you see something that seems a little out of place, call us,” he said. “If you see someone walking up and down the hallway checking doorknobs, don’t assume they’re looking for a friend. Call us and we can contact the subject and get the situation figured out safely.”

Schilling said a similar incident occurred over winter break in Broadway but that the incidents are unrelated.

The timely warning also encouraged residents of the dorms who are concerned about this incident or any other related issue to contact University Housing and Residence Life at 503-725-4370.

CPSO will post updates and further information about this incident on their website at pdx.edu/cpso.

If students have any nonemergency concerns regarding campus safety, they are advised to contact CPSO at 503-725-4407.

As always, support services are available for anyone who feels affected by this incident at the Women’s Resource Center and the Center for Student Health and Counseling.