Yale University is sending a warning to its students after groups of unruly teens on bicycles harassed people walking in the area.
"It was just a couple of them. It was on the same day. the first time I saw three of them," said Jessica, a Yale University senior, who didn't want to give her last name.
She said they didn't intimidate her as she was running in East Rock, "I just noticed them. They seemed really aggressive. That was kind of scary."
Police are worried that the aggressive behavior could lead to something worse. Just days ago the University Police Chief sent a campus wide email alerting the student body to recent instances of teenagers on bikes, intimidating pedestrians and drivers.
"I'd probably just give them what they wanted and try and get home," said Andy Sternad, who has never seen any crew of bikers but got the email and says he's always thinking about his safety. "I'm in the architecture school and we have late hours and just try and walk home with a friend."
Sternad--like Yale Police--recommends not wearing headphones and just paying attention.
"When I decided to come to Yale that's something I knew I needed to be aware of constantly especially when you're walking around late at night," Jessica added.
Local
Police say many street robberies happen when students are distracted with activities like texting. They also suggest looking for well-lit areas to walk.
"Don't have your cell phone out," Jessica said. I do feel like if you're smart, if you are aware, Yale is doing a very good job of trying to make sure people are around. They have the blue lights and officers out late at night."
Yale Police say they have sent out some additional officers throughout campus in response. They also encourage students to use safety measures like shuttles and door to rides at night.
