University president targets campus crime

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COLUMBIA, S.C., Feb. 21 (UPI) -- University of South Carolina President Harris Pastides has pledged vigilance against crime after the third violent on-campus incident in one week.

Pastides sent a letter to students, faculty and staff members Wednesday, The (Columbia, S.C.) State reported, announcing the addition of six new campus police officers as well as other investments in technology to deter crime.

Pastides also said he will discuss the school's collaboration with the Columbia Police Department.

The most recent incident occurred Tuesday, when a woman was sexually assaulted and robbed while walking on campus, The State reported. The woman said she believed her attacker was armed.

Last week, two armed robberies were reported, The State said. The three victims of the robberies were walking on campus when attackers approached in cars.

The university is warning students to take precautions by traveling in well-lit areas or taking the campus shuttle, The State said.