DPS News

Proactive Measures Lead to Successful E-Bike Recovery

When international student Fridgo Tasman discovered his e-bike had been stolen from the bike rack outside Carnegie Library, he had reason to hope for its return. That hope became reality, thanks to two simple but effective prevention measures he had taken before the theft occurred.

Tasman’s e-bike was successfully recovered and returned to him, an outcome made possible by his proactive approach to bike security.

“I’m just relieved and really grateful to have it back. Thank you to DPS for helping with that,” Tasman said. “While reading a crime prevention guide on the SU website, I found a form to register bicycles. At that moment, I thought about what I could do to help the authorities if something bad, like theft, happened to my bicycle. So, I added an extra layer of security by adding AirTags so the bicycle’s location could be easily tracked if it was stolen, and it works.”

“This was a great outcome, and it started with a student taking proactive steps to protect their property,” said Chief Mike Bunker. “When students use tools like bike registration and tracking technology, it significantly improves our ability to respond and recover stolen property.

Protect Your Bike: What You Can Do

Bicycle theft is a common campus concern, but students can take meaningful steps to protect their property and increase recovery chances:

Register your bike. Take advantage of free bike registration with the Department of Public Safety. This creates an official ownership record that aids recovery efforts.

Add tracking technology. Consider investing in an AirTag or similar tracking device. These affordable tools can be the difference between losing your bike permanently and getting it back quickly.

Use quality locks. Invest in a U-lock or heavy-duty chain lock, and always secure both the frame and wheels to a fixed object.

Park strategically. Use well-lit, high-traffic bike racks whenever possible. Thieves are less likely to target bikes in visible areas.

Document your bike. Take photos of your bike, including serial numbers and distinguishing features. Keep purchase receipts and documentation in a safe place.

Review crime prevention resources. Visit the DPS website for comprehensive guides on protecting your property and staying safe on campus.

Tasman’s experience demonstrates that prevention works. By taking simple, proactive steps before a theft occurs, students can significantly improve their chances of recovery.

If your bike is stolen, report it to DPS immediately at 315.443.2224. The sooner a theft is reported, the better the chances of recovery.

Public Safety Informational Notice: Vehicle Tampering and Attempted Thefts

The Department of Public Safety (DPS) is investigating a series of vehicle break-ins and attempted thefts in the South Campus residential area over the past week. Hyundai and Kia models have been specifically targeted although other vehicles have also been impacted.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Always lock your vehicle doors and ensure windows are fully closed, even when parked close to your residence or only leaving the vehicle for a brief period.
Do not leave keys, key fobs, or valuable items inside your vehicle. If you need to leave valuables inside the vehicle, make sure they aren’t visible.
Park in well-lit areas whenever possible.
If you see suspicious individuals in parking areas, do not approach them. Instead, contact DPS immediately at 315.443.2224.
Report any damage to your vehicle or evidence of tampering to DPS as soon as you discover it.

REPORT SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY
If you observe suspicious activity or have information regarding these incidents, please contact DPS at 315.443.2224 or the Syracuse Police Department at 315.442.5200. If you would like to anonymously report NON-EMERGENCY information for DPS, you can use the Silent Witness tool or the Orange Safe app.

We ask our community to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity promptly. Your quick reporting helps us respond faster and may prevent others from becoming victims.

If you or someone you know has been affected by an incident on or near campus, please know that there are resources available to you. In addition, for your safety, please review these suggested safety strategies.

February 2026 Updates From the Department of Public Safety

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff: 

As we settle into the new year and navigate the rest of winter, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) remains committed to partnering with each of you to keep our campus community safe. We encourage you to review the important information below.

This monthly update includes:

  • Winter Weather Safety Reminders
  • Package Theft Prevention
  • Campus Safety Resources
  • Spring Semester Safety Tips

Winter Weather Safety Reminders

Central New York winters can be unpredictable. Snow, ice and freezing temperatures can last through February and March. Whether you’re walking between classes, commuting to campus or running errands, you need to be extra careful during winter.

Walking on Campus:

  • Wear appropriate footwear with soles offering good traction to prevent slips and falls on icy sidewalks.
  • Use designated walkways and avoid shortcuts across snow-covered areas where ice may be hidden.
  • Be aware that it may be difficult to see ice on asphalt surfaces.
  • Allow extra time to reach your destination; rushing on slippery surfaces increases your risk of injury.

Driving in Winter Weather: 

  • Clear all snow and ice from your vehicle before driving, including windows, mirrors, lights and the roof.
  • Reduce your speed and increase following distance in snowy or icy conditions.
  • Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle with items like a blanket, flashlight, phone charger and snacks.
  • If conditions become unsafe while driving, find a safe place to pull over and wait for conditions to improve.

Dress for the Weather: 

  • Layer your clothing and wear a warm coat, hat and gloves when heading outdoors.
  • Be aware of frostbite and hypothermia risks during prolonged exposure to cold temperatures.

Package Theft Prevention

Online shopping and package deliveries continue year-round, making package theft an ongoing concern. Protect your deliveries with these simple steps: 

Prevent Package Theft: 

  • Track your packages and plan to be home when they arrive or arrange for pickup at a secure location.
  • Request signature confirmation for valuable items.
  • Ask a trusted neighbor or friend to collect packages if you’ll be away.
  • Consider having packages delivered to a package locker if available.
  • If you live off-campus, bring packages inside immediately upon delivery.

For On-Campus Residents:

  • Retrieve packages from your residence hall mail room promptly after receiving notification.
  • Never leave packages unattended in common areas or hallways.

If a package is stolen, report it immediately to DPS at 315.443.2224 and provide as much information as possible.

Important Campus Safety Resources 

We want to remind you of the campus safety resources available to you:

Orange Safe App

Connect directly to DPS with the push of a button, use Mobile Blue Light to share your location and access the Safe Walk feature. Download from the Apple App Store or Google Play store.

Emergency Contact

For emergencies, call DPS at 315.443.2224 or use one of the Blue Light emergency phones located throughout campus.

Campus Safety Information

Visit dps.syr.edu for comprehensive safety information, tips and resources. 

Anonymous Reporting

Use the Silent Witness tool to submit information anonymously about suspicious activity.

Spring Semester Safety Tips

As we move through the spring semester, remember to stay aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night. Use the Orange Safe app’s Safe Walk feature or request a safety escort shuttle. Keep your residence, vehicle and belongings secure by locking doors and windows and never leave valuables visible in your car.

DPS is here 24/7 to serve the Syracuse University community. If you see something concerning or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

We Are Here to Help 

As a reminder, if you have information that may be relevant to DPS or an ongoing investigation, it is never too late to come forward. You can call DPS at 315.443.2224 or submit information anonymously via the Silent Witness tool. In addition, to report a bias incident or receive support, visit the STOP Bias website.

Sincerely,

Chief Mike Bunker
Department of Public Safety

DPS Student Employees Make Meaningful Impact During Fall Semester

Article written by Lily Mallette, DPS Communications and Marketing Assistant

During the Fall 2025 semester, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) was strengthened by the dedication and professionalism of its student employees.

Working in multiple units across DPS, these students supported essential operations that help DPS serve the campus community. Their work reflects not only completed tasks—but also meaningful skill development and a deeper understanding of what it takes to keep a campus the size of Syracuse safe.

Read the full story on Syracuse University Today.

DeStress with DPS Brought Smiles, Support, and Stress Relief to Bird Library

Story by Alexa Selter, a senior in the Newhouse School of Public Communications and a communications and marketing assistant with the Department of Public Safety

As finals season kicked into high gear, Bird Library started feeling a little busier, a little louder, and a lot more caffeinated. To help students take a breather, the Department of Public Safety hosted its “Destress with DPS” event on Wednesday, Dec. 10.

Therapy dogs greeted students in the lobby, snacks were up for grabs, and students stopped by between study sessions to say hello, decompress, and maybe pet a dog (or three).

“We’re not just here for emergencies; we’re part of this community. Bringing therapy dogs and spending time with students during finals was one small way we could show our support,” said Officer Marcella Jewell. “Events like this let us connect with students in a way that is low-key and genuine.”

Beyond the puppies and snacks, the event also gave students a chance to chat with DPS staff casually, learn about campus safety resources, and put faces to the people behind the uniforms.

“It’s really important to take breaks when you’re stressed, especially in an environment like the library where you can feel pressure to constantly be working. Events like this remind us that it’s okay to pause, and it shows that the Syracuse community and staff genuinely care about our well-being,” said Nikki Saffar, a junior psychology major. “Plus, everyone loves dogs, so that’s a bonus.”

The atmosphere was relaxed, and the goal was simple: to give students a moment to pause during a stressful week and remind them that DPS is here as a resource and an integral part of the campus community.

Finals week can be overwhelming. DPS hopes events like this made the campus feel more connected and reminded students they weren’t tackling the semester alone.

With finals behind you and winter break ahead, take time to rest, recharge, and enjoy the well-deserved break.