The Collegian - Attempted robbery targets ATM
A University sophomore has been charged with criminal mischief after attempting to break into the ATM located in the Hinton Center on March 11.
University police arrested the 19-year-old student at approximately 1:30 a.m. after he fled the scene and was found running along Fondren Road.
According to the University Police Department, the student followed maintenance personnel into Hinton, sprayed black spray paint on the ATM's security camera and then used a crowbar to pry open the plastic cover surrounding the machine's cash vault.
The custodial staff heard the noise and alerted the police before the vault could be opened.
Police said the student fled the scene and was later taken into custody after a short struggle with officers.
The maintenance personnel later identified the student, telling officers that his appearance matched that of the vandal.
University police chief Charles Miller said the student was jailed that night.
"He decided to commit a crime against the University," Miller said. "My officers are here 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. If you commit a crime on campus, we will put you in jail."
The student has been charged with felony criminal mischief and has been released on bail, according to the Harris County District Clerk's Office. He is currently awaiting trial after being formally charged on March 29. No plea has been entered into court records.
The student could face jail time if convicted.
According to the FBI's Uniform Crime Report, the University ranks as one of the safest schools in the Greater Houston area.
In 2009, the University reported 21 larcenies or thefts, two burglaries and one burglary of a motor vehicle.
Miller said that while the University's crime rate remains low, students and faculty should not think that crime does not happen and advised they remain vigilant.
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