Crime log: Gangs and Graffitti

Wednesday Feb. 24, 6:20 p.m. – Westby Hall

Rowan housekeeping complained when a male student was spotted spray painting a bathroom stall. The student claimed he had permission for the spray painting and insisted he had talked to a department chair about it.

Boy do I wish I was a fly on the wall for that conversation. Can’t you just picture it? “Um, Dr. So and So, I was thinking it would look really cool if I took some spray paint and headed down to the first floor bathroom. What do you think?”

Since this was the second bathroom stall defaced in two weeks, the only reasoning I can come up with is that the art department is trying a new type of performance piece. Or maybe the art students got tired of mundane walls and boring bathroom stalls. I, for one, don’t blame them.

I mean, have you been inside Westby? Besides the toilets, it’s a pretty creative and colorful place.

Wednesday Feb. 24, 9:13p.m. – Student Center Loading Dock

Two male students walking by the loading dock – you know, where all those freight ships come and go – were spotted by police with contraband. The students were in possession of a stolen bag of hamburger rolls and a pack of Coke cups.

The two were seen getting into a black Hummer, but it didn’t occur to witnesses to check the getaway car’s plates. Obviously, witnesses were in shock over the theft and worried what the culprits would take next.

I’m assuming the students had some barbecuing to do, but without soda or hamburger patties, I’m sure their next stop was ACME.

Or maybe they held up the Market Basket.

Friday Feb. 26, 10:42 a.m. – Ellis Road

Property owned by Rowan on Ellis Road – another notoriously random Rowan location – was found to have graffiti all over it.

Upon further investigation, it was found that the markings were affiliated with the Latin Kings gang.

Who am I kidding? I’m not about to make fun of a gang affiliated with the Bloods. Have you seen the HBO documentary? Plus, one time I wore a black bandanna while playing softball and let’s just say I learned my lesson.

Although these briefs are a sample of actual incidents reported by Public Safety please note, creative license has been taken. The full report can be obtained at the office of the Department of Public Safety in Bole Annex.

Rowan University Detective Bureau anonymous tip line: 856-256-7428.