NC West Virginia News

The West Virginia University Police Department (UPD) issued a Community Notice on October 23, following an increase in reports of thefts from vehicles. A suspect has been charged in connection with these incidents.

Since October 19, four vehicle larceny cases have been reported at various parking locations including the Mountainlair, near the WVU College of Law, and on Fife Avenue. On October 23, Cristine Flesher, a 40-year-old resident of Morgantown who is not affiliated with the university, was arrested and charged with larceny from a vehicle at the Mountainlair Parking Garage.

"Surveillance video was key to making the arrest quickly," stated Chief Sherry St. Clair. "This case and the others serve as reminders that we must all be vigilant and take steps to prevent crimes of opportunity."

These recent cases add to those mentioned in a previous Community Notice issued on September 11. In response, UPD has increased patrols in affected areas and continues its investigations.

The department encourages anyone with relevant information to contact them at 304-293-COPS (2677) or visit their office at 992 Elmer Prince Drive. Information can be provided anonymously.

West Virginia University remains committed to ensuring campus safety and offers several tips for preventing potential crimes: lock your vehicle, secure windows and doors when unattended, regularly check your vehicle, avoid leaving spare keys accessible, inspect your vehicle before use, report any suspicious activity or tampering immediately, refrain from driving if parts are missing unless safe to do so, avoid touching any tools or items left around your car and notify officers if necessary. If you feel endangered or witness a crime or potentially dangerous situation, call 911 or UPD.

For emergencies on campus, utilize the blue light emergency call system if available. The university also provides numerous resources for health and safety assistance through various departments and encourages community members to follow updates via social media channels like Facebook and X (@WVUsafety), as well as using the LiveSafe app for notifications.

Health, safety preparedness and training resources can be accessed online at safety.wvu.edu and police.wvu.edu.