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Drexel Issues Warning About String Of Cell Phone Robberies

By Tim Jimenez

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Public Safety officials at Drexel University are warning students and staffers about a string of cell phone robberies on campus.

On Drexel's campus, like many other places, there are distracted walkers everywhere you look. Even hours after an advisory goes out warning students and staff to keep their heads up, it's business as usual for many people.

"People just don't think it will happen to them," Madelyn, a school employee, said. "Facebook updates and emails are more important at the time than taking precaution at the time and putting your phone away."

Authorities report three cell phone robberies and one strong armed incident in the past week, right in the heart of campus. One took place near 32nd and Market at 1:30 Friday afternoon. Police say a man on a bike grabbed someone's phone from behind before riding away.

Students like Monica and Mick say they're not too worried.

"I mean, you can't live in fear," Monica said. "I just live my life. I'll just be a little more cautious but that's about it."

"That's not to say nothing will ever happen to me, but these are just risks you take of living in the city," Mick said.

School officials say this time of year, in particular, is a concern with freshmen and new students adjusting to their new surroundings.

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