The UC Santa Cruz Police Department would like to thank the campus community for its assistance locating a suspect in the Wednesday night theft of a backpack and laptop from McHenry Library.
Less than an hour after campus police earlier today released images of the suspect, UC Santa Cruz officers arrested Troy Witzke, 22, originally from Montana, at Pacific Avenue and Laurel Drive on suspicion of burglary and possession of stolen property. He was placed on a parole hold.
The arrest came after a community member recognized the suspect from the campus email bulletin. Officers recovered a stolen laptop associated with the campus theft case, as well as other items believed to be stolen.
Witzke was booked into the Santa Cruz County Jail.
This bulletin is in compliance with 20 U.S.C. Section 1092 (f), the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act), and the Code of Federal Regulations.
The UC Santa Cruz Police Department is seeking the campus community’s help in identifying a suspect in the Wednesday night theft of a backpack and laptop from McHenry Library, and in the attempted theft of a backpack.
The attached images show the suspect in the library on Wednesday night.
Police ask that anyone who recognizes this person to call the police department at 831-459-2231, ext. 1.
Safety Tips
- If you feel you or others are in danger, immediately call 911.
- Victims of crime as well as witnesses to any crime should report all crimes, suspicious people, activity or information to the UC Santa Cruz Police Department, when it is safe to do so, by calling 911.
- Be alert to your surroundings. Your actions can help prevent others from becoming victims. Attempt to keep a safe distance from strangers.
- Trust your instincts. If something or someone makes you uneasy, tell someone, avoid the person or leave the area.
- Encourage friends to travel in pairs or with trusted companions, especially at night or in remote areas. Use the Night Safety Escort Program.
Campus Resources
UC Santa Cruz is a community committed to being inclusive and welcoming of all people. We strive to provide a safe place for everyone to work and learn.
For students, a range of support services is also available through the Cowell Student Health Center including personal counseling through Counseling and Psychological Services and support through a Confidential Victim Advocate.
For employees, the Employee Assistance Program can provide personal counseling and support. More information can be found online.
Report all in-progress crimes by calling 911 from any landline or cell phone. Reports may also be made by utilizing one of the several “blue light,” emergency or elevator phones located throughout the campus.
This bulletin is in compliance with 20 U.S.C. Section 1092 (f), the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act), and the Code of Federal Regulations.
