A Florida family has made the difficult decision to not send their teenage son to a California college after a distressing incident. The family's car was broken into and robbed while they were moving their son into his dorm, resulting in the loss of valuable belongings and important documents.
The incident occurred in Oakland, California, where the family had traveled to enroll their son at Lincoln University. After the robbery, the family has decided to withdraw their son's enrollment from the university.
According to the family, they had parked their rental car near the university and went to a nearby restaurant. Upon returning, they discovered that the car's windows had been smashed, and their suitcases, containing significant items such as passports, social security cards, and personal documents, had been stolen.
The family also lost a sleep apnea machine that was left in the car. The robbery, known as 'bipping,' involved the use of a tool to break car windows quietly and quickly to steal items from unattended vehicles.
Despite contacting the police, the family expressed frustration at the lack of immediate response and assistance. Feeling unsafe in the area, they have decided to bring their son back to Florida.
While the city of Oakland has reported lower crime rates recently, incidents like these highlight the importance of taking precautions and being vigilant, especially when it comes to safeguarding personal belongings.
Universities like U.C. Berkeley emphasize the importance of educating students about safety practices and warn against leaving valuables in cars. It is crucial for students and families to be aware of their surroundings and take necessary steps to protect themselves from such unfortunate events.
Ultimately, this unfortunate incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety and security, especially in unfamiliar environments. It is essential for individuals to remain cautious and proactive in safeguarding their belongings and well-being.
