On July 25 Equality Michigan's Department of Victim Services received a report of a pick-up crime. According to the victim, he met the perpetrators through a dating chat-line. The victim alleges that he was beaten and robbed by four African-American men between the ages of 23 and 24 during his first meeting with his date. The perpetrators and victim met in a parking lot in Detroit. No suspects, to Equality Michigan's knowledge, have yet been arrested. When using a dating chat-line or website to meet, take these precautions to protect yourself:
Assess your location
-Especially for the first date, meet in a public, well-lit and secure area such as a restaurant. If you're traveling to visit the person in his or her town, pick a place you're comfortable with when you arrive.
-Tell someone where you are going and how long you will be gone.
-Think about an escape route in advance, in case of danger.
Assess your date
-Make sure you can see your date clearly.
-Engage in small talk to assess any potential risk.
-Be cautious about revealing information that could identify you. For example, if you give someone your listed phone number, he or she can get your real name and street address.
-Let your date know that you have a friend who knows where you are.
-Always go on your 'gut instinct.'
What is gut instinct?
-If you get bad vibes, feel uneasy or get butterflies, your gut instinct is telling you something is wrong, don't go with him or her!
-Trust your judgment at all times.
-Always carry a cell phone and make sure it is easily accessible so you can call 911 immediately if necessary. If finances are tight, purchase a pre-paid cell phone.
At the first sign of trouble…
-Make as much noise as possible. This frightens people away and attracts others' attention. Yell, scream — GET OUT! GET AWAY! FIRE!
-Use a whistle or a personal alarm.
