• Faculty and staff members
  • Opportunities and Realistic Risks

    Stay Informed, Stay Safe

    As college students across the United States return to campus, concerns about safety and security are on the rise. With a growing number of universities investing in campus police departments, it's essential for students and families to understand the role of university police in preventing crime and ensuring student success. Lamar University, like many institutions, has a dedicated police department that plays a crucial part in maintaining a safe learning environment.

    Who This Topic is Relevant For

    Staying Safe at Lamar University: Understanding the Role of the University Police in Preventing Crime and Ensuring Student Success

  • Increased sense of safety and security for students and staff
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    In recent years, the number of university police departments has increased significantly. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, the number of colleges and universities with on-campus police departments rose from 25% in 2007 to 54% in 2017. This trend is driven by concerns about campus safety, as well as growing expectations from students, parents, and the broader community.

  • Improved response times to emergencies
  • Limited resources and budget constraints
  • Q: Are university police the same as campus security?

    Common Misconceptions About University Police

    Yes, university police are available 24/7 to respond to non-emergency issues, such as reporting a lost or stolen item or requesting assistance with a safety concern.

    While both university police and campus security are responsible for maintaining a safe campus environment, they have different roles and responsibilities. Campus security is often focused on providing services such as escorting students across campus, while university police have law enforcement powers and investigate crimes.

      Q: What kind of crimes do university police investigate?

      Having a dedicated university police department can bring numerous benefits, including:

      University police investigate a range of crimes, including property theft, burglary, assault, and harassment. They also respond to emergencies such as fires, medical emergencies, and natural disasters.

      Common Questions About University Police

      A Growing Concern for Students and Families

      The Trend in University Police Departments

    • Myth: University police have no jurisdiction off campus.
    • Enhanced collaboration with local law enforcement agencies
    • University police departments are responsible for maintaining law and order on campus, much like local police departments do in cities and towns. However, their role is unique in that they must balance the need for public safety with the need to respect students' rights and freedoms. University police often work closely with local law enforcement agencies to share intelligence and best practices, and may also have specialized units for tasks such as emergency response and victim services.

    • Managing conflicts between different campus groups and stakeholders
      • However, like any organization, university police departments are not immune to risks and challenges, such as:

      • Myth: University police only respond to emergencies.
      • By understanding the role of university police in preventing crime and ensuring student success, you can take steps to stay safe on campus. Whether you're a current student, prospective student, or simply a member of the broader community, it's essential to be aware of the resources and services available to you. Learn more about Lamar University's police department and the services they offer, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

      • Current students
    • Reality: While university police primarily focus on campus crimes, they may also have jurisdiction off campus in certain circumstances, such as when a crime is committed by a student or employee.
    • Access to specialized services such as victim support and counseling
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    If you want to stay informed about campus safety and security, we recommend following the university's police department on social media, attending safety workshops and events, and staying up-to-date with campus news and announcements.

  • Prospective students and their families
  • Q: Can I call university police if I have a non-emergency issue?

    How University Police Work

  • Balancing public safety with students' rights and freedoms
  • This topic is relevant for anyone connected to Lamar University, including:

  • Reality: University police are available 24/7 to respond to both emergency and non-emergency issues.
  • Alumni and community members