Q: Can I call university police if I have a non-emergency issue?

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.

  • Faculty and staff members
    • Stay Informed, Stay Safe

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

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    • Increased sense of safety and security for students and staff
    • Q: What kind of crimes do university police investigate?

      Q: Are university police the same as campus security?

      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
    • Balancing public safety with students' rights and freedoms
    • 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.

      A Growing Concern for Students and Families

    The Trend in University Police Departments

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

    • Access to specialized services such as victim support and counseling
    • Common Questions About University Police

    • Myth: University police only respond to emergencies.
    • This topic is relevant for anyone connected to Lamar University, including:

    • Alumni and community members
    • 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.

      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.

    • Prospective students and their families
    • Reality: University police are available 24/7 to respond to both emergency and non-emergency issues.
    • 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.

    • Improved response times to emergencies
    • Common Misconceptions About University Police

    • 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.
    • Enhanced collaboration with local law enforcement agencies
    • Managing conflicts between different campus groups and stakeholders
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          How University Police Work

        However, like any organization, university police departments are not immune to risks and challenges, such as:

        Who This Topic is Relevant For

      • Myth: University police have no jurisdiction off campus.
      • 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.

        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.

        Opportunities and Realistic Risks

    • Limited resources and budget constraints