To protect and serve – 24/7, 365

Spring is just around the corner. As we enjoy the change of seasons and spend more time outdoors, we should keep in mind that others will be taking advantage of the warmer weather too, -- and not always in a good way. Spring and summer days bring the possibility of increased crime, so we ask that you be alert to any suspicious behavior on our campus. We'd also like to remind the KUMC community that we're in good hands, 24/7, 365 days a year.

The University of Kansas Police Department operates nonstop to protect and serve the campus. The department is a fully commissioned law enforcement agency, and university police officers are granted authority by Kansas statute with jurisdiction in counties where KU has property. Currently, the department has 33 police officers, 36 safety and security officers and numerous support staff who are the point of origin for all emergency services, as well as a variety of university services after normal business hours.

University of Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center

Just like any other police force, KU police and security officers are required to go through rigorous training. Police officers are required to complete 14 weeks at the KU facility in Hutchinson, and 460 hours of training, plus 14 more weeks of post-academy field officer training. Safety and security officers are required to complete four weeks of training and maintain annual training hours and certifications. The department has its own training sergeant, Taser specialists, and more. All officers participate in active shooter training and can respond confidently in an event like this. 

"We are responsible for the safety of the entire campus," said Donald Holland, police captain. "From escorting someone to his car after hours to responding to a serious threat, we do not take our responsibility lightly. We are an effective and protective force and have been accredited to prove it." 

Recognitions for excellence

The police department is one of only four agencies in the state of Kansas to achieve accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies Inc. This means that our police department met all the national standards set by the National Police Chiefs Association - a prestigious honor and one that is difficult to achieve.

The second recognition was earned by the department's security officers who received a "Program of Distinction" from the International Association for Healthcare Security and Safety. This means that the officers were recognized for going above and beyond national standards and demonstrating high levels of professionalism.

Click here for more information on the police department.

     
Officers Benjamin Oleson and Nicholas Sisti completed training at the University of Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center in Hutchinson, Kan., and graduated on March 22. Not pictured: Officers Sean Rowland and Shawn Crabtree, who also graduated from the academy on March 22.