Boston University Police Department: Serving and Protecting the BU Community

The Boston University Police Department (BUPD) plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of the university's diverse community. With a strong commitment to community policing, the BUPD strives to create an inclusive environment that reflects the values of Boston University. This article delves into the BUPD's operations, services, and its dedication to fostering a safe and supportive campus for all.

A Professional and Inclusive Force

The Boston Police Department, including the BUPD, emphasizes a partnership with the community to combat crime. The BUPD aims to mirror the residents it serves, fostering a professional culture and inclusive environment. This commitment is reflected in the department's efforts to recruit officers who share its values and can contribute to creating a welcoming and equitable environment for all members of the BU community.

In recent years, Boston University has intensified its efforts to cultivate a more inclusive environment. The BUPD actively promotes initiatives to ensure the department reflects the diversity of the City of Boston. Excellence within the BUPD is measured by how fully its members embody the principles of inclusivity, equity, and diversity, aligning with the University's Diversity Statement. The BUPD seeks officers with a proven track record of engaging in activities, training, and development programs that foster and maintain an inclusive and equitable working environment.

Services and Responsibilities

The Boston University Police Department is a full-time, highly trained professional law enforcement agency comprising over 50 sworn officers. The BUPD provides a wide array of services to the Boston University community, including:

Responding to and investigating criminal activity
Crime prevention and awareness programs
Critical incident response and management
Personal safety education
Medical assists

With an overarching commitment to community policing, members of the Boston University Police Department are committed to the safety, security and support of the 45,000 plus members of community, which is comprised of students, staff, and faculty from more than 134 countries and cultures.

Jurisdiction and Authority

The Boston University Police Department (BUPD) is the primary law-enforcement agency of Boston University and provides services to more than 41,000 students, faculty, and staff on 132 acres (0.53 km2) of University property and surrounding streets. The BUPD headquarters are located at 32 Harry Agganis Way adjacent to Nickerson Field, in what was once the Braves Field ticket office.

All Boston University Police Officers hold commissions as deputy sheriffs in Suffolk, Middlesex, and Norfolk Counties, granting them arrest powers throughout Boston, Cambridge, and Brookline, where BU has facilities.

Staying Informed: BUPD Advisories and Alerts

The BUPD actively communicates with the Boston University community to provide timely information about potential safety concerns and crime prevention tips. These advisories are disseminated through various channels, including email alerts and the BUPD website. Examples of recent advisories include:

Winter Break Safety: Reminders to students to secure their on- and off-campus housing by locking doors and windows before leaving for winter break.
Theft Prevention: Alerts regarding recent incidents of bicycle and scooter theft near campus, with recommendations for securing personal property.
Vehicle Safety: Reports of thefts from motor vehicles parked in the area of lower Bay State Rd. near 610 Beacon St.
Burglary Awareness: Information about burglaries that occurred on campus, including details such as an unknown person entered the residence through the front door at 10 Buick St.
Fraud Warnings: Reports of fraudulent activity targeting parents of Boston University student athletes, involving telephone calls from individuals impersonating BUPD officers.
General Safety Concerns: Information regarding concerning incidents on campus to help the community make informed decisions and stay safe.
Sexual Assault Awareness: Updates on sexual assault incidents reported to the Boston University Police, highlighting the partnership between the community and the police department in promoting safety.

Partnering with the Community

The BUPD emphasizes the importance of community involvement in maintaining a safe campus environment. The department encourages individuals to report any suspicious activity or crimes, assuring them that their identity will be kept confidential. This collaborative approach strengthens the BUPD's ability to address safety concerns effectively.

The Boston Police Department is dedicated to working in partnership with the community to fight crime. Through community policing, we want to be a reflection of the residents we serve. We aim to create a professional culture and inclusive environment that mirrors the best of all of us. A civilian career in law enforcement is a great opportunity to give back to your community through your contributions to the Boston Police. Do you know anything about a crime that has happened, or a crime that could happen? We only want your information, not your identity. Want to read the latest news, announcements, and stories from the Boston Police Department? For emergencies, please call 911.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

Recognizing the importance of diversity and inclusion, the BUPD has implemented various initiatives to foster a welcoming and equitable environment for all members of the Boston University community. These initiatives include:

Recruiting officers who reflect the diversity of the City of Boston
Providing diversity and inclusion training for all officers
Engaging in community outreach programs to build relationships with diverse student groups and organizations
Actively working to ensure that all members of the community feel safe and supported

Requirements for Joining the BUPD

Individuals interested in pursuing a career with the Boston University Police Department must meet certain requirements, including:

An Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree is preferred.
Eligibility for appointment as a Special State Police Officer in accordance with M.G.L. ch.22 s.
Applicants who completed an out-of-state recruit academy must apply for a permanent exemption through the Massachusetts State Police.
Ability to work all shifts, including holidays and weekends, as shift work is subject to collective bargaining agreements between the University and the Boston University Police Patrol Officers Association.
Compliance with Boston University’s COVID-19 Vaccination and Booster Requirement within 30 days of date of hire, including uploading vaccine documentation or requesting a medical or religious exemption.

The Boston University Police Department is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military service, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, or because of marital, parental, or veteran status.

Leadership and Structure

In 2006, Boston University hired the superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police, Thomas G. Robbins, as the chief of the BUPD.

Commitment to Safety and Security

Safety, Security & Preparedness, including the Boston University Police Department (BUPD), is dedicated to protecting and serving all members of the University. While federal immigration enforcement policies have created uncertainty and concern on campus, we want to reaffirm to you our longstanding commitment to your safety and well-being.

Read also: History of the BU Bridge

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