The University of Massachusetts Boston Police Department is a fully sworn law enforcement agency responsible for maintaining safety and security on the university's campus. Located in Boston, Massachusetts, the department serves a diverse community of students, faculty, and staff. With a strong commitment to community policing, the UMass Boston Police Department prioritizes building trust and fostering positive relationships with the campus community.
Department Overview
The UMass Boston Police Department is comprised of approximately 30 sworn officers, including a chief, deputy chiefs, lieutenants, sergeants, and patrol officers. The department operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is responsible for enforcing federal, state, and local laws, as well as university policies and regulations. The department’s jurisdiction includes the university’s 120-acre campus, which is located on the harbor in Boston.
Services and Programs
The UMass Boston Police Department offers a range of services and programs to support the safety and well-being of the campus community. These include:
- Patrol operations: Uniformed officers patrol the campus on foot, by bicycle, and in marked vehicles to provide a visible presence and respond to emergencies.
- Investigations: The department’s investigative unit conducts thorough investigations into crimes and incidents reported on campus.
- Community policing: The department engages in community outreach and education efforts to build trust and foster positive relationships with students, faculty, and staff.
- Emergency response: The department is equipped to respond to emergencies, including medical emergencies, fires, and hazardous materials incidents.
- Crime prevention: The department offers crime prevention tips and resources to help members of the campus community protect themselves and their property.
The UMass Boston Police Department also participates in various initiatives and programs to support campus safety, including the Clery Act, which requires colleges and universities to collect and report crime statistics, and the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS), which provides a standardized system for collecting and reporting crime data.
Training and Equipment
The UMass Boston Police Department is committed to providing its officers with the training and equipment necessary to effectively serve the campus community. Officers undergo rigorous training in areas such as:
- First aid and emergency medical response
- Crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques
- Firearms training and certification
- Defensive tactics and self-defense
- Cultural diversity and sensitivity training
The department is equipped with modern technology and equipment, including:
| Equipment | Description |
|---|---|
| Patrol vehicles | Marked police cruisers equipped with emergency lighting and communication systems |
| Communication systems | Two-way radios and mobile data terminals for efficient communication and dispatch |
| Body-worn cameras | Cameras worn by officers to capture video and audio evidence |
| First aid equipment | Medical supplies and equipment, including automated external defibrillators (AEDs) |
Statistics and Performance Analysis
The UMass Boston Police Department tracks and analyzes crime statistics to identify trends and areas for improvement. According to the department's annual security report, the campus experienced a significant decrease in reported crimes between 2020 and 2022. The report also highlights the department's efforts to increase community engagement and outreach, including the establishment of a Community Policing Unit and the implementation of a Crime Prevention Program.
The department's performance is also evaluated through various metrics, including response times, crime clearance rates, and customer satisfaction surveys. These metrics provide valuable insights into the department's effectiveness and inform its strategic planning and decision-making processes.
What is the UMass Boston Police Department's emergency contact number?
+The UMass Boston Police Department's emergency contact number is 617-287-1212. In the event of an emergency, callers should dial 911 or the department's emergency number to reach a dispatcher.
How do I report a crime or incident to the UMass Boston Police Department?
+Crimes or incidents can be reported to the UMass Boston Police Department in person, by phone, or online. The department's non-emergency contact number is 617-287-1313. Reports can also be submitted online through the department's website.
The UMass Boston Police Department is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for the campus community. Through its community policing initiatives, comprehensive training programs, and state-of-the-art equipment, the department is well-equipped to respond to the unique needs and challenges of the university community.
