I just came across an article from the Associated Press describing the expanded reach college law enforcement now has in their surrounding communities. Those of us who have been involved in campus policing and security have witnessed this trend first hand over the years.
Folks in favor of the expansion say it helps institutions of higher education better monitor students who act out off campus, a necessity now that we have the Clery Act and Title IX. A bigger jurisdiction also helps schools with alcohol enforcement and better manage town-gown relations.
The article, however, does mention concerns that some residents of surrounding communities have about the expansion. Some say campus law enforcement doesn’t get as much training as traditional law enforcement. They also express concerns about police departments at private colleges, which aren’t bound by public records laws.
Do you believe the benefits of expanded authority outweigh the negatives?
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