Department Information FAQ
- Are you real police?
- What types of training or certifications do University police officers receive?
- What is the jurisdiction of the University Police?
- When should I contact the University Police and why?
- How do I reach the University Police?
- What happens if I am arrested or get in trouble?
- How do I find out about crimes committed on campus?
- Can I have a car on campus?
- How do the University Police work with other offices on campus?
- What are the most prevalent crimes on campus?
Are you real police?
Yes, the University Police are commissioned and duly sworn police officers who have the same powers and authority to enforce the laws as municipal police officers.
What types of training or certifications do University police officers receive?
All police officers in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania must complete the same standardized police academy training, consisting of 750 hours (5 months) at an approved police academy or public safety training institute, under Act 120 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes.
After completion of the police academy or equivalent, University Police officers recieve their police commissions from the Governor through the Department of Education, and are given their oaths of office before the local district magistrate. They take part in mandatory training including state updates in criminal law, vehicle law, non-lethal self-defense, first aid and CPR, as well as regular training in such topics as human relations issues.
In addition to mandatory training, officers may receive intensive training in their chosen specialty fields, such as drug interdiction, computer crimes, juvenile law, crime prevention, traffic and vehicle laws, firearms, self-defense, ethnic and racially motivated crimes, lethal weapons training, sexual assault investigations, field training, and police supervision and administration.
What is the jurisdiction of the University Police?
The University Police have primary jurisdiction over properties owned by the Commonwealth or owned or controlled by Millersville University. The University Police have joint jurisdition over contiguous campus properties that are bordered on both sides by Millersville University, under an agreement with Millersville Borough and under PA Act 24 C.S.
As of February 1, 2004, the Municipal Police Jurisdiction Act also applies to University Police.
When should I contact the University Police and why?
Police officers are on duty 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and should be contacted to report any suspicious or criminal activity. They must also be notified of any emergencies occuring on campus. Questions regarding motor vehicle or criminal law can be directed to the University Police.
If you are an employee of Millersville University, you are responsible under the Federal Campus Crime Information Act to report known criminal activity to police.
How do I reach the University Police?
The University Police can be reached by dialing 872-3433 for general business and 872-3911 from off campus for police, fire, and ambulance emergencies. The police station, located in the Lebanon House on the west side of campus, is open from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. on weekdays. We're right on North George Street at West Cottage, next to the large brick university sign.
What happens if I am arrested or get in trouble?
All persons on University property, including students, faculty, staff and visitors, are subject to the same laws and regulations. When University police officers issue citations, utilize arrest warrants or make on-view arrests, all the procedures appropriate to the Pennsylvania Crimes Code will be followed. Incidents on campus regarding students may also be handled through internal judicial procedures outlined in the student handbook.
How do I find out about crimes committed on campus?
Millersville University complies with both Act 73 of Pennsylvania and appropriate federal information requirements in releasing crime statistics, such as the Campus Crime Information Act. Crime information is provided through yearly publication of MU's campus safety brochure. It is also available through the University student newspaper, the on-campus radio station, this website, the student newspaper "The Snapper", printed brochures and posters specific to MU, and through timely warning postings and notifications. The University Police Daily Incident Docket is also available to public view.
Can I have a car on campus?
Freshman and sophomore students with less than 60 credits may not have a car on campus unless under exceptional circumstances. Special application in these cases must be made to the University Police and restricted permits are issued each year.
How do the University Police work with other offices on campus?
University Police and Security have direct working agreements with Witmer Infirmary, Residence Life, and the Center for Counseling and Human Development. In addition, officers and staff serve on committees with the Black Student Union, Student Senate, the Sexual Assault Task Force and the Wellness Committee.
What are the most prevalent crimes on campus?
Theft is the number one crime on the M.U. campus. The majority of the thefts take place in the residence halls and are related to unattended property and rooms left unlocked. Thefts from vehicles is also a problem. Finally, thefts of textbooks also causes losses each year ranging to the thousands of dollars. Alcohol-related crimes compose a significant portion of each year's crime report. Underage possession of intoxicating beverages, and public drunkenness make up the highest number of alcohol related crimes.
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