History of Enhancements to Campus Security

Syracuse University is committed to providing a safe and secure educational and working environment for the campus community. From 1964 through 1981, SU Public Safety officers were “deputized” by the Syracuse Police Department for the purpose of providing enhanced security services to the University community. This special “deputization” empowered selected Public Safety officers with authorities similar to police officers, which included carrying firearms. However, in the early 1980s a legal opinion from the Office of the New York State Attorney General indicated that local law enforcement did not have the authority to “deputize” individuals. Consequently, SU’s Public Safety officers lost their deputized status, thereby limiting their ability to respond to campus safety issues.

Over the years, SU has continued to pursue alternative avenues to better address the safety and security needs of the University community. In 1995, state legislation was passed that allowed any private, independent college or university to obtain enhanced authorities for its public safety officers. This law allowed SU to change the status of its Public Safety officers from that of a citizen to one of enhanced authority while functioning on campus property. This enhanced authority included but was not limited to: the power to arrest based on probable cause; the right to confiscate stolen property; and authorization to carry and use a baton and noxious materials. Enhanced authority also required additional training and background checks.

Since that time, the University has continued to develop strategies to respond to identified safety and security needs. Examples of recent initiatives include:

• Reorganization of the Residential Security Aide Program
• Establishment of the Neighborhood Safety Patrol off campus
• Increased Department of Public Safety staffing, a DPS station and a Welcome Center at South Campus
• Improved campus lighting and increased presence of emergency “blue light” stations
• Creation of the Shuttle U Home (SU Home) service
• Founding of a College Crime Watch chapter (a recognized student organization)

Due to an increased focus on national security and notable criminal incidents that have occurred in the University Hill area in recent years, SU has sought peace officer status for its Public Safety officers. The New York State Senate passed the bill on May 28, 2003, and the Assembly passed the bill on June 9, 2003, with the support of Sen. John A. DeFrancisco (R-I-C, Syracuse), Assemblyman William B. Magnarelli (D, Syracuse) and Assemblywoman Joan K. Christensen (D, Syracuse). Gov. George E. Pataki signed the legislation on Oct. 7, 2003.