Arming MCLA Campus Police Officers: Background and Considerations
On February 2, 2012, following 10 months of research into best practices and training standards, and a process of campus discussion and engagement, the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) Board of Trustees voted to authorize the arming of MCLA's Campus Police Officers within 6-12 months.
For background on this decision, please see the following:
President Grant's February 3, 2012, statement on the Board's decision
Minutes of the January 17, 2012, Meeting of the MCLA Board of Trustees Executive Committee
Attention Campus Community:
The MCLA Department of Public Safety - Campus Police is now located at:
Department of Public Safety Headquarters
277 Ashland Street
North Adams, MA 01247
Please visit us at our new location 24 hours a day or contact us using the information below:
Business Phone: (413) 662-5283 or (413) 662-5284
Emergencies: 5100 on Campus or 911
Public Safety
In any large organization, there is always concern for safety regulations and policies designed to protect and serve members of the community. The Department of Public Safety's Campus Police Officers and employees play an important role in this area by helping to maintain an environment that is safe and conducive for living and learning for all of our community members and guests.
All officers of the department:
- Are Sworn and Warranted Police Officers
- Are Police Academy & Field Training Officer Trained
- Are Certified First Responders - CPR/AED, First Aid, Medical Emergencies
- Receive Yearly In-service Training
- Have Areas of Specialty Training: Emergency Medical Technician, Field Training Officer, Defensive Tactics, Computer Internet Investigations, Criminal Investigations, Bike Patrol, CPR/AED Instructor, Child Safety Seat Restraint Instructor, Evidence/Property Control, Fire Safety Educator
MCLA campus and resident areas are patrolled by Campus Police Officers on foot, by bicycle, and in a cruiser 24 hours a day/year round. With 24 hour coverage, they are able to provide assistance at any time for the following emergencies:
- Reporting a Fire
- Saving a Life
- Stopping a Crime
- Major Maintenance Problems When Maintenance Staff Cannot Be Reached.
- Any Problems Related to Health, Safety, or the Protection of Life and Property Needing Immediate Attention
The Department of Public Safety is also responsible for:
- Enforcing Local and State Laws and Ordinances
- Enforcing College Rules and Regulations
- Investigating/Documenting Reports of Crime, Motor Vehicle Accidents, Injuries and College Violations
- Campus Emergency Reponse
- Management of Critical Incidents
- Identifying Life Safety Issues
- Crime Statistics Documentation
