Campus Police Perspective on Primary Campus Threats and Officer Preparation

• In Event: Posters II

Abstract

The purpose of the research included the consideration of the perspective of the campus police officer in the translation of their duty to the contemporary college campus. Using social learning and social structure theories as a lens, the perception of campus threats and necessary preparations were recorded and analyzed to identify variations in structure and culture that might influence policing outcomes. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with campus police officers, direct observation of campus police officer duties, and student questionnaires. Results of the study reflect a unique translation of policing duties on the college campus, including advanced levels of mentoring and efforts to support interoperability. Findings suggest a unique policing dynamic created by campus police officer perception of student population and preparations for policing duty on the college campus.

Author

• Katy Cathcart, University of Colorado Colorado Springs