Several universities on urban campuses around the United States have expanded the jurisdiction of their campus police in order to increase security in surrounding neighborhoods. Temple, Kent State, and Wayne State Universities have broadened their officers' authority off-campus, hoping to increase student security while relieving overburdened police departments. For about a decade, Temple University and the University of Pennsylvania have shared a dispatch system with Philadelphia police. This has allowed the schools and city police to monitor calls and decide which force is best equipped to respond. Wayne State University has been able to take over for police in Detroit since the city declared bankruptcy in July. In the event of an emergency, residents in the area often contact the Wayne State officers first, rather than call 911.
Most recently, the University of Maryland's agreement with Prince George's County Police Department has allowed campus police to patrol surrounding neighborhoods with the same authority they have on campus. The university has also hired new officers, installed more cameras around campus, and boosted mental health resources. A new "Be Smart, Be Safe" campaign this fall will spread the word about the new security measures.
Other schools considering expanding the reach of their campus police include George Washington University, where D.C. residents have clashed with students over late-night parties and other issues. The proposal is drawing debate from those who question whether campus police officers should have arrest powers in public areas and how they would enforce a school's code of conduct in such places. GW says it is stressing improved neighbor relations to justify the expanded jurisdiction, rather than as a student safety measure. The university may join other D.C. schools, such as Howard, Georgetown, and American Universities, as well as the University of the District of Columbia, to submit a possible D.C. Council proposal this fall.