Patrol

The Rice University Police Department patrol division consists of three shifts; the day shift, which runs from 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM, the evening shift from 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM, and the night shift on duty from 10:00 PM – 6:00 AM. Thirteen commissioned police officers and four non-commissioned security officers staff these three shifts, providing for the safety and security of the university community on a twenty-four basis. One of the primary functions of the patrol division is to act as a visible deterrent to those who would attempt to commit a criminal act within the confines of the university. Two of the tools used to perform this task are vehicle and bicycle patrols. It is not uncommon to see one of the University Police Department’s vehicles on the inner loop or a bicycle in the Academic Quadrangle.

The responsibilities of each shift are unique to their tour of duty. In addition to reports of criminal activity requiring investigation on all three shifts, the day shift is busy with much administrative hustle and bustle, and a steady influx of visitors to the campus. The evening shift has a wide range of duties in addition to criminal investigations, some of which include traffic control associated with events, rendering assistance to those in need of key service and motorist assistance, and acting as a deterrent to would be criminals attempting to victimize faculty, staff, or students. Also assigned to the evening shift, are four of the non-commissioned security officers employed by the department. They are tasked with many of the public service functions of the police department, thereby freeing the police officers to focus on crime prevention and protection of the university community. The night shift is entrusted with the security of the campus and all police activity during late night hours. As do the other two, this shift patrols the campus, conducts criminal investigations, in addition to securing/opening the campus entrances each night and morning. The remaining two non-commissioned security officers are assigned to this shift to assist with the closing and opening of the gates, key services, and security escorts.

Together, the patrol division and the college officer patrol make a valuable contribution to the quality of life that IS Rice University.

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Rice University Police Department