...It includes decentralized police management, informal professional leadership, positive peer influence and the empowerment of our members to use skills, knowledge and values in the decision making process. This is an approach,that not only identifies problems, but also uses numerous community partnerships in the development of solutions.
     What are the basic goals of the University Police Department? To support and enhance a safe and accessible environment which will allow all of us to enjoy our community and . . . to further the university mission of providing academic excellence. Our motto, "Protecting Our Future" is taken seriously. We believe it identifies a clear sense of our responsibility.
     The University Police Department is a full service police agency, which is certified by the California Department of Justice. It includes 96 members with a broad range of both sworn and civilian responsibilities. It provides emergency response, investigative services, crime prevention services, uniformed police patrol as well as a 9-1-1 communications center which provides Emergency Medical Dispatch. Its police officers have the same legal authority and responsibility as municipal, county and other state law enforcement agencies. Officers are empowered to enforce the regulations of the university, the laws of the local community and the laws of the state and federal government.
     The University Police Department also provides, or participates in, many services and efforts related to parking and alternative transportation. This includes operations, enforcement, maintenance and facility design for parking services as well as traffic planning, shuttles, Van pools, regional bus services and other modes of travel as it impacts alternative transportation. Our efforts are to reduce parking demand and increase the use of alternative transportation to enhance our quality of life and the environment. Note: Parking availability, while substantially better than most communities is at a premium. The use of alternative transportation is always encouraged.
     The University Police Department is also responsible for the coordination of an average of 300 university events per year that bring approximately 500,000 visitors to the community. This includes such examples as concerts, commencement, sports venues, Open House as well as many others. Truly a sign of an active, energetic and dynamic community.
     Finally, I hope that you will join with the members of the University Police Department and help us provide a quality and safe environment for all. Your participation is of utmost importance.

For Current Events and Safety Tips call 756-NEWS.

William Watton
Chief of Police
University Police Department
California Polytechnic State University
San Luis Obispo
805.756.6652

Back to Home Page