University Police

ECSU Security Update

May 16, 2013

ECSU is committed to creating a safe environment for students, faculty, and staff. Following the recent discovery of operational problems at the Elizabeth City State University Police Department, the University has taken swift action and committed enormous resources to campus safety.

Former Rocky Mount Police Chief John Manley, a highly experienced law enforcement officer with deep experience in Elizabeth City, is serving as Interim Police Chief. The campus has reached out to the Elizabeth City Police Department, which is now providing officers to help patrol the campus and conduct investigations. And officers from other public university campuses are assisting in daily operations.

With these added resources, the University Police Department is operating at full strength. The police are conducting regular patrols across campus and in student dormitories. In recent weeks, the Department has added additional security cameras, security fencing, and instituted ID checks at campus entrances. Police will have additional resources available for as long as they are needed.

The University has also hired a respected national consultant to review and strengthen crime reporting procedures on campus. Margolis Healy and Associates, an experienced firm specializing in campus safety and security, will conduct a thorough, independent assessment to help us identify any reporting problems and help prevent similar problems in the future.

Crime is a fact of life on every college campus, just as it is in every community. ECSU’s highest priority is ensuring that students and faculty can learn and work in a safe and secure environment.

William Smith, Vice Chancellor for Institutional Advancement, is available to answer any questions. He can be reached at wgsmith@mail.ecsu.edu or (252) 335-3966.

The Elizabeth City State University Police Department takes a proactive approach to public safety by providing a high level of service, protection and professionalism to a campus community of more than 4,000 students, faculty and staff. This service is extended to the numerous visitors to the University and local residents.

The University Police Department consists of 11 sworn Police Officers and 13 non-sworn department personnel. Police officers patrol campus grounds in patrol cars, on bicycles and on foot, providing an immediate response to calls for service and a proactive approach to public safety. The Security division provides 24 hour security to classrooms, administrative buildings, parking lots and other areas of the campus. Activity on and around Campus is monitored with a video surveillance network supported by cutting edge technology.

University Police practice and encourage substantial interaction with students, faculty, and staff. Interdiction of criminal activity and enforcement of state laws and ordinances is conducted in such a way as to provide a positive learning experience when possible.
The responsibility of ensuring maximum protection for Elizabeth City State University students is shared by both the University Police Department and the students themselves. The same concept holds true for all members of the University Community. Maintaining a safe and secure atmosphere is an obligation we all share.

In case of power failure, please contact University Police at (252) 335-0476 or (252) 335-4812.