Field Operations
Led by Assistant Chief Ed Costello, the Field Operations Division is the crucial service delivery team that provides patrol operations 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It comprises two sections: Patrol Operations and Criminal Investigations.
Meet the Assistant Chief of Police for Field Operations
Ed Costello serves as the Assistant Chief of Field Operations for the Texas A&M University Police Department. The Field Operations Division comprises the Patrol and Criminal Investigations Sections, which are uniformed and manage day-to-day operations in the field.
The Division also provides 24/7 patrol services, responds to emergencies, and handles calls for service and investigations. Its responsibilities include proactive campus patrols to prevent crime, addressing issues as they arise, investigating incidents, making arrests, providing safety escorts, serving as building liaisons, conducting safety programs, and fostering community partnerships.
At the Texas A&M University Police Department, we aim to ensure safety, security, and fair, impartial treatment for all. The Field Operations Division is committed to demonstrating these values through professionalism and excellence, guided by our core principles of integrity, respect, ethics, and dedication. Here in Aggieland, we expect our employees to embody and uphold the University's core values in their interactions with all faculty, staff, students, and visitors. Thanks, and Gig ‘Em!"
About Field Operations
The Field Operations Division is a key service delivery team within the Texas A&M University Police Department, providing patrol operations 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. This division is responsible for responding to 911 emergencies, handling all calls for service, and conducting investigative follow-ups.
Additionally, the Field Operations Division actively patrols the campus to prevent crime, address issues, investigate crimes and vehicle accidents, make arrests when necessary, offer safety escorts, serve as building liaisons, conduct safety programs, and foster partnerships within the campus and the surrounding community.
Patrol
The Patrol section is the department's core and the most visible to the public. This section is primarily responsible for maintaining campus safety. Texas A&M University police officers patrol the campus 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to prevent crime, preserve peace, and protect lives and property by enforcing Texas state laws and Texas A&M University Rules and Regulations.
Criminal Investigations
The Criminal Investigations section within the Texas A&M University Police Department focuses on the thorough investigation of criminal activity that occurs on or near campus. This section collects evidence, interviews witnesses, and works closely with other law enforcement agencies to solve crimes. Their work is crucial in maintaining safety and security within the university community. The investigators are trained professionals who handle various cases, including theft, assault, and other offenses, ensuring that justice is served and preventative measures are implemented to safeguard students and staff.
For questions or information about the Criminal Investigations section, please contact Lieutenant Clayton Bower.
ACES Team
The University Police Department has partnered with University Health Services to launch the Assistance, Connection, and Engagement Services (ACES) program, an innovative initiative that pairs police officers with licensed professional counselors to address incidents involving student mental health challenges effectively.
The ACES program is designed to enhance both the well-being and safety of our student community by providing immediate mental health support during law enforcement interactions. Our trained co-responders thoughtfully assess situations, offer critical assistance, and connect students with available resources.
Leaders within UPD have witnessed the positive impact of the ACES program, which facilitates quicker access to counseling for students, particularly those who may feel reluctant to approach law enforcement. This initiative underscores UPD's dedication to handling mental health crises with care and to equipping officers with the training needed to support students facing mental health issues.
Victims' Advocate
Victims' Advocate is a service offered through Criminal Investigations to support students, faculty, and staff who are dealing with the traumatic effects of being a crime victim, even if the crime occurred off campus. We also assist citizens and visitors of the Texas A&M community who have been victimized while here.
To schedule an appointment, crime victims may contact the Advocate by phone or email during business hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. However, they must be aware that email communications cannot guarantee confidentiality. Walk-in appointments are also welcome if the Advocate is available.