Security, Compliance and Professional Standards
The Security, Compliance and Professional Standards Division at Texas A&M University outlines the security services provided to the University and RELLIS campuses. It consists of three main sections: Security, Compliance and Professional Standards. Security officers are deployed throughout the campus to support students, staff, and visitors, primarily focusing on crime prevention and promptly reporting emergencies or hazards.
Meet the Assistant Chief of Police for Security, Compliance and Professional Standards
Kary Shaffer is the Assistant Chief of Police for Security, Compliance and Professional Standards, a division responsible for implementing security policies, ensuring compliance with professional standards, and enhancing the safety and well-being of the campus community.
This division is deeply committed to promoting best practices in law enforcement, providing professional training for personnel, and engaging in community outreach. These efforts are all in service of our primary goal: maintaining a safe environment that supports learning and personal development at the university.
Kary Shaffer
Assistant Chief of Police for Security, Compliance and Professional StandardsOur Division is dedicated to ensuring that the Texas A&M University Police Department maintains a safe and secure environment for students, faculty, staff, and visitors on campus. We fulfill this responsibility by adhering to the highest professional standards in campus law enforcement and protective services. Our commitment includes transparent evaluation processes and accreditation programs to ensure our operations meet recognized safety, ethics, and professionalism standards."
Accreditation
The Accreditation Section oversees the department's ongoing efforts to maintain compliance with the standards set forth by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA). This nationally recognized accreditation process ensures the department operates in accordance with best practices in law enforcement and public safety.
Key responsibilities of the Accreditation Section include:
- Policy Development: Drafting and revising departmental policies to align with CALEA's rigorous standards.
- Compliance Monitoring: Continuously review operations and procedures to ensure compliance with established policies.
- Timeline Management: Coordinating and tracking required activities to meet accreditation deadlines.
- Documentation & Evidence Collection: Gathering and maintaining detailed records demonstrating compliance with CALEA benchmarks.
The Accreditation Section is vital in enhancing transparency, accountability, and service quality within the department by upholding these standards.
Clery Act Compliance
The Clery Division oversees all aspects of the department's compliance with the Clery Act. The Clery Act Compliance unit ensures that the University Police Department complies with the Clery Act. It includes maintaining the Crime Log, evaluating reports of criminal activity for inclusion in Clery statistics, compiling statistics for Clery-reportable crimes, and assisting in drafting Texas A&M University's Annual Security Report.
Professional Standards
Professional Standards are the foundation for ethical conduct and operational excellence within the Texas A&M University Police Department. These standards encompass comprehensive guidelines, policies, and best practices that govern the behavior and performance of all personnel.
They are designed to:
- Promote professionalism in every interaction with the campus community.
- Ensure integrity in decision-making and law enforcement practices.
- Foster accountability through consistent evaluation and oversight.
By adhering to these standards, the department reinforces its commitment to building trust and maintaining a safe, respectful environment for students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
Security
The Security Section provides essential contracted services that support the safety and well-being of the Texas A&M University and RELLIS campuses. Security Officers are strategically stationed across key locations to offer visible, proactive protection and assistance.
Services include:
- Coverage for Residence Life dormitories and apartments.
- Security presence at University Libraries, the Veterinary Complex, and the Engineering Complex.
- Support for high-profile sites such as the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum.
Security Officers are trained to:
- Respond swiftly to emergencies and hazardous situations.
- Assist students, staff, and visitors with directions, concerns, and safety needs.
- Engage in crime prevention through active patrols and community interaction.
Their presence contributes to a secure campus atmosphere where learning, research, and community engagement can thrive.