University Police Sergeant

General Summary of Position:

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 253 of the Acts of 2020 ("An Act Relative to Justice, Equity and Accountability in Law Enforcement in the Commonwealth"), the position of:
The University Police Sergeant position is regulated by the Massachusetts Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST). University Police Sergeants are appointed as sworn police officers pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws chapter 75, section 32A and chapter 90C which grants University Police Sergeants the same authority, immunities and privileges as a duly appointed and qualified sworn police officer acting elsewhere in the Commonwealth.

Under the general supervision of the University Police Lieutenant, a Sergeant patrols assigned areas of property used, owned or occupied by the University of Massachusetts and areas adjacent to the university to provide a safe and secure environment for all members of the University community by means of an alert and vigilant preventive patrol. Patrol Sergeants provide first-line supervision of the activities of sworn and/or non-sworn personnel on a shift, who are engaged in patrol duty, bike patrol, criminal investigations, community relations, crime prevention activities, and in-service training activities.

An employee in this class frequently participates in the work performed by subordinate officers and is responsible for performing related duties as required. The Patrol Sergeant's primary responsibility is to ensure the effective performance of duty by patrol personnel. Patrol Sergeants work independently in performing regularly assigned duties and assume complete charge in the event of the absence of a superior officer.

Work is performed in accordance with federal, state, and local laws as well as university and departmental policies, procedures, and general orders. Work is reviewed by inspection, through verbal and written reports, and by results achieved.

Essential Functions:

A Patrol Sergeant may be called upon to do any or all of the following essential duties:

• Supports the University of Massachusetts Boston Police Department mission and the policies and procedures in support of that mission, which is aligned with the University and the Division of Student Affairs' mission.
• Exercises police powers under M.G.L. Ch. 75 s. 32A in the detection and apprehension of law violators; investigates crimes, accidents, and complaints. Identifies criminal offenders, makes apprehensions when necessary, and participates in subsequent court proceedings as required.
• Patrols buildings and lands of the University ensuring the protection of persons and property, being observant for criminal activity, or anything which might endanger life, health and safety or result in theft or damage to property and reports same for the appropriate action to be taken.
• Creates and maintains a sense of safety and security within the University and adjacent areas enhancing public interest of law enforcement and for the University by constant example of courteous and ethical service. Aids and assists all persons in danger of physical harm or victims of crime, accidents, or illness.
• Assists in the maintenance of traffic control on lands of the University; enforces State motor vehicle laws, as well as University by-laws, rules and regulations regarding traffic and parking.
• Maintains order at the scene of special events, whether scheduled or unscheduled, upon the lands of the University. Conducts investigations and submits necessary accurate reports as related to the enforcement of State, Local and University by-laws, ordinances, and regulations.
• Ensures that all evidence gathered, i.e., drugs and other controlled substances, blood, gun evidence, etc. are meeting chain of custody standards, comply with accreditation standards, adhere to legal requirements, and are properly audited and safely maintained.
• Be fully cognizant of current departmental rules, regulations, orders, policies and procedures, particularly those that affect their area of responsibility, and instruct and guide patrol personnel in their compliance.
• Assists superior officers in supervision of all police and security personnel; reviews subordinates' work for proper performance and conformance with laws, rules, regulations, instructions, and procedures; manages scheduling and time off request, prepares shift notices and assignments; conducts performance evaluations; conduct initial investigations on citizen complaints; makes recommendations in matters concerning employee discipline and retention.
• Reviews police documentation including incident and accident reports and daily logs for accuracy and compliance with criminal, motor vehicle, and traffic laws and with university regulations.
• Ensures that all prisoners in their care and custody are safely transported and processed in accordance with department policies and procedures.
• Assists command staff in establishing procedures; makes recommendations regarding improvements or changes in…