University Police Sergeant

GENERAL SUMMARY OF POSITION

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 253 of the Acts of 2020, the University Police Sergeant is a regulated position 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, granting the same authority, immunities, and privileges as a duly appointed and qualified sworn police officer 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 Boston and adjacent areas to provide a safe and secure environment. Patrol Sergeants provide first‑line supervision of sworn and/or non‑sworn personnel on shift, ensuring effective performance and compliance with laws and policies. They work independently, assume complete charge in the absence of a superior officer, and conduct inspections, verbal and written reports, and result reviews.

• Supports the University of Massachusetts Boston Police Department mission and policy direction aligned with the University and the Division of Student Affairs mission.
• Exercises police powers under M.G.L. Ch. 75 s. 32A in detecting and apprehending law violators; investigates crimes, accidents, and complaints; provides appellate support as required.
• Patrols university buildings and lands, remaining vigilant for criminal activity and reporting any incidents for prompt action.
• Creates and maintains a sense of safety and security, exemplifying courteous and ethical service; assists persons in danger, victims of crime, accidents, or illness.
• Assists with traffic control, enforces state motor vehicle laws and university by‑laws, rules, and regulations regarding traffic and parking.
• Maintains order at special events, conducts investigations, and submits accurate reports related to the enforcement of state, local, and university by‑laws.
• Ensures all evidence meets chain of custody, accreditation, and legal requirements, and is properly audited and stored.
• Stays fully cognizant of departmental rules and guides patrol personnel in compliance.
• Assists superior officers in supervising all police and security personnel; manages scheduling, shift notices, performance evaluations, and preliminary investigations of citizen complaints.
• Reviews police documentation for accuracy and compliance with criminal, motor vehicle, and traffic laws and university regulations.
• Ensures prisoners in their care are safely transported and processed per department policies.
• Assists command staff in establishing procedures and recommends improvements or changes in department operations.
• Conducts accident and crime investigations, preparing detailed reports including State Motor Vehicle Accident Reports and State Uniform Incident Reports.
• Provides public assistance, including lockout services, escorts, first aid, and vehicle jump‑starts.
• Conducts inspections of personnel and equipment to ensure high standards of appearance and safety.
• Represents the department at community engagement events and meetings.
• Demonstrates or acquires specialized law enforcement skills; participates in community crime prevention programs and university committees.
• Assumes charge of police and security in the absence of command staff, calling off‑duty personnel as needed during emergencies.
• Serves as Campus Security Authority per the Clery Act and is familiar with other federal mandates such as the 2008 Higher Education and Opportunity Act, 2013 Campus Sexual Violence Elimination Act, 2013 Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act, and Title IX.
• Maintains effective relationships with other law enforcement agencies and university departments, furnishing cooperation as required.
• Reports promptly and responds immediately to all emergencies, performing emergency first aid, CPR, Narcan, Epi‑pen, and AED therapy within established guidelines.
• May authorize overtime for assigned personnel within prescribed policies and procedures.
• Performs related work as required in specialized aspects of law enforcement and police operations as assigned.