Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Bridgewater State University have its own police department?

Bridgewater State University wants its students, faculty, staff, and visitors to have the safest environment possible in which to learn, live, work, and enjoy recreational activities. Having our own police department helps to ensure that we can provide a high level of protection and service to the campus community.

Who is in charge of the police department?

David Tillinghast, the department's chief of police, heads the BSU Police Department. The deputy chief, captain, and two shift lieutenants assist Chief Tillinghast in the management of the department.

How many police officers are on staff?

At any one time, there are approximately twenty one full-time sworn officers assigned to the department. Up to fifteen on-call reserve officers fill in when necessary, for a total complement of around 36. The department also employs a variety of support staff members, including communications dispatchers, institutional security officers (ISOs), parking lot monitors, clerical staff, and student employees.

What authority do the officers have?

The officers of the Bridgewater State University Police Department are empowered by state law with full police authority. Officers have the same law enforcement authority as police officers in your city or town.

Who are the officers and what kind of experience and training do they have?

Our officers have diverse backgrounds. Some started in city and town police departments, and others have worked at other colleges and universities. All officers are required to undergo police academy training equivalent to that of city and town officers. Most officers have been trained in one or more of several specialty areas, such as crime prevention, police bicycle patrol, etc. Many officers are certified in emergency medical care to the EMT level, and all are certified in CPR and as first response emergency medical care providers.

What services does the department provide?

In addition to providing a full range of law enforcement services, the department provides programs in crime prevention and personal safety, self-defense, and similar programs. We provide motorist assistance, such as portable jump-starting equipment and lockout service. Our Campus Safety Escort Service is very popular; it augments the college's bus service and provides safe, reliable, on-call transportation on the campus during the evening and early morning hours.

Is the campus safe?

We think that the campus is very safe, but we know that incidents can occur anywhere, at any time, so we work hard to deter incidents, and we respond appropriately when they occur. Community members should be aware of the potential for crime on the campus and take proactive steps to become prepared for campus living.

Can community members carry MACE?

The carrying of weapons, including pepper spray and MACE, is prohibited. We recommend that community members stay aware of their surroundings and perhaps even learn self-defense, but we do not endorse the carrying or use of personal defense weapons.

Who do I call when there is a problem, or when I need information?

You are always welcome to call the office of the chief of police with a problem or to get information.

How can community members better protect themselves on the campus?

The most important thing community members can do is to be aware of their surroundings, and not fall into the trap of believing that no crime can occur on a college campus. We don't want our community members to be paranoid about the potential for crime, just aware, and prepared.

Last Modified: July 29, 2010