The Stevens Police Department recently released its 2024 Annual Security and Fire Safety Report, which offers critical insights into the university’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a safe campus environment. The report covers crime statistics for 2021-2023 and also outlines comprehensive safety protocols, crime prevention initiatives, and fire safety measures.
The report emphasizes Stevens’ dedication to transparency by presenting detailed statistics on various crimes occurring within the campus’s Clery geography, including crimes such as burglary, motor vehicle theft, and instances of sexual misconduct. The report reflects a slight increase in reported incidents, particularly in cases related to sexual assault, with a spike from zero to four stalking incidents, a trend observed across many university campuses nationwide, according to one article. Additionally, there was an exponential increase in alcohol violations, jumping from 16 to 115 in just one year.
Stevens Campus Police, staffed with 23 armed officers certified by the New Jersey Police Training Commission, provides 24/7 security across the campus. They work closely with local law enforcement, including the Hoboken Police Department and the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, ensuring prompt responses to crimes and emergencies. The report highlights the importance of Campus Security Authorities (CSAs), individuals responsible for reporting Clery Act crimes, such as university officials responsible for student activities.
The report also underscores Stevens’ various crime reporting systems. In addition to direct calls to Campus Police, students can use anonymous reporting tools or the Stevens Guardian app, which enhances personal safety by connecting users directly to campus police through a mobile interface.
Stevens continues to emphasize the critical role of bystander intervention in campus safety. The university’s “Speak Up!” initiative encourages students to act when they witness potential violence, harassment, or other dangerous situations. This program is a central aspect of Stevens’ broader mission to promote a culture of accountability and community care.
The institution also invests in numerous crime prevention programs integral to new student orientation and ongoing student development. These programs, including fire safety drills, active shooter training, and workshops on alcohol and drug prevention, aim to foster a safer environment for all community members.
Fire safety remains a top priority at Stevens, particularly in residential buildings. The report outlines Stevens’ fire safety protocols, including mandatory fire drills in all residence halls and regular maintenance and inspections of fire safety equipment. Students and staff often receive information on fire evacuation procedures, and new students receive fire safety training during their first semester.
Additionally, Stevens ensures campus-wide emergency preparedness through its comprehensive evacuation and emergency response procedures. In conjunction with the Guardian app, the Stevens Alert system provides timely notifications to students and staff about potential emergencies, such as severe weather, active shooter situations, or fires.
In his letter within the report, Chief of Police Timothy J. Griffin reaffirmed Stevens’ commitment to continuous improvements in campus safety. The institution plans to expand its educational programming on sexual misconduct prevention and mental health through required modules for all students to maintain a solid communal knowledge base of support while enhancing its emergency response infrastructure. The ultimate goal is to create a safer, more informed, and more resilient campus community.
The 2024 Annual Security and Fire Safety Report provides valuable information for all members of the Stevens community, ensuring they are well-equipped to contribute to and benefit from a secure campus environment.
