College campuses across Texas are patrolled by their own police departments, but many students and parents are unsure about the extent of their authority. Whether you’re attending a public university or a private college, it’s important to understand that campus police in Texas are fully empowered law enforcement officers. They can make arrests, issue citations, and investigate crimes—just like city or county police.
If you’re a student facing criminal charges, it’s crucial to take the situation seriously. A campus arrest can lead to both legal consequences and disciplinary action from your school.
What Do Campus Police Do?
Campus police officers play an important role in maintaining a safe environment for students, which means that they function like other law enforcement agencies. However, unlike state or local law enforcement, campus police powers must be granted and defined by some type of state authority. Campus police departments are typically responsible for:
- Dealing with violations of campus, local, state, or federal law
- Notifying the university of potential or actual instances of criminal activity
- Responding to mental health and physical health emergencies
- Patrolling campus property on foot, bike, or squad cars
- Performing regular security checks of campus buildings
- Conducting investigations of reported crimes on campus
The Authority of Campus Police At Public Universities in Texas
Under Section 51.203 of the Texas Education Code, campus police officers at public colleges and universities are granted the same powers, privileges, and immunities as other law enforcement agencies. This authority includes the power to make arrests and to enforce all traffic laws on streets and highways.
The primary jurisdiction of campus police includes all property that is owned, leased, rented or otherwise under the control of the college or university that employs the officer. Additionally, a campus police officer has full law enforcement authority outside of his or her primary jurisdiction if:
- is summoned by another law enforcement agency to provide assistance;
- is assisting another law enforcement agency; or
- is otherwise performing his duties as a peace officer for the college or university that employs the peace officer
The Authority of Campus Police At Private Universities in Texas
Texas Education Code Section 51.212 authorizes private colleges and universities to employ police officers for the purpose of enforcing state and local law on their campuses. Campus police officers at private institutions of higher learning have full law enforcement authority if the officer:
- is on the property under the control and jurisdiction of their employer,
- is performing duties assigned to the officer by the institution and within a county in which the institution has land
- or is otherwise authorized by a mutual assistance agreement between the private university and the police department of a local municipality.
Campus police officers must be certified under the requirements of the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement, which set the minimum training, certification, and educational standards for all law enforcement in the state.
What Happens If You’re Arrested by Campus Police?
Common offenses that lead to campus arrests include:
If you’re facing charges, it’s crucial to seek legal representation immediately to protect your rights and future.
Potential Consequences of Being Arrested by Campus Police
An arrest by campus police can lead to serious and lasting consequences. Legally, you may face criminal prosecution in state court, which could result in fines, probation, a permanent criminal record, or even jail time, depending on the offense. Academically, your school may also launch a disciplinary process that runs independently of the criminal case.
This could lead to suspension, expulsion, or loss of scholarships and housing privileges. Beyond school, a conviction can affect your future job prospects, graduate school admissions, and professional licensing. Even a seemingly minor incident can have long-term effects, so it’s critical to understand your rights and seek legal representation immediately.
Contact an Experienced Houston Criminal Defense Attorney
If you’re a college student who has been charged with a crime, contact experienced Houston criminal defense attorney Ned Barnett for help. Ned Barnett is a board certified criminal defense lawyer who will fight to protect your reputation, rights, and future. He has extensive experience defending college students charged with crimes and he will work tirelessly to achieve the best outcome possible in your case.
Contact the Law Office of Ned Barnett today at (713) 222-6767 to schedule a free case evaluation.