Operations Division

The Oakland University Police Department utilizes several different methods of patrol throughout the campus and surrounding areas. One of the more specialized methods is the bike patrol unit, which is currently operated by several highly-motivated sworn police personnel. All officers selected for this unit are required to be trained and certified by an accredited bike patrol school. The bike patrol unit has multiple benefits, such as the ability to greatly increase the extent of patrols. Areas such as sidewalks, wooded trails, and in-between buildings are all much more accessible by a patrol bike than a patrol vehicle. In many situations, response time by OU Police is also decreased due to the ability to "short-cut" certain avenues that would also be inaccessible by a patrol vehicle. Furthermore, the bike patrol unit provides the Oakland University community the opportunity to approach and interact with OU Police officers more frequently, while still providing the highest level of service and professionalism.

OU Police operates a state-of-the-art public safety answering point (PSAP) staffed by highly trained police communications personnel. These individuals handle emergency calls for police, fire and emergency medical assistance, as well as non-emergency calls and inquiries.

How do I reach OU Police in an emergency?

• Dial 911 from a campus phone
• Dial (248) 370-3331 from a cell phone
• Send an SMS text message to 911

What if I dial 911 by mistake?

DO NOT hang up the telephone. Instead, wait on the line until you make contact with the dispatcher. If you hang up, the dispatcher is required to call you back. If you cannot be contacted, a police officer will be dispatched to your location.

OUPD has three evidence technicians who have attended 80 hours of training in the fundamentals of evidence processing and crime scene investigation. Our evidence technicians have specialized training in many areas, including:

• Crime scene photography
• Fingerprint development
• Casing footwear and tire impressions
• Collecting evidence
• Recording the scene
• Arson investigation
• Legal aspects
• Major crime investigation
• Death investigation

Police Service Aides (PSA's) are part-time student employees of the police department. PSA's performs a variety of duties which do not require the authority of a sworn officer.

PSA's may be called upon to do any or all of the following:

• Lock and unlock university facilities
• Provide SAFEwalk escorts. You can find information about SAFEwalk escorts on the Campus Safety page.
• Pick up or drop off property at various locations
• Enforce parking regulations (see our Parking Services page to view regulations)
• Provide motorist assistance (jump starts, etc.)
• Provide extra eyes and ears for police officers
• Assist with the testing of campus emergency systems
• Other duties as assigned

The PSA position is an excellent first step for young men and women who are interested in a career in law enforcement. Many OU PSA's have moved on to successful careers with local, state and federal agencies.

If you are interested in a job as a PSA, please view career opportunities on our About OUPD page.