KVAQ-TV EDINBURG – In observance of National Campus Safety Awareness Month, University Police hosted “Greet-A-Cop,” which provided students an opportunity to ask questions, interact and meet with UTRGV officers.
University Police Sergeant Fellippe Munoz said the intention behind the event is for officers to engage with the community.
“I think it’s a constant reminder for us to come out here and let our people know that we’re here for them and we’re available, to serve and protect them at any time,” Munoz said.
University Police Lieutenant Brian Carpenter said the event is a great opportunity to learn more about students and build a relationship with them.
“There’s a lot of issues going on in the world, and us as police, we don’t want to be seen as the bad guys,” Carpenter said.
Some of the services University Police provides are available through the Campus Shield app, which include 24/7 rides or escorts for students, anonymous reports, an emergency button, campus maps and more.
University Police Assistant Chief Van Slusser said vigilance is not a task University Police can take on alone.
“So, we only have so many officers, but if we can partner with the university community, you have thousands upon thousands of eyes that are out there that can help us,” Slusser said. “And so, when anybody sees anything suspicious, just let us know. Give us a call and we’ll come out and check it out.”
He said there will be a Greet-A-Cop event on the Brownsville campus. However, the date is yet to be announced.
