UF Police Department Recognized for Excellence in Policy and Training

During 2020, University of Findlay Police Department personnel responded to more than 80 requests for assistance and calls for service. To maintain a consistent and professional response, the department relies on comprehensive, up-to-date policies.

Recently, UF was recognized by the Lexipol Connect program for achieving the Gold level of policy implementation and review for consistently and effectively disseminating policies to officers, issuing timely policy updates as laws change, and ensuring officers are trained on policies. Lexipol is the nation’s leading content, policy and training platform for public safety agencies; the Connect program tracks UF’s performance on five metrics proven to measure success in policy management.

“Policies are very important in police work,” said William Spraw, chief of police and director of security. “There will always be a gray area when it comes to policing, so officers need a guide. Policies and training provide that and help keep everyone safe.”

Policy and training categories that each officer must acknowledge and complete include use of force, community engagement, telecommunication training, bias free policing, and motor vehicle pursuits. Along with staying up-to-date with policies and procedures through annual training, UF Campus Police are also provided Daily Training Bulletins (DPTs) which consist of hypothetical scenarios from which officers determine the best course of action and which policies apply.

“Officers have to be attentive to how their actions will affect the intended outcome,” Spraw said. “Our officers are very professional and care about what they do and they care about our University. The University’s Police Department is still fairly new, and this recognition from Lexipol shows that we are committed to providing the best service possible for our community.”