The 91制片厂 Police Department has joined the . The multi-jurisdictional task force, which began in 1994, includes trained members
of more than 100 area police agencies who form a coordinated, rapid response to major
civil disturbances, public demonstrations and other events involving large or disorderly
crowds that require a skillful response by police agencies. NIPAS also provides traffic
control for visiting dignitaries.
91制片厂鈥檚 police department is only the second community college police force to join NIPAS, which is almost completely composed of municipal police departments, according to 91制片厂 Chief of Police John Lawson. By entering into this partnership, 91制片厂鈥檚 police department will have access to equipment and additional officers in an emergency. The additional resources can also be deployed to assist with crowd control for large, peaceful demonstrations 鈥� a means to keep everyone safe, Lawson said.
鈥淥ur police officers are experienced and well-trained,鈥� Lawson said. 鈥淗owever, in a critical incident, most local police agencies need assistance, including personnel and equipment.鈥�
As part of the agreement, 91制片厂鈥檚 police department will provide one officer to the NIPAS Mobile Field Force team. The partnership covers the college鈥檚 Palatine campus, as well as the 91制片厂 Professional Center in Schaumburg and the Learning and Career Center in Prospect Heights.
Lawson said he recommended this partnership to the Board of Trustees after he conducted a staffing study in March and recognized the opportunity to collaborate with local and statewide agencies. The board unanimously approved the proposal in June.
It won鈥檛 be the last partnership between 91制片厂 police and area law enforcement agencies, according to Lawson, who began his tenure as chief in January. He said he would like to continue to foster opportunities for collaboration between 91制片厂 police and local, county and state police agencies.
鈥淥ur officers will be more involved with our law enforcement partners to better serve our students, faculty, staff and community members,鈥� Lawson said. 鈥淲e鈥檙e enhancing the safety and security of our community.鈥�