With a new campus-wide camera system being installed this week, The University of Toledo Police Department is taking a proactive approach to campus safety.
UToledo is installing 30 Flock Safety license plate-reading cameras with views of the entrances and exits of Main Campus and Health Science Campus, establishing a virtual perimeter that law enforcement officers can use to identify incoming and outgoing vehicles.
John Maletic Jr. installs a license plate-reading camera on the west side of Main Campus.
The information can only be used for law enforcement purposes. It is expected to assist officers in investigations, as well as alert them in cases where an immediate response is needed, such as when the system identifies a license plate associated with a stolen vehicle or AMBER Alert.
“We’re working hard to ensure the students, faculty and staff are safe,” UToledo Police Chief Rodney Theis said. “Technology is one tool we can leverage to achieve this goal efficiently, and Flock Safety has a remarkable record when it comes to campus and community safety.”
Flock Safety reports that its technology is used by more than 2,000 cities, more than 1,500 law enforcement agencies and more than 50 higher education institutions. The Toledo Police Department, Lucas County Sheriff’s Office and other regional law enforcement agencies are among those already using it, allowing for convenient collaboration with UToledo Police.
Campus cameras are expected to be operational by the end of October. Nineteen will be installed on Main Campus and 11 will be installed on Health Science Campus.
UToledo Police vehicles have been outfitted with cameras integrated with the system since June.
The Flock Safety system is supported by a grant for $114,240 that UToledo received through the Ohio Department of Public Safety’s Ohio School Safety Center in November 2022.
The UToledo Police Department counts 30 sworn officers, including one dedicated community engagement and innovation officer. The camera system is the latest example of new or upgraded technology that officers use to keep campus safe.
Prior to updating the vehicle cameras in June, the department also upgraded its officer body cameras in December 2022 and its TASERs in March.
In August, the department began soliciting feedback on campus interactions with officers through PowerEngage, a tool that allows them to send automated surveys via text message several days after an interaction. The surveys are intended to gauge a respondent’s satisfaction, and to identify opportunities for improvement or positive reinforcement.
So far, the department has sent 214 surveys through PowerEngage.
