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Mission Statement
Proactive, Progressive, Professional
The mission of the Trinity University Police Department is to work with the highest integrity in partnership with the campus community to enhance quality of life by providing exemplary police service for all in a proactive, progressive, and professional manner.
Message from the Chief of Police
The Trinity University Police Department is committed to creating a safe community in which to work, learn, and live. Our state-certified police officers and communications officers are here to assist you.
The University Police Department addresses security concerns in a proactive and progressive manner ensuring that our students, faculty, and staff are provided with the best possible service. We provide 24-hour police service and emergency response by vehicle, bicycle, and foot patrol.
I encourage students to utilize our safety escort program known as Tiger Tracks during evening hours and subscribe to our new mobile app ELERTS. Working together as a community, we will continue to promote safety and security at Trinity.
Sincerely,
Paul J. Chapa
Chief of Police
Values
We take Safety Seriously and believe it is everyone's role to help keep our campus safe. The department subscribes to a modern policing philosophy based on six pillars:
Community Connections
We build trust through meaningful relationships, active listening, and visible engagement across campus. Safety is strongest when policing is rooted in partnership, accessibility, and shared responsibility.
Policy and Accountability
We uphold clear standards, transparent practices, and ethical decision-making to ensure accountability and strengthen confidence in our service. Our commitment to fairness and consistency guides every action.
Technology and Social Media
We leverage modern tools and digital communication to enhance safety, improve responsiveness, and keep our community informed. Innovation supports both transparency and operational excellence.
Community Safety
We take a proactive, prevention-focused approach to protecting people, property, and the campus environment. Through preparedness, visibility, and collaboration, we foster a secure and resilient community.
Training and Education
Continuous learning equips our officers with the knowledge, skills, and cultural competency needed to serve a diverse campus with professionalism, empathy, and sound judgment.
Officer Wellness
We recognize that healthy, supported officers are essential to effective public safety. Prioritizing physical, mental, and emotional wellness strengthens our team and the community we serve.
Certifications and Accreditation
Our Commitment to Safety and Security
All police officers employed by the University:
- are fully certified Texas Peace Officers and have full arrest authority
- are licensed under Article 51.212 of the Texas Education Code
- have completed state-mandated police recruit training programs
- have met employment standards
- are trained in First Aid, CPR, and AED
International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators Accreditation
TUPD is accredited by the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators (IACLEA). This accreditation requires the satisfaction of standards that reflect the best professional requirements and practices for campus public safety agencies.
Texas Police Chiefs Association’s Best Practices Recognition
The Trinity University Police Department has achieved recognition status for best practices from the Texas Police Chiefs Association Recognition Program, based on proven compliance with the association’s Texas Law Enforcement Best Practices.
Behind the Uniform
I Am TU. Discover a little more about the TUPD officers, their hobbies, their families, and their lives.