Comparing Racial Demographics in Student Population and Campus Police

In the last year, there has been a national conversation about the relationship between police departments and the communities they serve. This lively debate was brought to the forefront by the Ferguson Protests, the Baltimore Uprising, and cases involving Eric Garner, Freddie Gray, Tamir Rice, Sandra Bland, and many others.

These cases have raised concerns about race relations between primarily white police forces and people of color.

At Frostburg State University, the Fall 2014 enrollment profile included 4 Hawaiian students, 5 American Indian students, 84 Asian students, 235 Hispanic students, 1414 African American students, and 2813 Caucasian students. Based on these demographics, officers believe they are able to police the student population fairly. The biggest challenge seen by campus police is, “the perception on the part of students to whether or not we can be fair,” Frostburg State University Police Chief Cynthia Smith said.

Chief Smith has been at FSU for six years and says her goal is to “increase the diversity within the department.” Unfortunately, there has been some difficulty in achieving that goal but it still remains relevant. Smith explains when there is recruitment, “we are constantly looking for those qualified diverse candidates.” When looking for qualified candidates, Smith says there are a number of challenges: there are not a lot of diverse candidates who apply, there are diverse candidates who would fail the background checks which would prevent them from joining the force, and there are candidates who may have done something in their past that they believe will be a hindrance and lie about it.

In order to apply for a position at FSU, you must be at least 21 years of age and a high school graduate of good moral character. However, FSU officers tend to be a bit older due to the student population demographics and their interest in working with them. All candidates must take a lie detector and polygraph test in addition to passing a rigorous 26 week police academy program that is required for all officers in the state of Maryland.

When someone has had an unpleasant experience with a police officer, it’s difficult to point out the “good cops v.s. bad cops” and much easier to have the assumption all police are the same. The mission of the officers is to educate every opportunity they come across. Although there is a diverse demographic, there aren’t any differences when talking or dealing with students. There may be some cultural differences amongst the students, but nevertheless all students are treated equally, according to Chief Smith and Corporal Pressman.

“Race doesn’t matter,” said Corporal Pressman.

Pressman pointed out that when students come to FSU they feel safe and never have any real issues. Corporal Pressman recalls talking to a FSU student who made the comment, “I’m glad I’m up here. You guys are way different from the police officers that my family deals with.” The student went on to say, “You guys are so nice, so courteous, and me and my friends never have a problem talking to you guys.”

Pressman believes being approachable to students is the best way in getting involved with students. He believes, “It’s all about respect and being safe. Students feel a lot more comfortable when they personally know police.”