Carson-Newman and Jefferson City Police Department form new partnership in campus safety

^{Carson-Newman University and Jefferson City officials signed an agreement Monday establishing a partnership between the University’s Safety and Security Office and the Jefferson City Police Department. Pictured left to right, seated: Jefferson City Mayor Mark Potts and Carson-Newman University President J. Randall O’Brien. Back row: University Vice President for Student Affairs Ross Brummett, University Director of Safety and Security Steven Lake, University Chief Financial Officer Martha Chambers, and Jefferson City Chief of Police Andy Dossett.}

(June 20, 2016) – Officials from Carson-Newman University, the Jefferson City Police Department and the City of Jefferson City announced Monday a new partnership to bolster the safety and security for the University’s campus. The Monday announcement followed an official signing held at the Jefferson City Municipal Building.

“We are pleased to welcome members of the Jefferson City Police Department to our campus,” said Steven Lake, director of Carson-Newman’s Office of Safety and Security. “We believe this is one of, if not the only, ‘hybrid model’ police and security force integration at a private Christian University in Tennessee.”

Jefferson City Police Chief Andy Dossett said such an initiative can only be a positive.

“This is not only an outstanding opportunity to greatly improve public safety on and around campus, but an outstanding outreach program. The coalition formed by this agreement will leave a long lasting impression on our community and those who choose to further their education here,” said Dossett. “This is a fine example of how two very large entities with two completely different missions can unite as one for the betterment of others. Most importantly, as a father I know I am helping to provide the best possible security and safety for more than two thousand young adults that have been entrusted to us by their parents.”

The five-year contractual agreement will have four certified JCPD officers joining Carson-Newman’s security guards and provide around the clock police protection for students, employees and campus visitors.

Along with elevating campus safety by patrolling on foot and vehicle, Lake says officers will also take part in educational duties, providing crime and victimization prevention programs.

“The continued safety and security of students, staff and visitors is paramount,” said Lake. “We are excited and look forward to this new alliance with some of our community’s finest.”