Authority of campus police?

I've always been curious as to whether or not they are "real" police or if they are on the same level as the $6.00/hr Pinkerton security guards. The ones at my school carry guns and badges but I don't know if they actually go to the police academy for any type of real training. Does anyone know anything about this? Can they enforce laws away from the campus?

I don't know where you are, but it depends.

Of the three colleges I've attended, one had "security" (with work-study students!) and two have had legit police departments.

The campus police (as opposed to security) did attend the academy and most worked for municipal departments prior to campus assignments... Actually with some of the larger schools, it might even be a requirement. Schools want to protect their legal interests and it's probably easier with an experienced cop than a rookie.

I don't know how far the jurisdiction extends, though. Again, that will probably depend on where you are, how well-defined the campus boundaries are, where incidents take place, etc.

If you are curious, check with your school. They will be able to provide the best information. But I have a feeling that if they are called "police" and carry weapons, they're probably legit... I'm under the impression in my state that you must be a legit officer of the law to carry a gun on school property.

Stick around to see if anyone else answers... I'm just a student and am sharing my experiences...

In Ca. it varies from school to school. The schools that have campus police are peace officers in the state of ca. The penal code gives them regular police powers in the performance of their duties, on school property.

[racer72]

The guards at the large airplane manufacturing plant I work at are called security guards but they are considered police officers and have the same powers as any municipal officer. It is the same at many larger colleges and universities.