Security Alert Policy


Why is a Security Alert issued?

Security Alerts are issued in compliance with the Higher Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1092(f)) . This act requires that a timely notice be issued when a :

occurs on Vanderbilt facilities/property and there is reason to believe that there is a threat to students and/or employees.

How is it determined if a Security Alert is issued for a particular incident?

The determination on whether an incident is a threat is based upon the following four questions:

  • Is the incident in one of the above categories (A-H)?
  • Did the incident occurr in an area for which VUPD must report statistics or at a location where VUPD is the primary police responder (see map)?
  • Is the suspect unknown?
  • Did the incident by its nature (A-D, G) or during the commission of the intended incident involve a crime against a person (E-F) or in the event of arson (H) occurred in an occupied building?

If all of the above questions can be answered with a "yes" then a security alert shall be issued.

In addition, upon the discretion of the Chief of Vanderbilt University Police Department or his designee, a security alert may issued for any crime where there is a compelling need to get information to or from the Vanderbilt Community about a specific crime.

What are the guidelines for issuing a Security Alert?

1. Security Alerts should contain as much of the following information as possible:

  • VUPD incident number and MNPD incident number
  • Date, time, location (general or specific) and summarized event description.
  • Suspect description and/or vehicle description
  • Any special instructions that may be needed

2. Security Alerts will be issued as soon as possible after the specific event. If the incident is a delayed report (more than 24 hours) by the victim then the time and date the victim reported the incident will also be included in the report.

3. Provided the above guidelines are met, nothing should be included in the security alert that would hinder an ongoing police investigation.

4. The security alert will not identify the victim by name or address.

5. The general description of the location may be given such as, but not limited to, Vanderbilt University, dorm, geographic location, etc.

Where can I find information about other crimes at Vanderbilt?

Information about all crimes at Vanderbilt can be found on our daily crime report. Follow this link in order to view the Crime Report.