Protocol for Potential Visits to Campus By Local, State, and Federal Law Enforcement

Public Safety serves as the coordinating department for all interactions with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. Any request by law enforcement officers to enter non-public areas of campus must be directed to Public Safety and handled in accordance with the procedures outlined below. This guidance is consistent with all applicable laws and the College’s established practices.

Access to Campus and College Buildings

Can law enforcement officers, including ICE agents, access campus or College buildings without a warrant?

Law enforcement officers must present a valid judicial warrant or subpoena to access non-public areas of the College.

Except for the vestibule leading up to the Zankel Building Public Safety registration desk, all other areas of the College are considered “non-public” and require TCID access or guest sign-in.

In limited circumstances, known as exigent circumstances (for example, when there is a risk of imminent harm to individuals or property), law enforcement may enter College buildings or access individuals without consent or a warrant.

Students, faculty, and staff should not attempt to interfere with law enforcement activities if officers are observed on campus. Instead, stay safe and immediately contact Public Safety as described below.

If Law Enforcement Requests Entry or Information

What should students, faculty, or staff do if a law enforcement officer requests entry to a non-public area in non-exigent circumstances, or seeks information about another individual?

• Contact Public Safety as soon as possible

• Ask the officer(s) to wait before entering any non-public area and contact Public Safety at (212) 678-3333 (available 24/7).

• Public Safety will notify the Office of the General Counsel and coordinate the College’s response.

• Do not accept service of a warrant, subpoena, or other legal documentation.

If asked to provide information or accept documentation, you may state:

“I am not authorized by the College to grant permission to enter non-public areas, provide information about individual students or employees, or accept service of documentation on behalf of the College.”

Then refer the officer(s) to Public Safety and the Office of the General Counsel.

If You Observe Enforcement Activity on Campus

What should students, faculty, or staff do if they observe law enforcement officers conducting enforcement activities on campus?

Immediately contact Public Safety.