DPS News

Sixteen (16) community members graduated from Syracuse University Department of Public Safety (DPS) Community Police Academy (CPA) on October 15, completing an intensive program that offered an inside look at campus public safety operations and built stronger connections between DPS and the community.

“Our community members, faculty, staff, and students have all shown great interest in law enforcement practices,” said Officer George Wazen, CPA Coordinator. “Our curriculum focuses on hands-on, interactive activities that provide a deeper understanding of how our officers train and the challenges they face on a day-to-day basis. We look forward to welcoming more participants and receiving additional applications in the future.”

The multi-week academy provided participants with hands-on experience across every facet of public safety. Graduates toured the Emergency Communications Center (ECC), where campus emergencies are managed and coordinated 24/7. They witnessed a dynamic K9 demonstration showcasing the specialized skills of the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office canine units and learned critical fire safety practices, including smoke detector maintenance and usage, with Fire and Life Safety Services.

Partnering with the Syracuse Police Department, participants gained insight into crime scene management and processing techniques. The training also covered investigative procedures, defense tactics, and real-world scenario exercises that gave graduates a realistic understanding of the challenges public safety officers face daily.

Life-saving skills formed a crucial component of the curriculum. Graduates completed “Stop the Bleed” and CPR training through Syracuse University Ambulance (SUA), equipping them with the knowledge to respond effectively in medical emergencies. The academy concluded with building search exercises, providing firsthand experience in tactical operations.

“The Community Police Academy helps build trust and understanding between our department and the campus community,” said Chief of Campus Safety Michael Bunker.

The Community Police Academy strengthens the partnership between DPS and the Syracuse University community by fostering understanding and collaboration in campus safety operations. Graduates leave the program as informed ambassadors who can share their knowledge with fellow students, faculty, and staff.

For more information about the Community Police Academy, visit dps.syr.edu.

Domestic violence affects many in our campus community. More than one in three college students in abusive relationships report digital abuse or stalking, including constant texts, location tracking or social media monitoring.

In recognition of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October, Syracuse University’s Department of Public Safety partnered with House of Psalms 23, Inc., a local nonprofit organization dedicated to helping women break the cycle of poverty, abuse, and incarceration.

Our Women in Law Enforcement Peer Mentor Group hosted a tabletop discussion with House of Psalms 23 to explore the intersection of campus safety and community support for domestic violence survivors. The group also organized a donation drive throughout October to support the organization and the women they serve.

Detective Jessica Zaccari, who leads the Women in Law Enforcement Peer Mentor Group, said, “”When women come together, we have an innate ability to connect and become a united force that drives change. We’re so grateful to House of Psalms 23 for opening their doors and creating space for those meaningful connections. The work they do fills vital gaps for women impacted by poverty, abuse, and incarceration. I have full confidence that the women we met will continue achieving their dreams.”

“Our ladies were truly inspired by your willingness to engage, educate, and share real conversations about the intersection of DV and policing—breaking myths, building understanding, and promoting healing through awareness,” said representatives from House of Psalms 23.

“This event shows the value of creating opportunities for authentic dialogue between law enforcement and the community,” added Detective Zaccari. “These genuine, personal conversations strengthen relationships and build trust in ways that complement our broader community engagement efforts.”

Recognize the Red Flags

Understanding the warning signs of an abusive relationship is the first step toward getting help:

• Constant monitoring and control, such as demanding location sharing or account passwords
• Boundary violations and ignoring consent
• Threats to expose intimate photos or using self-harm threats to prevent you from leaving
• Isolation from friends, family or campus resources

What You Can Do

Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it likely is. Controlling or threatening behavior is never a sign of care.

Protect your technology. Limit location sharing, use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication.

Document incidents. Save texts, screenshots and voicemails in a secure location.

Reach out for support. Talk to a trusted friend, staff in Student Title IX Case Management (located at 242 Marley Education Center), the Dean of Students (located at 111 Waverly, suite 211), a Barnes Center counselor or contact DPS. You don’t have to face this alone.

Get Help, Give Hope

If you or someone you know is experiencing relationship violence, help is available:

• Barnes Center at The Arch: 315.443.8000
• Syracuse University DPS: 315.443.2224
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1.800.799.7233 (24/7 support)

Together, we can create a safer campus and community for everyone.