What should a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with local law enforcement include?

A memorandum of understanding (MOU) between a college or university and local law enforcement is an essential document outlining the collaboration between these entities, particularly in relation to campus safety and crime reporting. Including procedures for reporting crimes occurring on or near campus in the MOU is vital, as it establishes clear protocols for how incidents are communicated and managed. This fosters a coordinated approach to crime response and ensures that both campus security and law enforcement agencies can effectively share information about criminal activity, thereby enhancing the safety and security of the campus community.

The absence of defined crime reporting procedures could lead to confusion and inefficiencies in handling incidents, which is why this aspect is crucial for legal compliance and effective safety strategies. Other elements mentioned, such as budget allocations, staffing details, and community outreach strategies, while important for comprehensive campus safety and security planning, do not directly pertain to the operational collaboration between the institution and law enforcement regarding crime reporting and response.