Both the University of Nebraska-Lincoln city and east campuses along with athletic facilities, and the University of Nebraska System office is under the legal jurisdiction of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Police Department.
The longstanding policy at the University of Nebraska is that outside law enforcement, including federal agencies may enter spaces that are open to the public, although a judicial warrant may be necessary for access to private spaces such as residence halls, classrooms, and offices.
UNLPD works routinely with other law enforcement agencies to help secure and enhance the safety of our campus community. In addition, members of other law enforcement agencies can also be on campus to attend training exercises, association/organization gatherings or meetings, high-profile events or government programs.
It is common practice for other law enforcement agencies to contact UNLPD before they have a planned reason or need to carry out an official duty within our jurisdiction. While law enforcement officials are not required to seek the university’s permission to interview employees or students, NU Executive Memorandum 43 requires a subpoena, warrant or court order to release student information without a student’s permission.
In accordance with Executive Memorandum 43, if you have an investigative encounter with a federal agent or other law enforcement officer, please contact UNLPD at 402-472-2222 or the Office of General Counsel at 402-472-1201.
Outside Enforcement Guidelines:
- Comply with any warrant and do not impede law enforcement officers. Allow UNLPD and the Office of General Counsel to engage with all law enforcement officers.
- Most spaces within the University are open to the public, and law enforcement officials are not required to seek permission to interview an individual employee or student.
- Law enforcement needs a subpoena or a warrant to enter spaces such as offices, labs, classrooms, and residence halls. Those could be considered private spaces.
- If law enforcement officers do not have a subpoena, you are not required to submit to an interview.
- A subpoena, search warrant or other court order are required to release student information without a student’s permission. Public directory information may be released.
- Again, if law enforcement officials appear on campus with a subpoena or warrant call UNLPD (402-472-2222) and the Office of General Counsel (402-472-1201).