The Ohio State University Police Division (OSUPD) unveiled a new police substation today located on 11th Avenue just east of High Street. The substation will be the hub for officers from both OSUPD and the Columbus Division of Police (CPD) working in the University District neighborhood as part of the university’s joint patrol program.
First responders from across Central Ohio were recognized and celebrated during First Responder Night at The Ohio State University men’s hockey game against Michigan State. The evening highlighted the strong partnerships that help keep the Buckeye community safe, both on and off campus.
The Lantern covered the many resources offered by Ohio State for students living off-campus. Among the resources was joint patrol, a program that features four The Ohio State University Police Division (OSUPD) officers partnered full-time with the Columbus Division of Police to patrol the off-campus University District.
"Our top priority is the safety of our campus community and we understand a majority of our students live in the immediate off-campus area," Dan Hedman told the outlet.
The Ohio State University Police Division (OSUPD) welcomed three new officers to the division during a pinning ceremony on October 24, 2025. Alexis Guthrie, Caden Mosher and Josh Long were officially welcomed to OSUPD and celebrated by family, friends and colleagues. These three new officers bring the force closer to its authorized strength of 75 sworn police. In addition, OSUPD is supported by hundreds of non-sworn security, a 9-1-1 dispatch center and technology like surveillance cameras.
They roam the University District at night, wearing orange and white jackets, on a mission to help keep students safe.
Called Buckeye Block Watch, these non-sworn patrols operate as the university’s extra eyes and ears in the off-campus area to escort students home, report burnt-out street lights and overflow trash and call police if they see a crime happening.
Doug McGrew, director of Central Campus Security Services at Ohio State views the patrols as no different than protecting one of his own children.
This Halloween weekend, keep the costumes spooky but take your personal safety serious. If you celebrate, please do so responsibly and be respectful neighbors. Police recommend sticking with your friends. If you go out together, come home together.
On campus, make everyone use their Buck ID to swipe into residence halls and do not allow tailgaters. If you see something suspicious, report it to University Police by calling 614-292-2121. Off-campus, call the Columbus Division of Police at 614-645-4545. Always dial 9-1-1 in emergencies.
As students return for a new academic year, The Ohio State University Police Division (OSUPD) Chief Dennis Jeffrey shares how his team works to keep the Buckeye community safe. Ohio State offers many safety resources, such as Lyft Ride Smart discounts, free safety devices and more.
Satoru Persons, director of Communications and Security Technology at The Ohio State University Department of Public Safety, was featured in EdTech discussing the importance of license plate readers on campus.
"The LPR technology is integrated and connected with the National Crime Information Center. If we get a confirmation of a license place that is registered or on notice with NCIC, we get notified. That tells us that there may be a reaon for us to stop that vehicle," Persons said.
Scams can happen at any time and to anyone. Take extra precautions and be leery of phone calls, emails or other communications that seem strange.
Be sure to follow these tips to avoid common scams.
How long have you been with OSUPD? How long have you been part of the Joint Patrol Program?