Harvard University Police Department

I worked as a Police Officer for Harvard University Police Department from 1991 – 1995. Probably one of the best Law Enforcement experiences of my life. They sent me to the State Police Academy in Needham. The University equipped us with what we needed to protect the people who attended, worked, and visited Harvard. The Officers to this day were some of the best I’ve ever worked for and with including dispatchers, Sergeants, Lieutenants, Captain and Chief. We worked as a team to keep the Harvard community safe. Sadly I left in 1995 to pursue a career in Law Enforcement with the LAPD. I miss my Harvard University Police days and have many good memories and while there I helped solve many crimes with the help of fellow Employees and one of the best Police Departments in Massachusetts. My hat is off to HUPD for their continued tradition of professionalism and service to the Harvard University Community. Good job done by all who still work the blue line at HUPD.

Not what I was expecting at all. When I signed up for my recent two days of training, I was under the impression it would be held at the Cambridge PD, not HUPD. Not having much dealings with them, i had no idea what to expect. No worries, everyone was quite kind and professional, precisely what one would expect. the school is lucky to have such a wonderful department should the need arise.

I was homeless in Cambridge in 1984 or so and without a shirt in late fall when it was really cold. I slept on the berm of the Harvard University particle accelerator out of sight. Things looked dim and didn’t show much chance of changing, so I decided to attempt suicide. I bought a bottle of sleeping pills and that night took them all. The only thing it did was put me to sleep.
The next night I bought two bottles of sleeping pills and tried again. This time I went asleep and woke up starting to die but it was so uncomfortable I decided not to let it happen and roused myself.
Walking away from the bushes, a Harvard University police squad car drove slowly up and the officer at the wheel beckoned me to approach. He rolled down his window and handed me a $ 50 bill.
Then a few days later the Harvard police invited me to a party being held by the staff of the Harvard student newspaper. I went and it was a breath of fresh air. They were so respectful. I had been managing editor of my high school newspaper at Glenbard West High School in Glen Ellyn, IL so it meant something to me.
I owe the Harvard University police my deepest gratitude for stepping in at a moment when my life was on the line. Thank you so very much!