SDSU Police Department
Critical Response Unit
The SDSU Police Department has officers assigned to the state-wide Critical Response Unit (CRU). The CRU team reflects and supports the California State University’s policy of Critical response. CRU personnel are trained to:
- Mitigate the effects of natural disasters
- Prevent and mitigate the effects of civil disorder
- Protect life and property when local campus officials deem a necessity exists to insure and protect public welfare
[return]
Executive Order 797
In 1993, the CSU formed the CRU to assist fellow campuses with additional personnel who are specifically trained to respond as a unit to the above situations. The CRU is composed of selected university police officers who are sensitive to and understand the problems and dynamics of an academic institution. The CRU lessens the need to use municipal law enforcement who may not have a vested interest in the university community. CRU status is a highly sought position by university police officers; CRU members are highly trained, specialized officers. For more information see the CSU document, Executive Order 797 Chancellor’s Office CRU Policy. 
The CRU consists of geographical sub-units available upon request to assist any of the CSU campuses with critical incidents, emergencies and disasters. CRU officers are trained in crowd control, dignitary protection, and disaster relief. CRU members assisted CSU Northridge in the aftermath of the 1994 Northridge Quake, provided special security for former President Bill Clinton and other visiting dignitaries, and have responded to numerous requests for help within the CSU system.
The SDSU contingent of CRU is staffed by four officers. The total statewide contingent is approximately 50 officers.
[return]
This page last updated June 5, 2008
Site Contact UCO Web Support