We hope your time at New Mexico Highlands University is enjoyable, successful and safe.  Of course, like any campus, NMHU experiences some level of crime.  The NMHU Police/Security Department wants you to have the information you need to feel safe and secure.  This brochure will help you better understand the following:

• What is the role of NMHU Police/Security Department;
• What types of crimes occur at New Mexico Highlands University;
• How does the University respond to crime;
• How can we prevent crime;
• What happens if you become a victim?

However, anyone wanting specific information of off-campus crime should contact the appropriate agency.

NMHU Police/Security Department

The NMHU Police/Security Department is a full-service police agency, open 24 hours daily, during which time the Administrative Assistant or a  dispatcher/telephone operator is available to provide assistance.  It is not simply a security force; rather, it is similar to a municipal police department for a small city.

NMHU police officers have enforcement authority on all property controlled by the NMHU Board of Regents.  To accomplish this, NMHU police officers rely on and have a good working relationship with all surrounding police agencies—federal, state, county and city.

The primary functions of the NMHU Police/Security Department are: keeping the peace, law enforcement, criminal investigations, and emergency response.  Integral to these are the crime prevention and public education programs that the NMHU Police/Security Department sponsors, such as:

• Rape Awareness and Prevention
• Crime Prevention and Reduction
• Alcohol and Drug Awareness  
• Operation Identification
• Traffic and Personal Safety

In addition, the NMHU Police/Security Department works with other departments on campus to design specific training programs based on the needs of each area. Call the NMHU Police/Security Department for information on these programs.

The NMHU Police/Security Services publish its crime statistics yearly in accordance with the United States Department of Education and Clery Act of 1990.

The following is a sample of those statistics: 

These numbers reflect reported incidents, not convictions.

*The increase in alcohol-related violations after 1990 reflects a different reporting method, one that includes incidents where alcohol is a contributing factor.
**Includes violations of controlled substance act.
For more information, contact the NMHU Police/Security. Additional information is available free of charge and can be mailed if requested, or picked up at the headquarters at 11th and Baca Streets.

Residence Hall Security | Tips to Prevent Crime | If You Become a Victim | Other Services | NM Sex Offender Information Page

Safety is Everyone’s Concern

A campus community relies on a peaceful, safe and secure environment.  Preserving this environment is a responsibility everyone must share.  Campus community members are asked to be aware of University Policies and Procedures and to report any crime or suspicious activity.

Everyone needs to be realistic about personal safety.  While the NMHU Police/Security Department strives to keep the campus safe, it cannot do so if people intentionally choose to engage in risky activity.  Being aware of your surroundings and avoiding suspicious or dangerous activity can help keep you out of trouble.

NMHU Police on Criminal Activity

The Board of Regents of NMHU, the NMHU dministration and the NMHU Police/Security Department will not condone any conduct that is illegal or that violates the rights of another individual.  The NMHU Police/Security Department will make every effort to assist victims of crimes and aid in the prosecution of those responsible.  The NMHU policies prohibiting alcohol use, drug use and criminal behavior may be found in the NMHU Code of Student Conduct (available from the Office of VP-Dean of Students).

Other Helpful Phone Numbers

NMHU is an AA/EEO institution.  For disabled access or services, call 454-3252 or TDD# 454-3003