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STOP

What is STOP?

STOP (Students on Patrol) was created in August 1990, by the Illinois State University Police Department, the former Office of Student Life, and the Department of Criminal Justice Sciences. Unfortunately STOP ceased to continue after 2001. However, during the time it existed, STOP was a valuable resource for Illinois State University. STOP members detected numerous criminal actions which resulted in criminal prosecution, as well as other safety and security problems on the campus. There is no accurate method for determining the effectiveness of the visible deterrence STOP had on crime during the hundreds of hours of logged patrol time.

STOP was not only valuable to the University as a whole, but was also beneficial to its numerous members over the years. Since its beginnings, STOP members donated their time and effort to make the campus safer for everyone. STOP provided its members with valuable life experience. Many former STOP members continued on to become police officers for municipal, state, and federal agencies. Others used their time in STOP as real world volunteer experience on resumes, increasing their marketability in a competitive job field.

With the increased interest in safety, and with a commitment by student leaders, there is now a renewed effort to bring STOP back to the Illinois State University campus. Once again, STOP will be the “eyes and ears” of campus, dedicated to protecting life and property.

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“The STOP program was my first introduction into the world of Law Enforcement. By observing and assisting the Illinois State University Police, I became aware of the roles and duties within police agencies. I saw how the police officers interacted with citizens, while attempting to make the campus a better and safer place. The STOP program made me more adept at my skills of observation, and even provided me an opportunity to supervise other STOP members. During interviews, the information I learned through the STOP program gave me a distinct advantage over the other qualified law enforcement applicants.” -DEA Special Agent and STOP Alumni, Craig F.

Stop Application

We are currently taking applications for the Fall 2011 semester.

What are the requirements?

Must be an ISU student
18 years of age or older
Subject to a criminal background check: Anyone who has been convicted of a felony, or some misdemeanor offenses, are ineligible for STOP. Those with multiple questionable police contacts may also be excluded.
Failing to note a conviction in the application will result in disqualification.
Complete a mandatory training session and pass a written exam
Adhere to all local, state, and federal laws, as well as University policies

What’s in it for me?

You gain the satisfaction of knowing that you are taking an active role in the safety of yourself and others on ISU’s campus.
You can attend specialized training or guest speakers at monthly meetings, promoting a better understanding of safety issues and law enforcement practices.
STOP provides real world experience for your resume and may give you an edge with potential employers. Many past members now work for federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
Recognition for your service through the President’s Volunteer Service Award and the STOP Achievement Awards.

What will STOP be doing?

Patrol the central campus of ISU, reporting suspicious activity to ISUPD
Report burnt out lights or other safety concerns
Provide late night escorts for students, faculty, and staff
Assist ISUPD Dispatch
Develop and promote crime prevention programs on campus.
Patrol special events such as ISU Football tailgating.
Provide traffic control for special events.
Check doors on academic buildings during restricted access hours.
Assist in emergencies and disasters.
Participate in emergency drills.
Court room testimony as a witness in criminal cases
Other duties as assigned.

Frequently Asked Questions

How will I patrol the campus?
- All STOP members will serve as a two person patrol team. Should an odd number of members be present, there will be a three person team. No STOP member will ever patrol by themselves.
Will STOP be calling in parties?
- No. STOP is NOT “party patrol.” The primary purpose of STOP is to help make the ISU campus safer for everyone by reporting criminal acts and providing a visible deterrence for crime.
Will STOP be working during semester breaks or holidays?
- No. We will not be offering STOP services during the Fall, Winter, and Spring Breaks.
Do I have to be a Criminal Justice major?
- No. Any student that meets the above requirements can join STOP.
Are STOP members employees of the police department?

No. While STOP members work closely with and under the supervision of the police department, they are not employees.

Is this a paid position?

STOP is currently a volunteer only organization. Recognition is achieved through the Presidents Service Awards, training opportunities, career enhancement, and the satisfaction in knowing that you make a difference.

What hours will STOP work?

The Fall semester hours are as follows: Sundays through Wednesdays will consist of one shift from 9:00 pm to 1:00 am; Thursdays through Saturdays will consist of two shifts 9:00pm to 1:00am AND 11:00 pm to 3:00 am.

What if those hours don’t fit my school/work schedule?

We will have additional hours available for special events such as ISU Football Tailgating.

How will STOP report crimes?

STOP members will be assigned a radio with direct contact to the police department.

Will STOP count as volunteer hours for my class?

It depends on individual faculty members, but the Criminal Justice Dept. has already approved STOP as meeting their volunteer hours requirement.

Will STOP have bicycles or vehicles to use?

Not at this time, though it is being considered.

What role does the STOP Executive Board have?

The Executive Board is responsible for the decisions regarding finance, marketing, recognition awards, and event planning. The board will report to the STOP Advisors.

Who are the STOP Advisors?

STOP advisors are sworn officers selected by the Patrol Commander of the ISU Police Department. The advisors are responsible for the selection and background checks of all applicants, creation of policies and procedures, training, and overall supervision of the STOP program.

How can I apply?

Complete the application located at the top of this page and submit it to the ISU Police.