How campus security changed due to national attacks

The 9/11 attacks provoked fear and uncertainty across the U.S. In the years since, safety measures were taken more seriously as the nation strived to increase security at places like airports, sports venues and schools.

In addition to existing security tools, Richland's campus police department has implemented more procedures, policies (called general orders) and training for officers, faculty and students since the terrorist attacks.

Because college campuses have not been prime targets for terrorist attacks, Robert Baker, Richland chief of police, said that the campus' security procedures changed more as a result of the 2007 Virginia Tech shooting than the 9/11 attacks.

"We don't see a credible threat to this college, although we are vigilant," Baker said. "Our student body is quite diverse. Some [people] have different feelings [and] thoughts, so we are always watching things very closely."

Baker was a police officer at Cedar Valley College and served as the director of the college's police academy when the 9/11 attacks occurred.

"We didn't expect any threats to happen to that college at that time, but we still increased the number of officers on campus," Baker said. "We had to make ourselves visible. The idea, of course, is to maintain the peace in our jurisdiction, meaning that we have to give everyone the feeling and understanding that we are there to help and protect them."

The FBI has campus liaisons that have been working and coordinating with the campus police department. Baker met with the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force on Aug. 26 and determined that there were no credible threats to Richland at that time.

Since 9/11's 10th anniversary falls on a Sunday, exposure on the campus is reduced. However, Baker said that there will be heightened security and emergency operation plans in place for the next month in case something goes wrong. The FBI will also have an operation center that the police department can contact in case the campus needs immediate assistance.

"We had these procedures in place back in the ‘90s too, but we are much more aware of the possibility of incidents now," Baker said. "We have better officers, radio, equipment – everything to ensure that students, faculty and staff are protected."

Despite many potential threats to the U.S., Richland has never faced any significant danger or gone into lockdown. According to an annual survey for the police department, students and teachers generally feel that they are secure and safe in the event of any on-campus emergency.

"Anything can be a threat," Baker said. "We're an open campus, so that means anyone can walk in and they can carry anything with them. The important thing is for us to remain vigilant and aware of it all."