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University of Utah Safety Updates


The University of Utah’s Department of Public Safety continues to evolve, including new staff, training, and its more visible headquarters on 500 South.

If you’re new to campus, you can learn more about the department’s crime victim advocates and soft interview rooms, updates about public safety policies, emergency management planning, and messages from Chief Safety Officer Keith Squires on the Department of Public Safety’s website.

Public Safety is one of the key places to report interpersonal violence, sexual assault and property crimes that happen on campus or among members of the campus community. Along with the Office of Dean of Students and the Office of Equal Opportunity, Public Safety also responds to reports of sexual harassment and potential hate crimes.

There are both federal and state laws against hate crimes, and as such, University police officers investigate any reports of hate-motivated incidents, threats, and crimes to ensure the safety of our campus community. These incidents are also reviewed by the Office of Equal Opportunity (OEO) to protect student’s rights to equal access to educational opportunities under the Civil Rights Act and the University’s nondiscrimination policies.

“We are committed to the safety, well-being, sense of belonging and success of everyone on campus,” said Squires. “We will continue to track and investigate incidents that violate state and federal laws—such as harassment, hate crimes, violence, threats and incitement. Doing so ensures the safety and dignity of our community and helps us prevent future acts of hate and violence.”

If you’ve experienced or witnessed a hate crime or hate-motivated incident, you can learn more about how to report on the Department of Public Safety’s website.

Hate-motivated incidents and hate crimes not only harm individuals, but can also instill fear across entire communities. Safety planning, counseling, and other support services are available from various entities on campus. More information on support resources available to those who have been impacted by a hate crime/incident can be found on the Department of Public Safety’s FAQ or at SafeU.

Additional updates

The University of Utah implemented several structural changes to comply with a new state law governing diversity efforts on campus.  As a result of HB 261 and guidance from the Utah System of Higher Education (USHE), the University of Utah disbanded the Division of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and related programs and initiatives, including the Racist & Bias Incident Response Team. Looking forward, the University will integrate any future guidance from the Utah System of Higher Education in regards to addressing and reconciling hate speech, free expression, and institutional neutrality on our campus.