SFCC’s hectic quarterly event cycle puts pressure on the security team to provide the best possible protection for their students. That idea is cemented by how officers go about their job with reports, tips, and a dedicated training process.
Spokane Colleges Director of District Security Ken Demello was asked about whether the security personnel locations vary across campus locations.
“Our security services and response protocols are consistent across all locations,” said Demello. “The only variation may occur in off-site areas, where response times can be affected by the physical distance between the location and the nearest available security officer.”
DeMello explained how the security handles incidents if events with a large crowd were to get out of hand.
“Each event is assessed through a security lens to ensure the safety of our students while also supporting a positive experience for guest speakers engaging with our campus community,” Demello wrote. “Just as we expect respectful and courteous behavior from our students and staff, we also ask that all visitors uphold the standards set forth by SFCC and Spokane Colleges’ policies.”
Campus Security Sergeant Shawn Pichette also addressed situations involving a guest speaker and crowd.
“Events with a large group or guest speaker require a lot of planning,” he said. “We’ll make sure that there are more staff on premises during those events.”
Campus Security Officer Anthony Arroyo talks about his schedule during his training.
“I’m able to go here for my classes,” Arroyo said. “It’s good being able to go onto the field.”
According to a Campus Security Report on Sept. 19, security personnel responded to an active crime on campus.
“Spokane Falls Community College Security (SFCC Security) responded to a disturbance at the Financial Aid front desk (Building 17) involving a student, who was using profanity and showing signs of alcohol use,” the report stated. “The student admitted to drinking before arriving on campus. SFCC Security escorted the student off the property, where the student departed on STA Bus 36.”
An Oct. 16 crime report demonstrated the security team’s reaction to drug usage on campus. Their approach to the situation reflected their consistency.
“SFCC Security observed a student slumping over in car in Lot 3 with suspected drug paraphernalia in his lap,” the report stated. “After repeated knocks, the student awoke, became verbally aggressive. Officers advised him to leave or law enforcement would be contacted. The student departed, displaying obscene gestures while exiting the property.”
DeMello closes by talking about his security team, and how they contribute to the campus wellbeing.
“I expect our security officers to be supportive and approachable, while also ensuring that our community members understand and adhere to the expectations of respectful conduct and compliance with Spokane Colleges’ policies.We are and I am fortunate to have a highly responsive, professional, and community-focused team of Security Officers here at SFCC,” DeMello wrote. “Their dedication to service and safety is truly commendable, and I’m extremely proud to work alongside such an outstanding group. Lucky me!”
