The University of South Dakota Police Department (UPD) is the official, full-service law enforcement agency for the university. Our department is staffed by 15 certified police officers, three professional dispatchers, and dedicated student employees who assist with parking enforcement and campus events. Together, we provide comprehensive safety services to the USD community.

UPD is more than just a campus security team—we are a professional law enforcement agency. All of our officers are full-time, sworn, and deputized as Vermillion Police Officers. Each officer meets the rigorous certification standards of the South Dakota Law Enforcement Standards and Training Commission and completes ongoing professional development throughout the year. This includes advanced training in areas such as criminal investigations, crisis intervention, sexual assault response, active shooter preparedness, firearms, domestic violence investigations, and many other specialized fields.

Our officers are equipped with the same training, authority, and resources as municipal police officers, ensuring that we can respond to any incident on campus with professionalism and expertise. In addition, our dispatchers are highly trained to manage emergency communications, coordinate responses, and serve as a vital link between the community and law enforcement resources.

UPD works in close partnership with the Vermillion Police Department, Clay County Sheriff’s Office, South Dakota Highway Patrol, and other regional agencies, as well as local social service organizations. These collaborations allow us to provide seamless law enforcement services while also connecting students, faculty, and staff to important support resources.

Above all, UPD is committed to fostering a safe, welcoming, and supportive campus environment. We take pride in being a trusted partner for our community and in delivering the highest standards of professionalism, accountability, and service.

Crime Statistics 

In compliance with federal law, the University of South Dakota prepares an annual report on campus safety, security programs and services. Originally enacted in 1990, the federal law was amended in 1998 and renamed the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act.

Clery Compliance

• USD Fire Safety Security Report (Clery)
• Duty to Report Suspected Crime (Policy 7.002)
• CSA Report Form

Sex Offender Registry

• Clay County, SD (Vermillion) Sex Offender Registry

Drug-Free Schools and Campuses Review

• USD Drug-Free Schools and Campuses Act Biennial Review
• Drug Free School and Campuses Act Annual Notification