Brookdale students shared coffee and popcorn with Monmouth County Sherrif officers Sept. 13 in the Student Life Center’s Martin Luther King Lounge.
The event gave students a chance to meet and get to know the officers who patrol the campus. The on-campus Sheriff’s Office operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They have an office in the BAC building specifically to serve the needs of the college community.
Sgt. Daniel Ceparano explained that “Coffee with Cops,” which includes the office of Conduct and Compliance, will be held 11:45 a.m. Wednesdays once a month at different campus locations to encourage students to ask questions, voice concerns and share ideas.
The final fall semester date for “Coffee with Cops” is Dec. 13 in the SLC MLK Lounge.
“I would highly recommend students come out to one of the upcoming dates, and we can provide one-on-one advice and safety suggestions,” Ceparano said. “Students may be intimidated or afraid to speak up in a larger group, but here, there’s no speeches or agendas. We just hope to engage with Brookdale students and address any concerns they may have.”
While the students enjoyed the coffee and conversations with the Sherrif’s Department officers, the star of the event was the black Labrador K-9 Harley, partner to Officer Daniel Marcus. Marcus has been a K-9 officer for six years.
As students gathered around the friendly K-9, Harley eagerly welcomed the attention and even rolled over for belly rubs.
“But make no mistake, K-9 Harley is a working dog,” Marcus said. “She specializes in explosive odors detection and is able to detect 32 different odors from chemicals that are utilized to make explosive devices.”
For example, Rutgers uses Harley’s explosive detection skills in their stadium before and/or during football games, Marcus said. The officers do a sweep of the premises and work alongside New Brunswick and Rutgers police at the games.
How to contact the Sheriff’s Office:
On-Campus Phone
In an emergency, dial 911 or in a non-emergency, 2222 from any on-campus phone.
Off-Campus Phones
In an emergency dial 911, or in a non-emergency, 732-224-2222.
Emergency Phones around Campus
There are 21 white emergency push button call towers identified by blue lights located throughout the campus. Press the large red button in the tower to activate emergency notification to the on-campus Sheriff’s Officer, who will respond whether or not a message is transmitted.
