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Federal Law Enforcement FAQ

OCTOBER 17, 2025

This webpage provides information to the University of Chicago community about the potential for increased federal law enforcement or National Guard presence in the city of Chicago.

  • We are closely monitoring the situation but do not expect this action to directly affect the University’s operations.

  • The University of Chicago Police Department (UCPD) is the primary police agency on the University of Chicago’s Hyde Park campus and University property and will continue to serve in this capacity. Within the extended patrol boundaries (off campus and outside of University property), the UCPD will continue to serve in a supportive role to the Chicago Police Department, which is the primary policing agency.

  • The University of Chicago cooperates with outside agencies as required by law, while protecting the rights and privacy of students, faculty, and staff.

    • REMAIN CALM and courteous. 
    • WHEN PRACTICAL, ASK FOR IDENTIFICATION — including Name and Agency Affiliation (take a photo/make a copy of this information and/or request a business card).
    • STATE WILLINGNESS TO COOPERATE — Mention that as a matter of University protocol, you will be contacting the appropriate offices at the University to assist.
    • NOTIFY UCPD — Contact the UCPD at 773-702-8181.
    • An additional contact for members of the University community is the Office of International Affairs at 773-702-7752.

  • Outside law enforcement personnel generally are permitted to access otherwise open, publicly accessible areas of the University. Without a search warrant, they do not have a right to access non-public spaces. If outside personnel seek to access non-public areas, be courteous and contact UCPD.

  • Notify UCPD at 773.702.8181 if the incident occurred within the UCPD’s patrol area.

  • UChicago Student Wellness has numerous resources for students, including:

    • Students may call 773.702.3625 to reach our Therapist-on-Call, who is available 24/7 to discuss students' concerns and determine next steps for support.

    • Students have access to TimelyCare's 24/7 on-demand service, TalkNow.

    • Let's Talk is a program that provides easy access to informal and confidential sessions with therapists from UChicago Student Wellness. There's no need for an appointment and no costs to students.

    Visit UChicago Student Wellness for more information.

  • Visit the Department of Safety & Security’s website for comprehensive information about safety at UChicago. You can also visit uchicago.edu/safety for safety tips on and around campus. We also encourage you to download the UChicago Safe mobile app and follow UChicago Safe on X, Instagram, and Facebook.

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