Collaboration, experience, safety and service support a welcoming environment
Oakland Community College’s 2025 Public Safety Annual Security Report reflects an exceptionally low incidence of crime across its campuses, an impressive record for one of Michigan’s largest community colleges. The report is testament to the dedication of the members of the College’s Public Safety Department.
According to Chief of Public Safety Rick Leonard, the department’s highest priority is the safety of OCC students, faculty, staff and visitors. The department provides a full range of law enforcement services including crime prevention, emergency medical response, investigations, building and event security, and parking and traffic support.
Regular, visible patrols by vehicle, foot and bicycle, are conducted across all campuses in Auburn Hills, Farmington Hills, Royal Oak, Southfield and Waterford. The department also works in collaboration with the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office and neighboring law enforcement agencies.
Experienced, state-certified officers
Chief Leonard has been in law enforcement for 35 years; most of it spent the Auburn Hills Police Department. He began teaching at the OCC Police Academy in 2005, joined OCC Public Safety full time in 2021 and was appointed Chief in 2023.
“Most of our officers are in the second part of their law enforcement career,” said Leonard. “They are highly trained, state certified and bring deep experience to OCC. Some have served as commanding officers, detectives, evidence technicians or hostage negotiators. That expertise is a tremendous asset to me and the College.”
While crime is low on all OCC campuses, Chief Leonard emphasizes the importance of preparedness. “OCC officers are experienced in handling tense situations and making safe arrests, if necessary. With second-stage careers, they are skilled in what it takes to manage tough issues. Extensive training also ensures a high level of response during emergencies.”
Strong relationships with students
OCC Public Safety is committed to protecting life, property and maintaining order, assuring fair and equal treatment to all, with a service-oriented approach. Officers focus on ensuring the campus community feels safe, and students and employees get the help they need. Respecting OCC’s cultural and ethnic diversity is a core value.
“Our students and employees come from diverse backgrounds; each have had different experiences with law enforcement in their lives,” said Leonard. “We work to shine an encouraging light and build good relationships. Our officers are assigned to one campus and really get to know our students, faculty and staff-it fosters wonderful communications. We have an opportunity to change attitudes on law enforcement and plant a positive seed.”
With more than 3,200 logged contacts in the last year, much of their work is providing public assistance and support.
Student feedback reflects these efforts, reporting that they feel safe and secure on campus.
Technology and regular training enhance safety, keep skills sharp
Public Safety strives to provide a supportive and secure environment, where individuals feel safe to learn, work and visit. This includes a comprehensive, closed-circuit security system throughout all buildings and grounds, body cameras and enhanced patrols and equipment on all campuses. All main campus buildings are also equipped with automatic external defibrillators (AEDs), first aid kits and personal protective equipment.
To remain current on best practices, emerging trends and technology, all officers actively participate in trainings such as first aid/CPR, mental health, hazardous materials, threat assessment, de-escalation techniques and more. Each officer also receives eight hours of mental health training annually, reflecting the growing role of behavioral health in police response.
The department also utilizes the online training platform, Virtual Academy, for high-quality public safety classes, taught by respected members in the field. Closer to home, OCC Public Safety is a member of OakTac, the Oakland County Tactical Response Consortium. All participating officers train using the same equipment and response protocols, insuring efficient and effective coordinated mutual aid, when needed.
OCC Safe app strengthens critical connections
OCC students and employees have immediate access to emergency and safety information and campus police through OCC Safe app. The app provides campus maps and emergency alerts, as well as Public Safety service information such as vehicle jump starts/lockouts, safety escorts, and more. The app also supports resources for suicide intervention, mental health and substance abuse concerns, as well as sexual misconduct issues.
“The OCC Safe app is a fantastic resource,” Leonard said. “The map section is widely used. There is also a popular friend finder to meet someone on campus and for reporting non-emergency situations. There is no sign up required, just download the app and go.”
Planning for the future
OCC’s Public Safety department oversees the law enforcement needs on all campuses and is prepared to grow alongside the College as its programs, course offerings and events expand in the future.
“I look forward to being part of that planning process,” Leonard said. “Our goal is to continue providing an exceptional level of safety and service as OCC plans for the future.’
About OCC
Oakland Community College (OCC) has empowered individuals through education since 1965. Serving more than 20,000 students annually, OCC offers 80+ degree and certificate programs, workforce training and community education programs with flexible class options, low tuition, robust services, and top transfer opportunities. Ranked Michigan’s top online college and seventh nationally by Newsweek’s America’s Top Online Colleges 2025, OCC delivers education that drives opportunity, workforce growth and community impact. Learn more at oaklandcc.edu.
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Media Contact: Marketing & Communications | (248) 341-2020 | contactus@oaklandcc.edu