The HUPD's relationship with the community is vital to achieve our mission. All community members should expect to be treated in a courteous and professional manner by members of the Department. Occasionally questions arise regarding professional conduct. The Harvard University Police Department does not tolerate employees who act unprofessionally or rudely, or who do not seek to provide an appropriate level of service. The quality of our service is dependent in part on feedback from the community, and the Department has an extensive process in place to respond to citizen complaints.
We also wish to recognize instances where our employees have been especially helpful or have exceeded your expectations in the service that they have provided. The community is encouraged to bring to the Department's attention both compliments and questions of professionalism by contacting one of the following individuals in a timely manner:
- the on-duty supervisor at 617-495-1786 (available 24 hours a day)
- the Office of the Chief at 617-495-1780 (Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM)
Additionally, community members can commend or make a complaint against an officer online. Community members may include their name and email address or do it anonymously. Anonymous complaints will be investigated but the investigation may be limited if the complainant is not available for followup questioning.
Complete this form to commend an officer.
Complete this form to make a complaint against an officer.
Harvard Ombuds Office
The Harvard Ombuds Office is open to the University Community: faculty, staff, students, fellows and retirees. The Ombuds is an independent resource for problem resolution and works to ensure that all members of the University community are treated equitably and fairly. The Ombuds is confidential, independent, and neutral. The Ombuds can provide informal assistance to help resolve issues related to the workplace, learning, and law enforcement environments. The Ombuds Office is able to field concerns regarding a particular situation or incident, and can encourage and facilitate discussion and possible resolution among parties. An individual or individuals may want to discuss the issue with the Ombuds, meet with other parties, or file a formal complaint with HUPD. The Ombuds also works with senior administration and HUPD leadership to provide upward feedback for the institution and, based on reported concerns, may recommend changes in policy, practice, or training.
You may contact the Ombuds Office by phone at 617-495-7748 or by email at ombuds_cambridge@harvard.edu.