Law Enforcement & Security

The University of South Carolina Sumter is committed to providing the safest environment for work and study. Part of that commitment involves providing information about campus security to current as well as prospective students and employees.

Be Alert!

At the University of South Carolina Sumter, we want you to stay safe on campus. We encourage you to always be aware of your surroundings, and we've gathered these safety resources to help keep you prepared and informed.

Be Prepared

One of the best ways to protect yourself is to be informed. You never know when urgent news or an emergency situation might arise that could require action on your part. Knowing what you can do to help ensure you do not become a victim of crime is the first step to being safe.

Carolina Alert Emergency Notification System

The Carolina Alert emergency notification system communicates emergency conditions that require immediate awareness or action. Depending on the level of the emergency, the system uses multiple methods, including text messages, social media posts and the sc.edu website, to keep you informed.

SEX CRIMES PREVENTION ACT

Beginning on October 27, 2002, the Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act (CSCPA) went into effect. The CSCPA is a federal law that was passed in Congress in October 2000 and signed by President Bill Clinton. Under this law, registered sex offenders must notify the state if they become employed, enroll as a student or volunteer at an institution of higher education.

Registered sex offenders are individuals who are convicted of committing sexually violent crimes or sexual crimes against minors. Although convicted sex offenders have been required to register with the sheriff’s department in their home county for a number of years, this new legislation creates specific stipulations for those individuals who are members of a College or University community. Under the Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act (CSCPA), when convicted sex offenders register with the sheriff’s department, they must also notify them if they are enrolled or employed at an institution of higher education. This information must then be shared with campus law enforcement.

The information presented is designed to meet the guidelines of the College and University Security Information Act of 1989 and the Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act of 19909. Information concerning University security policies and procedures, crime rates and crime statistics can be obtained from the office of Administrative and Financial Services at (803) 938-3838.

Sexual Offenders Registry

CONCEALED WEAPONS POLICY

The Law Abiding Citizens Self-Defense Act of 1996 provides the requirements for the State Law Enforcement Division to issue permits to allow certain individuals to carry concealed weapons. However, the code is amended by Section 16-23-420 to read: It is unlawful for a person to carry onto any premises or property owned, operated, or controlled by a private or public school, college, university, technical college, other post-secondary institution, or any publicly-owned building a firearm of any kind, without the express permission of the authorities in charge of the premises or property. The USC Sumter campus is posted: No Concealed Weapons. A copy of this bill is available from the Associate Dean for Administrative and Financial Services if there are any questions.

ALCOHOL BEVERAGE AND DRUG POLICY

Students are expected to be acquainted with and abide by state laws and University regulations regarding alcohol and drugs and to be aware of the social, psychological consequences of excessive drinking in order to make responsible and informed decisions about the serving and consumption of alcohol. The University provides educational programs through the Department of Student Life. The University alcohol beverage policy is designed to be consistent with South Carolina laws, which prohibits the unauthorized and/or unlawful possession, consumption and serving of alcoholic beverages by and to person under 21 years of age.

SAFETY REMINDERS

State Law provides that whenever a motor vehicle is being operated on the public streets and highways, all occupants must wear a safety belt. The driver of the vehicle is responsible for making sure that all occupants over the age of 6 and under the age of 17 wear a safety belt.
Use Common Sense. Don't leave personal items unattended, especially your text books.
Always lock your car. Every student must have a current parking permit displayed in their vehicle. Permits are available from the Business Office in the Administration Building.
The white lined spaces are for student parking. Please do not block driveways or fire lanes.