Maintaining a Safe and Secure Setting for All
The University Police Department (UPD) is responsible for law enforcement, security, disaster planning and emergency response at FGCU. We work with the entire university community to provide a safe and secure environment that enables everyone to achieve their academic goals and enjoy the FGCU experience.
We provide reliable high-quality professional service at all times. In addition to
promoting crime prevention, we ensure safety for both vehicle and pedestrian traffic
and assist in coordinating special events.
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| Chief Kowalski and Lieutenant Targia presented FGCU student Ashley Ames with a certificate of appreciation recognizing her creativity and skill in designing the graphics that appear on the new UPD vehicles. | |
CHECK FOR CURRENT CAREER OPPORTUNITIES BY CLICKING BELOW:
Police Services
Serves the campus with 24-hour law enforcement services including an Investigations Unit, Community Relations Unit, and Patrol Unit.
Support Services
Serves the campus with a 24-hour Dispatch Center, Records Manager, Training Unit, Internal Affairs, Parking Services and Accreditation.
Clery Compliance
FGCU is committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for the entire campus community. Through training, educational awareness, and data-driven assessment, the University will remain vigilant in creating a campus culture where everyone can safely live, work, and thrive in the FGCU academic environment.
Meet UPD
UPD includes 21 sworn law enforcement officers and 13 civilian personnel in three divisions to serve and protect our campus.
Emergency Management
Prepares FGCU by enhancing partnerships and coordinating all activities to mitigate, protect, and prevent; respond to; and recover from natural, technological, and human-caused threats and hazards.
Alerts and Notices
The Police Department, in conjunction with other university departments or local law enforcement agencies will issue campus alerts and notices promptly when an incident occurs and is considered a serious or continuing threat to students or employees.
Public Records Request for Law Enforcement Records:
Threat Assessment & Management Team
FGCU cultivates a secure community within a supportive and accessible living, learning and working environment. It is standard practice on university campuses to promote safety through a Threat Assessment & Management Team (TAMT) empowered to investigate, assess and manage risks of violence by any troubled community member.
Quick Links to Services
THREAT ASSESSMENT TEAMCAMPUS NOTICE AND ALERTSActive Shooter Plan
OBTAIN A CRASH REPORT
FLHSMV* OBTAIN A CRASH REPORT LEXISNEXISDAILY CRIME LOGS & ANNUAL REPORTS
RAVE GUARDIAN APP INFORMATIONDOWNLOAD RAVE GUARDIAN-APPLEDOWNLOAD RAVE GUARDIAN-ANDROID
*Reports are available directly from FLHSMV (FL. Dept. of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles) after 10 days.
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January 2025
Toggle More InfoJanuary 31, 2025
Dear FGCU Community,
In order to enhance the parking experience of students, faculty and staff, Parking Services has installed digital signs at the entrance of Parking Garages 1, 2, 3, 4 and B. These digital signs display the number of parking spaces available (in green) or display if the parking garage is full (in red).
Although the signs are currently displaying live data, we are still in the testing phase to ensure accuracy and that the systems are working properly. Testing is anticipated to be completed in the following weeks. Once complete, additional information will be provided, including how to access the real-time parking data.
If you have any questions, contact Parking Services at parking@fgcu.edu or 239-590-1912.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
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March 2025
Toggle More InfoMarch 10, 2025
Dear FGCU Community,Parking Services has completed the testing phase of the digital parking availability signs found at the entrance of Parking Garages 1, 2, 3, 4 and B. These digital signs display the number of parking spaces available (in green) or display if the parking garage is full (in red).In addition to these digital signs, students and employees can now view parking garage availability in real time through the Parking Services website. Click here to view. This aims to help drivers save time when searching for parking by making the information available to them before arriving on campus.How does it work? With a 97% accuracy rating, the system provides a count of every vehicle that enters a parking garage and deducts every vehicle that exits the garage. This also applies to golf carts. If a golf cart is driven through a vehicle entrance, it must exit through a vehicle exit in order to keep an accurate parking space count. If you have any questions, contact Parking Services at parking@fgcu.edu or 239-590-1912.Wings Up & Go Eagles!March 10, 2025The link to the parking garage availability website is missing below. Please use this link: https://www.fgcu.edu/parkingservices/garage-availability -
May 2025
Toggle More InfoMay 5, 2025
Dear FGCU Community,
Parking Garage B in South Village will be closed for cleaning May 12-19.During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the garage to allow for the necessary maintenance work to be completed. All vehicles should be removed by May 11 to ensure that the cleaning process can begin. Failure to remove vehicles during this cleaning period may result in parking citations or towing of vehicles.We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding and cooperation in keeping our campus facilities clean and well-maintained. Use FGCU’s real-time garage availability tracker for help finding a parking spot on campus.If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Parking Services at parking@fgcu.edu or (239) 590-1912.May 30, 2025
Dear FGCU Community,
Parking Garage B in South Village will be closed June 6-8 for a paint refresh of the directional arrows and parking space lines.During this time, all vehicles must be removed from the garage to allow for the necessary maintenance work to be completed. All vehicles should be removed by June 5 to ensure the work can begin promptly. Failure to remove vehicles may result in parking citations or towing of vehicles.We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding and cooperation in keeping our campus facilities well-maintained. Use FGCU’s real-time garage availability tracker for help finding a parking spot on campus during this time.If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Parking Services at parking@fgcu.edu or call us at (239) 590-1912. -
July 2025
Toggle More InfoJuly 1, 2025
Dear FGCU Staff and Faculty,
The Florida Board of Governors (BOG) approved changes to FGCU’s parking fees and fines. Below is a summary of changes:- Annual faculty/staff lot parking fee: $124 (previously $118)
- Annual faculty/staff reserved space parking fee: $562 (previously $535)
- Optional: Front license plate: $50 (one-time charge)
- Parking in a fire lane/and or blocking a fire hydrant – $75 fine
- Citation appeal fee – $10. If the appeal is granted, the $10 fee will be returned.
- Wheel lock device or boot – $100 fine (previously $30)
In addition to these changes, the FGCU Board of Trustees (BOT) approved enforcement of the university’s head-in parking policy and implementation of a new virtual parking permit system under Regulation 8.005 – Parking Guidelines.Head-In Parking RequirementAll vehicles parked on campus must park head-in. Failure to do so may result in a citation. This policy has been in effect at FGCU since 2015 and is consistent with similar parking regulations at 11 out of 12 State University System of Florida institutions.To ease the transition into head-in parking:- During the summer period (now until August 17, 2025) only warnings will be issued.
- During the first 14 calendar days of each semester, no citations (only warnings) will be issued.
- For the fall 2025 semester, first- and second-time violations of the rule will be issued a warning as part of an extended grace period.
- Optional: Students and employees who wish to back into parking spaces on campus can purchase a front license plate for $50 through Parking Services. This plate allows you to back into a parking space while complying with regulations.
Virtual Parking Permit- Each vehicle must be registered with a valid virtual parking permit.
- All hangtag parking permits expire August 31, 2025, regardless of the expiration date.
Permit renewal emails will be sent on August 1 with instructions on how to purchase a virtual parking permit and the optional front license plate.University parking regulations can be found on the Parking Services website. If you have any questions, contact Parking Services at parking@fgcu.edu or (239) 590-1912.July 2, 2025Dear Employees,
We are following up on the Eagle Alert that was sent last week regarding bear sightings near the North Lake Village area of campus.Throughout this process, we have been working with experts from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). On July 1, FWC staff successfully trapped and relocated a bear from campus to a more suitable habitat.Improper disposal of trash can further attract bears to the area. Please continue to place your trash in the disposal compactors located throughout campus. Do not place trash bags in breezeways or open dumpsters.We encourage you to continue exercising caution as you navigate campus, especially boardwalks, pathways and facilities located near our conservation areas and preserves. In the event of a bear encounter, FWC provides the following guidance:-
If you see a bear from a distance of 50 feet or more, slowly back away without turning your back to it.
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If you are in close proximity to the bear, raise your arms above your head to appear larger, and make noise while slowly backing away.
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Never run, as this may trigger a chase response.
If you see a bear, or any other animal on campus, immediately report its location to UPD by calling (239) 590-1900. -
2024
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July
Toggle More InfoJuly 24, 2024
Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff,
We'd like to let you know about an upcoming bicycle removal initiative on the main campus.
Beginning this week, any bicycles found abandoned or left unattended on campus will be tagged with yellow tape. This tagging process is in preparation for removing the abandoned property, which will be done on August 5th. Any bicycles removed will be held at UPD for 30 days and then donated to a local nonprofit organization as per Florida State Statute.
If your bicycle is tagged for removal because you forgot to register it, please remove the tag and contact UPD so we can register it.
If you have any questions, please contact the University Police Department at 239-590-1900.
We greatly appreciate your cooperation in maintaining a clean and safe campus environment.
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August
Toggle More InfoAugust 13, 2024
Parking permits are now available for the 2024-25 school year. All faculty, staff, OPS non-students and adjuncts who regularly operate a motor vehicle on university property must register their vehicle, purchase and display a parking permit in their vehicle.
Current parking permits (sliver color) expire August 31. Avoid the rush and purchase your permit now. Permits for new hires will not be available for purchase until the day after their official start date.
Log onto the FGCU Parking Portal to purchase your permit. Click here for a step-by-step guide. If your permit type (OPS, adjunct, LEED, reserve, reserve LEED, award) is not available, contact Parking Services at parking@fgcu.edu or call (239)-590-1912.
Payment Details: 3 Options
A permit will not be issued unless payment or payroll deduction information has been received by Parking Services. There are three options to pay:· Payroll deduction: Payroll deduction payments for the 2024-25 permit will start in September. The option is only available for annual or reserved parking permits for full-time employees. OPS non-students and adjuncts are not eligible for the payroll deduction payment option.
· Payroll authorization: Must be completed through your parking portal payment choice. Starting in September, the parking permit fee will be deducted over 24 pay periods.
· Credit card: Payment by credit card is completed through your parking portal payment choice.
Obtaining a Permit: 2 Options
· Interoffice mail: Send Parking Services a printed copy of your parking permit receipt (emailed to your university email) in an interoffice envelope with your UIN and return address written on your receipt. Once processed, your permit will be returned through interoffice mail.
· In person: Visit Parking Services in McTarnaghan Hall, Enrollment Services Center, Room 120, and show your University ID.
Application for and acceptance of a permit shall be deemed an acknowledgment of the requirements and agreement to adhere to the parking regulations. Please review the Parking Services website and the FGCU's parking regulations prior to parking on campus.
If you have any questions, please direct them to parking@fgcu.edu or call (239) 590-1912.
August 14, 2024
2024-25 Student Parking Permits Available for Purchase
Student parking permits are now available for the 2024-25 school year. All students are required to have a parking permit displayed in their vehicle any time they park on campus.
Current commuter student parking permits (orange) expire August 31. Avoid the long lines and pick up your permits now!
How to Request a Permit
Log into the FGCU Parking Portal.
Click here for a step-by-step guide.
Returning students: Please review your permit/decal’s expiration date prior to applying for a new permit.
If your permit type is not available (such as motorcycle), contact Parking Services at parking@fgcu.edu or call (239)-590-1912.
How to Pick Up Your PermitOnce the purchase is complete, you will receive an email receipt with your permit/decal number.
Bring your receipt and Eagle ID to Parking Services (located on the first floor of McTarnaghan Hall) to pick up your permit/decal. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Questions?
Application for and acceptance of a permit shall be deemed an acknowledgment of the requirements and agreement to adhere to the parking regulations. Please review the Parking Services website and the FGCU's parking regulations prior to parking on campus.Contact Parking Services at parking@fgcu.edu or (239)-590-1912.
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September
Toggle More InfoSeptember 17, 2024
Good afternoon,FGCU wants to remind staff and faculty to remain vigilant of phone scams where cybercriminals attempt to gain access to confidential information. This is often referred to as social engineering attacks.In the workplace, social engineering attacks can come in the form of a phone call where the caller pretends to be a trusted employee requesting information. Often, the caller is able to provide some verification information. In higher education, they may request information like a university ID number, or UIN.To help protect yourself and the wider FGCU community, please use these safety tips when asked for confidential information:- Verify the Source: Always double-check the identity of the person or organization contacting you. If you receive an unexpected request for sensitive information, verify it through a known and trusted channel.
- Be Skeptical of Urgent Requests: Cybercriminals often create a sense of urgency to pressure you into making quick decisions. Take your time to evaluate the situation. If in doubt, consult with the ITS Help desk at helpdesk@fgcu.edu or (239) 590-1188.
- Report It: Social engineering attacks are criminal activity. If you feel you have received a call like this at work, be sure to report it to UPD at (239) 590-1900. We greatly appreciate your cooperation keeping campus safe.
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October
Toggle More InfoOctober 1, 2024Dear FGCU Family,Florida Gulf Coast University publishes an Annual Security Report and Fire Safety Report to provide information regarding campus safety and security policies, crime statistics, fire statistics for on-campus housing, and resources for current and prospective students and employees.This report, attached to this email, is produced in accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of the Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act). It includes statistics for the previous three years concerning crimes reported to the University Police Department and Campus Security Authorities that occurred on campus, non-campus locations, and on public property adjacent to and accessible from campus. This report also includes campus policies concerning crime prevention, crime reporting, alcohol and drug use, sexual misconduct, student discipline, and fire safety.The document includes the 2024 Alcohol & Drug Annual Notification. The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Amendments of 1989 and the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 require institutions of higher education to distribute information on an annual basis that includes standards of conduct, legal sanctions and penalties, health risks, resources, and discipline. Please take a moment to read the notification within the 2024 Annual Security Report and Fire Safety Report, starting on page 34, and click on the relevant links.FGCU is an alcohol- and drug-free campus and workplace. This initiative is intended to support a safe and productive living, learning, and working environment for all faculty, staff, and students.UPD encourages all employees and students to review the 2024 Annual Security Report and Fire Safety Report, which is also posted online at https://www.fgcu.edu/upd/clerycompliance. A hard copy of this report may also be requested by contacting UPD at (239) 590-1926 or in person at the Campus Support Complex during business hours.Wings Up & Go Eagles!
October 29, 2024The FGCU Police Department, in partnership with Heroes Unmasked, is collecting unwrapped toys, gift cards and monetary donations for its 7th Annual Toy Drive.This year’s toy drive will once again feature a competition among faculty, staff and students to see who can collect the greatest number of unwrapped toys, gift cards or money. If your group, organization or department would like to participate, please email Joe Anderson at janderson@fgcu.edu. The winners in each category will receive a plaque, and all other participants will receive a certificate.Donation boxes are available now and will be delivered and set up by UPD. The donation drive ends December 20. We are asking members of the FGCU community to dig deep, be generous and help us support this great cause.Wings Up & Go Eagles! -
November
Toggle More InfoNovember 5, 2024Hello Fellow Eagles,
Ensuring the safety and security of Florida Gulf Coast University’s students, staff, faculty and visitors is our top priority. Over the coming months, you will notice enhancements to campus security measures and law enforcement presence at FGCU. Among these efforts is the addition of OPENGATE®, a walkthrough weapon detection system that will be used at Alico Arena.
The OPENGATE® system will be used at Alico Arena for basketball games starting November 13.Unlike traditional metal detector gates, OPENGATE® allows for faster screening of individuals with bags, backpacks and purses. OPENGATE® is also used by Lee County Schools, Suncoast Credit Union Arena and numerous other locations across the state and country. While it might take a bit of getting used to, we are confident it won't cause significant delays and will enhance our protective measures.If OPENGATE® detects any prohibited items, a secondary search will be conducted, with security and law enforcement personnel taking appropriate action as needed.We also remind you of our ongoing practice of limiting items that can be brought into Alico Arena, as outlined in the Gameday Guide. This practice ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as UPD enhances our campus safety measures. -
December
Toggle More InfoDecember 6, 2024
CRIME ALERTDATE: December 5, 2024Crime alerts are posted in an effort to make the FGCU community aware of any situation that poses a potential threat to the safety and well-being of those who live, work and visit the campus. By keeping you aware of crimes occurring in your campus community, the FGCU Police Department encourages you to become actively involved in crime prevention. Personal safety practices and knowledge are your best defense against crime. This alert has been approved by the FGCU Police Chief and is intended to promote safety on campus and comply, in part, with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security and Campus Crime Statistics Act of 1990.REPORTED OFFENSE - Social Media ThreatThis evening, on December 5, 2024, the FGCU Police Department received knowledge of a threat on the social media platform, Snapchat, stating harm to the FGCU campus. UPD, in conjunction with Lee County Sherriff’s Office, Fort Myers Police Department and the FBI, identified the suspect who was arrested. Currently, the suspect is detained and there is no ongoing threat to campus.SUSPECT DESCRIPTION:N/ASAFETY TIPS/CRIME PREVENTION TIPS:• Report any suspicious activity to the FGCU Police Department• Use the chat feature on the Eagle Guardian App to send pictures, text FGCU Dispatch or dial 911• Provide information to police regarding suspect(s) or vehicle(s)• If you see something, say something!REPORTING RESOURCES:Report any suspicious activity to FGCU PD at (239) 590-1900
December 17, 2024
Dear Eagles,FGCU students, staff and faculty have until Friday to participate in the FGCU Police Department’s 7th Annual Toy Drive.Through this event, UPD is collecting unwrapped toys, gift cards and monetary donations in partnership with Heroes Unmasked.The toy drive is also a competition: The FGCU group, organization or department that fills their box with the most donations will receive a plaque, and all other participants will receive a certificate. Contact Joe Anderson at janderson@fgcu.edu for more information on where you can find a donation box on campus.Wings Up & Go Eagles!
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University Police Department
Campus Support Complex (North Side)
10501 FGCU Blvd. S.
Fort Myers, FL 33965
Police Emergency: 239-590-1900
Fire/Medical Emergency: 911
Non-Emergency: 239-590-1900
Fax: 239-590-1910
