St. Petersburg College has established its own sworn police department, becoming the eighth state college in Florida’s State College System to have its own sworn police department. The new force adds commissioned officers to the school’s existing security operations, granting direct access to law enforcement information and empowering staff to independently investigate campus incidents.
St. Petersburg College Launches Internal Police Force
The newly formed St. Petersburg College Police Department officially launched following extensive planning and approval from the SPC Board of Trustees in October 2025, followed by formal authorization this summer. Chief Andrew MacPherson, who also serves as SPC’s associate vice president of safety, security, and emergency management, stated that the department aims to build stronger connections with students while streamlining response times. MacPherson began his career as a reserve deputy sheriff in Texas before moving into higher education security, where he has worked for over two decades. A ceremonial swearing-in for the department’s initial leadership took place earlier this month.
Currently, MacPherson and Deputy Chief Tracy Smith operate as the agency’s two sworn officers. College leadership intends to expand the department by hiring five additional sworn officers over the coming year, budget permitting. The new department does not replace the college’s existing campus security staff of approximately 30 armed and non-armed personnel. Instead, security officers will maintain their daily routines—such as building unlocks, community engagement, and taking minor reports—while turning criminal investigations over to the sworn police force.
Expanded Legal Access and State Security Mandates
Operating an internal police department provides SPC personnel with direct access to law enforcement information, including criminal histories and background checks. According to MacPherson, this immediate data access allows officers to respond more rapidly and effectively assist students affected by crime.
The creation of the department also aligns with state legislation passed earlier this year. House Bill 757, enacted in May, expands security measures across Florida’s public postsecondary institutions. The statute mandates active assailant response plans, family reunification procedures, and threat management teams designed to evaluate potential risks. These mandated threat management teams must include a law enforcement officer. By establishing an internal agency, SPC ensures that participating officers possess direct familiarity with campus layouts and internal records.
Addressing Campus Challenges and Operations
Beyond emergency preparedness, the new police force will handle persistent public safety issues across college facilities. MacPherson noted that behavioral incidents at SPC public libraries frequently required campus security to contact municipal police agencies to issue criminal trespass notices and remove offenders. The dedicated department will now manage these interventions directly.
SPC president Dr. Tonjua Williams stated that the investment prioritizes a secure and supportive learning environment for students, employees, and the surrounding community. College officials confirmed that existing emergency protocols and public safety contact methods remain unchanged for students and staff. While uniformed officers and marked police vehicles will become a visible presence on campus, local municipal partners will continue to collaborate with the institution.
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