Public Safety News and Photos – Office of Public Safety

The Office of Public Safety is proud to announce that Captain Christopher Coons has officially become a Certified Clery Compliance Officer through the National Association of Clery Compliance Officers and Professionals (NACCOP).

This prestigious certification is the result of a rigorous, year-long program focused on ensuring compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act. Captain Coons successfully completed the training and passed the final assessment, demonstrating both his deep commitment to federal compliance and his continued leadership in campus safety.

We are incredibly proud of Captain Coons for this accomplishment. His dedication to professional development and mastery of Clery-related responsibilities exemplify how our department strives for excellence every day.

Please join us in congratulating Captain Coons on this well-earned achievement!

On Tuesday, May 6, 2025 Campus Police Officer Matthew Ennis was honored as the Officer of the Year for the Office of Public Safety at the annual St. Mary's County Law Enforcement Appreciation Day ceremony. The event hosted by the Commissioners of St. Mary's County, The Department of Aging and Human Services, and Triad/SALT honors law enforcement officers from across St. Mary's County. The event also takes time to remember law enforcement officers from across the United States who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of their communities.

Congratulations to Officer Matthew Ennis and all of the other Officer of the year recipients.

On April 30, 2025 The Office of Public Safety is stood with Title IX in support of Denim Day. A campaign to support Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

“Why denim? Because in the 1990’s, an Italian court overturned a rape conviction because the survivor was wearing tight jeans -claiming she must’ve helped remove them, implying consent. The very next day, the women in the Italian Parliament came to work in jeans in solidarity with the victim.”

Stand up against sexual assault and victim blaming.

Available resources https://www.smcm.edu/title-ix-office/resources/.

During April 2025, Captain Chris Coons, Officer Dave Turner from Public Safety, and Rachel Louden from the Wellness Center provided CPR/AED/First Aid training to students. Each student completed a blended learning course that consisted of an online module and an in-person skill session. Funding for this training was provided by the SMCM Student Government Association which allowed total of 42 students to receive a 2 year certification from the American Red Cross at no cost. Look for more opportunities to become certified during the fall semester.

Sergeant Thomas Briscoe Graduates the Crisis Intervention Team Training.

Last week, Sergeant Briscoe joined First Responders from the Southern Maryland region for this 40 hour training course. The training equips first responders with invaluable insights into managing behavioral health crises. Through this program, responders gain crucial skills in de-escalation and crisis recognition, ensuring the safety of both themselves and those in crisis while facilitating access to necessary assistance.

The training was facilitated by a diverse team of instructors, subject matter experts, and guest speakers who provided comprehensive guidance and support throughout the course.

Congratulations to Sergeant Briscoe and thank you to the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office and the Southern Maryland Crisis Intervention Team for providing this valuable training.