Security Camera System
Trinity College deploys video surveillance cameras throughout campus to promote the safety and security of students, faculty, staff, visitors, and property. Cameras may be located at or near entrances and exits of residence halls, administrative and academic buildings, parking facilities, and other campus facilities, as well as in outdoor areas, walkways, roadways, and other common areas of campus.
The College conducts an annual campus safety and security audit to evaluate existing safety measures and identify areas where security measures may be enhanced. As a result of this ongoing review, additional cameras may be installed, or existing cameras relocated, according to security needs. Camera locations may therefore change or expand as campus facilities, operations, and safety needs to evolve.
Video surveillance is used for legitimate safety and security purposes, including assisting with the prevention and investigation of criminal activity, responding to emergencies and incidents, protecting people and property, and supporting the enforcement of applicable College policies.
The College respects the privacy of members of the campus community. Cameras are not intended to monitor individuals based solely on protected characteristics, personal appearance, or membership in a particular organization or group. Cameras are not installed in areas where individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy, including restrooms, locker rooms, or similar areas intended for personal comfort or the reasonable safeguarding of personal possessions.
Access to and use of recorded video is restricted to authorized personnel and is governed by applicable College policies as well as federal and Connecticut law.
Q&A
Who watches the cameras and who can view recorded material?
Cameras are routinely monitored by trained Campus Safety and Administrative staff. Recorded material will be viewed at the discretion of the Director of Campus Safety (or as delegated) for legitimate investigative reasons. No one other than trained Campus Safety and Administrative staff may operate the system without express permission from the Director of Campus Safety.
Concerns regarding the misuse of the video surveillance system should be reported promptly to the Director of Campus Safety, the General Counsel and Secretary of the College, or Assistant Vice President of Human Resources for review and appropriate action.
How does the College protect individual privacy?
Trinity College recognizes and respects the privacy interests of members of the campus community. Campus Safety and Administrative personnel who operate or access the video surveillance system are trained regarding applicable legal and ethical standards governing its use. Monitoring stations are located within designated Campus Safety areas and are accessible only to authorized personnel.
Video surveillance is intended to identify and respond to legitimate safety and security concerns. Personnel are not permitted to intentionally track or monitor individuals without a legitimate safety, security, or investigative purpose. Camera coverage does not include individual rooms or other areas where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy, and cameras will not be used for such purposes.
Can an individual be subject to disciplinary action based on observations made on video?
Yes. Video recordings may be used to investigate and document conduct that violates the law or Trinity College policies and may be considered in appropriate disciplinary or investigative proceedings.
The video surveillance system is not intended to routinely monitor students or employees who are engaged in lawful activities or performing their normal duties. Cameras are not intended to be used by supervisors for routine employee performance monitoring. However, video may be reviewed as part of an investigation involving a safety or security concern, including incidents involving the loss of or damage to College property.
The video surveillance system is intended to supplement traditional Campus Safety patrol and response efforts by extending the areas and activities that authorized personnel can observe. Its use does not replace the professional judgment, responsibilities, or presence of Campus Safety officers.
Can I view video recordings related to an incident?
Video recordings are considered investigative evidence and are handled in accordance with applicable Trinity College policies and procedures. Individuals involved in an incident may, when appropriate, be asked to view specific recordings as part of an investigation, such as for the purpose of identifying a person or clarifying events.
Requests by individuals to view or obtain video recordings must be submitted in writing to the Director of Campus Safety and/or the General Counsel and Secretary of the College. Requests will be reviewed in accordance with applicable College policies, privacy considerations, and legal requirements. Access to recordings is not guaranteed and may be restricted when necessary to protect the privacy of others, preserve an ongoing investigation, or comply with applicable law.
Still have more questions?
Please address any questions, comments, concerns, or suggestions to the Director of Campus Safety.
