CORNELL UNIVERSITY POLICE DEPARTMENT
Safety Protocol: Disruptive Individuals
Who is a disruptive individual?
An individual who makes threats of physical harm to you, others, or themselves.
An individual who has a weapon. Refer to Armed Subjects Protocol.
An individual who behaves in a bizarre manner or exhibits unstable behavior patterns
The individual who appears to be intoxicated or under the influence of a controlled substance
What action should I take?
Contact CUPD at 255-1111
Give your name and campus location with a brief explanation of the situation.
Take note of the individuals age, personal appearance, clothing, vehicle or any other information that would help identify the individual.
Express your authority with non-verbal cues:
Sit or Stand erect
Square your shoulders
Smile and make eye contact
Speak clearly and distinctly
Maintain a constant voice volume that is not too loud
Cues to avoid:
Observe the individuals personal space (don’t stand to close)
Do NOT touch the person
Do not slouch, glare, or sigh at the individual
Anger management Tactics:
Get their attention: use their name, ask them to sit down
Acknowledge their feelings: paraphrase what they say so they will know you are listening
Get them moving: offer a chair, move them to a private area if possible
Offer assistance: use the word “We” to include them in the solution process
Tell them exactly what you can do for them and when
Offer an alternative if appropriate
Advise co-workers of the potential problem if possible
Call for aid immediately if you sense the situation is getting out of hand