Message from the Chief

Chief Bart C. Knowles

On behalf of the members of the University of Florida Police Department, it is my honor and privilege to welcome you to Gator Nation.

The University of Florida Police Department is a full-service, state and nationally accredited law enforcement agency with a clear mission: preserving the safety and well-being of our campus community. More than 80 certified law enforcement officers serve the Gainesville campus, in addition to more than 130 full-time and part-time professional staff.

At the University of Florida Police Department, we strongly believe that safety is a shared responsibility. As the agency’s chief, I encourage you to familiarize yourself not only with the services we provide but also to be an informed Gator. Download the GatorSAFE APP for valuable information on our department, as well as safety tips, a campus map, and many other resources. This is also one of the fastest means to receive notifications from the UF Alert program in the event of an emergency or dangerous situation.

Also, contact us if you see something suspicious or that seems out of place by dialing 911 or directly into our campus dispatch center at 352-392-1111. Anonymous tips may be submitted through our Silent Witness portal.

Your thoughts and comments are very important to us. If you have questions or concerns, please contact one of the members of our Community Services Division at 352-392-1409. You may also visit our contact page for additional numbers to specific divisions and sections within the department.

We are committed to being transparent and keeping you informed of issues that are important to the campus community. Follow us on social media, and thank you for taking the time to visit our website.

In Service,

Chief Bart C. Knowles