A Parent’s Guide to College Arrests: What Really Happens After Campus Police Get Involved
College arrests often catch families off guard. Many parents assume campus police handle matters internally or that student discipline replaces criminal consequences. In reality, a campus arrest can trigger both criminal charges and school disciplinary proceedings.
Understanding how these systems interact is essential for protecting a student’s future.
Campus Police Are Real Police
In Pennsylvania, many colleges and universities employ sworn law enforcement officers. These officers have the same authority as municipal police, including the power to arrest, search, and file criminal charges.
An arrest by campus police can lead directly to charges in local court, separate from any university process.
Criminal Charges and School Discipline Are Separate
Universities may conduct their own investigations under student conduct codes. These proceedings operate under different rules and lower standards of proof.
Statements made during school disciplinary hearings can later be used in criminal cases. This overlap creates significant risk if legal counsel is not involved early.
Common Charges in College Arrests
College-related arrests often involve:
Each carries different legal and academic consequences.
Why Parents Should Be Cautious
Parents often want to contact school administrators immediately. While communication may be necessary, poorly timed statements or admissions can complicate both proceedings.
Coordination between criminal defense strategy and school-related issues is critical.
Early Legal Guidance Matters
An experienced criminal defense attorney can help:
Navigate criminal court proceedings
Coordinate responses to school investigations
Protect academic standing where possible
Advise on long-term consequences
College arrests should never be treated as “minor” simply because they happen on campus.
About Frank Walker Law
Attorney Frank Walker of Frank Walker Law is a National Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyer, and Personal Injury Attorney who has been recognized as a Super Lawyer, a member of the National College for DUI Defense, Best Attorneys in America, Best Law firms of America, America’s Greatest Attorneys, and a Top AVVO Rated attorney, with offices in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and Morgantown West Virginia.
Additionally, you can find Attorney Walker on YouTube, TikTok, the Pittsburgh Attorney Podcast and the West Virginia Attorney Podcast, where he gives legal tips (not advice!) and discusses the pressing legal issues of the day.
If you or someone you love are facing criminal charges or are seriously injured in an accident, contact Attorney Frank Walker immediately at 412-532-6805 (Pittsburgh), 304-413-0179 (Morgantown), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for aggressive and experienced Criminal Defense or Representation in a Civil Case.