Northeast State Community College officials have the authority to conduct warrantless searches of persons and property in order to ensure compliance with school rules prohibiting contraband substances or items. Written authorization to implement a search of a student or their property will be made by either the Vice President for Institutional Excellence and Student Success or the President, in that order, and should, if possible, be based upon a signed statement setting forth in detail the facts and underlying circumstances justifying the search.

In exceptional circumstances, a search may be made, and Northeast State personnel may proceed with the search, without a written authorization. Such circumstances are limited to those where the basic violation of the College’s regulation on contraband can be said to be in imminent danger of disappearance, destruction, or removal.

When the student voluntarily consents to a search, no written authorization for the search is required. A voluntary consent in writing will be requested from the student. In all cases where a search is to be made of a student’s property, the student should be present for the search whenever possible.

Police or law enforcement officers employed by Northeast State have the authority to conduct warrantless searches on persons and property in accordance with applicable state laws.

In the event police or other law enforcement officials not employed by Northeast State request permission to search a student or their property, the College will notify the student of the request. All questions concerning this subject should be directed to the Vice President for Institutional Excellence and Student Success or the President of Northeast State.