Lakeland College

Room Search

Lakeland College reserves the right to enter and search a residence hall room or apartment if any of its authorized personnel (e.g., resident assistant, residence hall director, maintenance, Safety and Security) has reason to believe:

• That there is a possibility of imminent hazard to persons or property; or
• That there is a violation of public law or college policy; or
• That contraband items are present but concealed from view

If entry becomes necessary under these conditions, college personnel will knock and identify themselves. If there is no response, a passkey will be used to enter the room. Contraband items in plain view (e.g., items prohibited by law or college policy) may be confiscated by college personnel and used as evidence in student conduct hearings. If a room search is necessary, it will be conducted by Safety and Security (or by law enforcement, if necessary). If possible, a residence hall director will be present during the room search. When practical, the resident(s) whose room is to be searched will be allowed to be present during the search and will be informed of the reason for the search. The resident(s) need not give permission to search. College personnel will ask to open locked boxes and/or safes that belong to the resident(s). During a search, Safety and Security shall make a reasonable attempt not to unnecessarily disrupt belongings, and an effort shall be made to leave the room in the condition that it was found. A resident who believes her or his room has been wrongfully entered should report the matter to the residence hall director and submit a written complaint to the Dean of Students.