ILLINOIS — A first-of-its-kind analysis of traffic stops at Illinois public universities has revealed a troubling pattern: Black drivers are pulled over at significantly higher rates by campus police than their white peers — and are more likely to receive tickets once stopped.
The investigation, conducted by WBEZ Chicago and the Saluki Local Reporting Lab, found these disparities to be most prominent at institutions like Southern Illinois University–Carbondale, where Black drivers made up a far larger share of stops than their presence in the driving population would suggest.
Key Findings From the Report
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At multiple Illinois public universities, Black drivers were stopped by campus police far more frequently than white drivers.
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Once stopped, Black motorists were also more likely to be ticketed rather than let off with a warning.
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These disparities held even in predominantly white areas or where Black students make up only a small fraction of the campus population.
The findings highlight a broader issue of racial profiling and raise questions about the role campus police departments play beyond university grounds.
Example: Southern Illinois University–Carbondale
In a notable case, Michael Burton, a 21-year-old junior at SIU and West Side Chicago native, was stopped by campus police in December 2023. Police bodycam footage shows the encounter, raising public concern after Burton questioned why he had been pulled over.
“I’ve done nothing wrong — what’s the real reason?” Burton said during the stop.
The footage added to growing scrutiny about policing practices that disproportionately impact students and visitors of color, even at institutions where they may already feel marginalized.
Broader Implications Across Campuses
University police are empowered to enforce traffic laws both on and off campus. But critics argue that:
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Their jurisdiction often extends into residential neighborhoods, impacting local residents not affiliated with the university.
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The data suggests that bias — whether implicit or systemic — is influencing enforcement patterns.
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These patterns mirror national trends in over-policing of Black drivers in suburban and urban settings alike.
The findings also come at a time when Illinois universities are under pressure to demonstrate equity and transparency, especially in response to growing racial justice demands from students.
Call for Accountability and Reform
Advocates are now pushing for:
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Independent reviews of campus police practices
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Bias training and data transparency
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Clear limits on off-campus enforcement
Some universities have pledged to examine internal data, but critics say more aggressive action is needed to protect students and residents from discriminatory practices.
“This isn’t just about student safety. It’s about racial equity and who gets to feel safe in public spaces,” said one local organizer.
Do Campus Police in Illinois Need Oversight?
Have you experienced or witnessed traffic stops by university police in your neighborhood? Do you think campus departments should operate in residential areas? Tell us what you think — join the conversation now at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
