In an era when campus safety is tested with more complicated challenges, UCLA's Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT) plays a crucial role in promoting a secure environment for the Bruin community. Established in response to increasing concerns about violence and disruptive behavior, BIT operates with a clear charge to identify potential threats and mitigate risks to campus safety.
Mission of BIT
Housed in UCLA Campus Human Resources, BIT's primary mission is to enhance campus safety by identifying potential threats of harm. This involves evaluating reported behaviors that may signal risks, allowing the team to take proactive measures to protect students, faculty and staff.
“The team's goal is to foster a secure campus environment by addressing early warning signs of disruptive or violent behavior,” explains BIT Manager Chris Silva “From that vantage point, we can take steps to mitigate those threats.”
Team composition
BIT comprises a diverse group of professionals from various sectors of campus. This multidisciplinary approach ensures a comprehensive evaluation of concerns. Key members include representatives from Academic Affairs; Employee & Labor Relations; Insurance & Risk Management; UCLA Police Department; Office of Emergency Management; Office of Legal Affairs; UCLA Health Security Services; Strategic Communications; Staff & Faculty Counseling Center; and Student Affairs. This collaborative framework allows BIT to leverage a wide range of expertise when addressing behavioral concerns.
History and evolution
Originally formed in 2007 as a response to the tragic shooting at Virginia Tech, BIT was initially known as the Threat Assessment Team. The name was changed in 2014 to reflect a broader focus on behavioral issues rather than just threats of violence. This evolution underscores the importance of early intervention and holistic support.
Reporting and support
Anyone in the UCLA community—students, faculty, staff and even visitors—can reach out to BIT if they observe concerning behaviors. And BIT strongly encourages this type of support from the campus. Reports can be made through Bruins Safe Online, and BIT recommends the reporting of both current and past incidents. Insights from historical data can significantly enhance the understanding of potential threats and inform preventive measures.
BIT is not limited to addressing workplace violence; it also recognizes that issues like domestic violence can spill over into professional environments. By being aware of these dynamics, BIT strives to support individuals facing such challenges and ensure safety on campus.
Incident reporting and response
Regardless of one’s affiliation to UCLA, you can file a report of concerning behavior through Bruins Safe Online. Upon receiving a report, BIT undertakes a swift assessment to gauge the level of concern. It gathers and analyzes relevant data, subsequently providing resources and support to mitigate the identified issues.
“Confidentiality is a cornerstone of BIT’s operations,” stresses BIT Coordinator Lauren Respicio Rueff. “Privacy ensures that sensitive information about individuals involved in reports is protected.”
While BIT focuses on early intervention, it collaborates closely with the UCLA Police Department when imminent threats are detected. This partnership is vital for ensuring the safety of the campus community.
Trends and Data Application
In recent years, BIT has seen a notable increase in reports, particularly following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. With reports doubling every few years, the team has adapted its strategies to address the evolving landscape of campus safety.
Commonly reported concerns include harassment, which, while less overtly violent, can serve as a warning sign for potential future violence. By analyzing data on these incidents, BIT can allocate resources effectively and prioritize interventions where they are most needed.
Future Goals and Community Awareness
Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, BIT anticipates a rise in reported cases due to new state regulations mandating workplace violence prevention measures.
“We are prepared to meet this challenge,” Silva assures, emphasizing the team’s commitment to helping individuals before situations escalate to crisis levels.
UCLA's Behavioral Intervention Team is a vital resource dedicated to maintaining a safe and supportive environment for the campus community. Through proactive identification of potential threats, comprehensive support systems and collaborative efforts across various departments, BIT strives to protect and empower all Bruins. Its ongoing commitment to safety and well-being remains an essential component of the University's mission, ensuring that UCLA continues to be a place where education and personal growth can thrive without fear.
