The Springfield Police Department (SPD) provides law enforcement services for the university through a Police Substation located on campus. The Police Substation has ten officers assigned to serve through community oriented policing with a focus on crime prevention. Each officer strives to develop working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and campus organizations.

The police officers work closely with University Safety to address any safety concerns on campus. The Police Substation and the Office of University Safety are located in the same building at 636 E. Elm Street.

This arrangement provides the university with law enforcement officers that understand campus life and the challenges students face as they step out on their own, along with the professionalism and resources of a metropolitan law enforcement agency. Together, Missouri State University and the Springfield Police Department feel this is the best way to serve and protect our campus community.

Sergeant Josh Ludwig was assigned as the supervisor of the Police Substation on August 31st, 2020. He has over 16 years of service with the Springfield Police Department. Other officers assigned to the Substation include Corporal Mike Evans, Officer Kelly Castaneda, Officer Aaron Cottengim, Officer Nicholas Havice, Officer Josh Brown, Officer Doug Trader, Officer Josiah Thompson, and Officer Dustin Walker.

These officers can frequently be seen attending meetings, giving presentations, or patrolling campus in police vehicles or on bicycles. They encourage students and staff members to reach out whenever they need assistance or have a question.