LSU Names Marshall Walters Chief of LSU Police Department

LSU has appointed Interim Chief of Police Marshall Walters as the new Chief of Police for LSU, effective June 1, following a national search.

Walters has served more than 21 years with the LSU Police Department as an accredited police officer, working his way up through the department, taking on leadership roles and serving as the interim chief since last Spring.

Walters graduated from Southeastern Louisiana University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice in 2002, and he completed the LSU Law Enforcement Training Academy that same year.

As Chief of Police, Walters will oversee the LSU Police Department, working collaboratively with all campus constituents to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for students, faculty, staff, and visitors. He is committed to transparency, accountability, and community engagement, ensuring that our campus remains a place where everyone feels secure and supported.

“We are proud to make this announcement about someone who has dedicated more than 21 years of law enforcement service to LSU,” President William F. Tate IV said. “Campus safety is a complex undertaking that requires deep expertise and proactive thinking. Chief Walters’ experience and background serve as evidence he is ready and willing to take on the challenges ahead to improve campus safety for all.”

Walters is known throughout the state for implementing innovative safety programs and building strong partnerships with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.

“Chief Walters has spearheaded numerous initiatives that have significantly streamlined and centralized our campus safety procedures, enhancing public safety and strengthening our community relations,” Executive Vice President & Chief Administrative Officer Kimberly Lewis said.

In this permanent role, Walters will report to Associate Vice President for Campus Safety, Emergency Preparedness & Emergency Response Michael Antoine.

“Chief Walters brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to community safety. In his time with LSU, he has held various leadership roles, demonstrating a profound dedication to fostering a secure and inclusive environment, and we are confident that under his leadership, our campus safety efforts will continue to thrive and evolve to meet the needs of our diverse community,” said Antoine. 

Walters said he is honored and excited for this opportunity.

“It has been my privilege to serve the LSU community for the past 21 years, and I will lead LSU’s Police Department with the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, compassion, and transparency in law enforcement. As the parent of a college student myself, I fully understand the responsibility and gravity of this critical role,” Walters said. “I look forward to increasing engagement with students, faculty, staff and the surrounding community to ensure LSU is a safe and welcoming campus.”

LSU PD has jurisdiction on all LSU property. However, when a crime originates on LSU property, LSU PD’s jurisdiction extends to any area in the state of Louisiana where the investigation may lead. 

The LSU Police Department currently employs approximately 60 sworn law enforcement officers, serving over 30,000 students, 5,000 employees and thousands of visitors every year on the main campus.