"There is an awesome potential to take a life," Crowley says. "I am very aware of what I'm doing."

But Crowley says he only draws his weapon when he feels that he or someone nearby is in "imminent danger."

And Crowley is quick to say that it is important for cops to carry firearms.

"The Harvard community benefits from the fact that we are armed," he says.

Shattered Myths

Those who form their opinions about police work based on television shows may be surprised by policing Harvard-style.

"NYPD Blue" fans, for example, will be disappointed to learn that Harvard police--except for those who work at the Medical School near Mission Hill--do not ride with partners.

That's mainly an issue of staffing constraints, McCarthy says.

Police officers also do not get free coffee or donuts.

"It used to be the norm," says McCarthy. "If someone offers me anything free, I won't accept it anyway."

Crowley says that businesses occasionally offer him free food and beverages, but he always declines because accepting such offers "doesn't look good to the public."

"I wouldn't feel comfortable doing it," Crowley says.

Students may also be surprised to learn that HUPD officers do not patrol the undergraduate houses on Friday and Saturday nights looking to break up parties.

During the four hours spent with the officers last Saturday night, neither broke up any undergraduate parties.

"We don't just show up at parties," Crowley says. "We only go there if there has been a complaint."