Sexual Assault Policy and Procedures

Sexual assault is defined as: any sexual act directed against another person, forcibly, and/or against that person's will; or not forcibly or against the person's will where the victim is incapable of giving consent.

The Campus recognizes the serious physical and psychological impact of sexual assault. It is one of the most frequently committed violent crimes in the United States and most unreported.

If attacked or confronted by an assailant, try to attract attention. Assess the situation: options are to fight, run, or reason with the assailant. Personal safety awareness programs and self-defense courses can help educate one as to how to respond appropriately in a sexual assault situation.

Acquaintance rape, sexual assault that occurs between people who know each other, is far more common on college campuses than stranger rape. Acquaintance rape is as serious as any other form of rape.

If you are assaulted:

1. Report the incident immediately.
2. Do not wash, shower, change clothes, or douche before calling or going for help.
3. All efforts should be made to preserve evidence. Do not touch any evidence of an attack or struggle even if the assault took place in your room or home.
4. Go to a safe place. Ask a friend to stay with you. Call Public Safety at extension x2222.

If you feel you are the victim of a sexual assault on campus, report the incident so that trained campus staff members can provide prompt and supportive assistance. Public Safety personnel will keep all calls confidential and will:

• Meet with you privately at a place of your choice to take a complaint report.
• Refuse to release your name to the public and the press.
• Treat you and your particular case with courtesy, sensitivity, dignity, understanding, and professionalism.
• Try to accommodate your wish to speak to either a male or female officer.
• Assist you in arranging for any hospital treatment or other medical care.
• Fully investigate your case in accordance with the Student Bill of Rights. This may lead to the arrest and full prosecution of a suspect. You will be kept up to date on the progress of the investigation and prosecution.
• Continue to be available to answer your questions and explain systems and legal processes involved.
• Consider your case seriously.
• Cooperate with the Deputy Title IX Coordinator in changing academic and living arrangements precipitated by the offense if you request such action.

Procedures are in place for on-campus disciplinary action in cases of alleged sexual assault. In such disciplinary actions the accuser and the accused (1) are entitled to the same opportunities to have others present during the proceedings and (2) shall be informed of the outcome of the proceedings. Any individual found guilty of rape, acquaintance rape, or other sex offenses (forcible or non-forcible) following an on-campus disciplinary procedure is subject to sanctions up to and including expulsion from the campus.