University Procedure for Sexual Misconduct

If a sex offense occurs, the following procedure should be followed. If the offense occurred on university property, it should be reported to the University Police Department. If the offense did not occur on university property, victims have the option to allow the University Police, Student Affairs, or the University Counseling Center to assist them in notifying the proper jurisdictional authorities if the victim wishes to make a formal complaint.

It is important to preserve evidence in the event the victim wised to pursue criminal charges. The victim should get medical attention as soon as possible at the local hospital. Physical specimens collected by medical staff soon after the sex offense can be valuable evidence if criminal charges are filed.

If a victim chooses to pursue university disciplinary procedures, this may be done regardless of criminal proceedings. During university disciplinary proceedings, the accuser and the accused are both entitled to the same opportunities to have advisors of their choice present. Additionally, both the accuser and the accused are informed of the outcome of university discipline proceeding alleging a sexual assault.

Sanctions imposed for sexual misconduct offenses following a university disciplinary proceeding may range from counseling to expulsion as explained in Chapter 8 of the University Policies and Procedures Manual which is available in any administrative office or is on reserve in the library.

Victims of sexual misconduct may wish to seek support through counseling. The University Counseling Center is available for emergency consultations. If the student wishes, University Police Officers will assist in making these arrangement. Students may also contact the University Counseling Center themselves at 785-4014. Community based assistance is available through Victim Support Services at 665-1617.

Victims that wish to make changes in their academic schedule or in campus living arrangements after an alleged sexual assault may do so providing such changes can be reasonably accomplished. Victims should contact the Dean of Student Affairs for assistance.