Annual Security & Fire Safety. Report

Transcription

1 Annual Security & Fire Safety Report 2015

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3 Table of Contents 2015 Annual Security Report page 3 Important Websites page 4 Important Phone Numbers page 5 Mission Statement page 6 Department of Public Safety (DPS) page 7 Crime Prevention and Education page 8 Security Technology page 9 Reporting a Crime or Getting Assistance page 10 Anonymous Reporting page 10 Silent Witness page 10 Daily Crime Logs page 10 Campus Security Authority page 11 Emergency Response, Evacuation Procedures page 12 Timely Warnings page 12 RPI Alert page 13 RPI Guardian page 13 Alcohol and Drug Abuse Programs page 14 Weapons Possession page 15 Bias Hate Crime Policy page 15 Missing College Student page 16 Sexual Violence, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence and Stalking page Sexual Offense Registration Act page 19 The Clery Act page 20 Crime Definitions page Rensselaer and the Law page 23 Good Samaritan Policy page 23 Crime Statistics page Rensselaer Map page Fire Safety Report page

4 2015 Annual Security and Fire Safety Report For the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Main Campus Troy, New York and 5 non-contiguous University properties: *HartfordCampus,75 Windsor St., Hartford CT *Mystic Executive Park, 115 Pohegnaut Dr., Groton CT *Darrin Freshwater Institute, 5060 Lakeshore Drive, Bolton Landing, NY *Rensselaer Technology Park, Jordan Rd, Defreestville NY *Watervliet Facility, 25th Street, Watervliet NY Rensselaer complies with all federal, state and local nondiscrimination laws and provides equal opportunities for all persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, national origin, citizenship status, disability, military status, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by law. 4

5 Important Websites To learn more about campus safety and our Institute s policies we have provided a list of websites with their links for your convenience. Violence Against Women Act: Clery Center for Security on Campus: Department of Education: Campus Save Act: National Center on Domestic and Sexual Violence: RPI Silent Witness: RPI Guardian: NYS Sex Offender Registry: Connecticut Sex Offender Registry: RPI Department of Public Safety: Rensselaer s Sexual Misconduct Policy: Rensselaer s Student Handbook: 5

6 COMMUNITY RESOURCES Important Phone Numbers Emergency Services (Rensselaer County) 911 Troy Police, Fire, Ambulance Non-Emergency (518) Rensselaer County Sheriff Non-Emergency (518) New York State Police Non-Emergency (518) Capital District Transit Authority (518) Sexual Assault Information Line (518) Planned Parenthood (518) Poison Control Center Sexual Assault & Crime Victims Assistance Program (Samaritan Hospital) (518) (24 hr) Samaritan Hospital (518) Woman s Health Services (Samaritan Hospital) (518) Unity House Families in Crisis Program (518) CAMPUS RESOURCES Public Safety Emergency (24-hour) (518) Non-emergency (24-hour) (518) Access Control (518) Information (Closings/Delays) (518) Public Safety Website Ambulance (518) Counseling Center (518) Dean of Students Office (518) First Year Experience (518) Disabled Student Services (518) Parking/Shuttle (518) Health Services (518) Lost & Found (518) Residence Life (518) RENSSELAER Information (518) Hartford Campus

7 The mission of the Department of Public Safety is to develop partnerships with the community we serve, including students, staff and faculty in order to enhance the goal of providing superior higher education in a safe and secure environment. Through these partnerships we will preserve a learning environment that supports academic freedom, respect for diversity, understanding, cooperation and an open exchange of ideas. 7

8 Department of Public Safety (DPS) The department members shall provide quality services to the Rensselaer Community and recognize that we are part of the educational process. Our role in support of the Rensselaer Plan 2024 is paramount to the success of each student and their educational aspirations. The Department of Public Safety, with a force of 36 Campus Public Safety Officers that is augmented by contract security guards, maintains 24/7 patrols on campus by foot, car and bicycle. Public Safety Officers possess New York State statutory arrest powers. Officers use the New York criminal procedure laws and the penal law in concert with education and local laws to maintain a safe environment. DPS works closely with the City of Troy Police Department as both agencies have jurisdiction on the 274-acre campus. The main campus includes academic facilities, residential buildings, the Houston Field House, the East Campus Athletic Village (ECAV), athletic fields, parking areas, paths and roadways. The department also coordinates investigations, analyzes crime reports, provides victim services, and confers regularly with local, county and state law enforcement agencies. Public Safety personnel are recruited from academic institutions, the military and law enforcement agencies. Officers have undergone extensive interviews and background investigations. They are required to attend a 320 hour New York State certified campus law enforcement academy to provide officers with training in law enforcement and emergency response 8

9 Crime Prevention and Education Programs Community Outreach Programs Members of Public Safety provide many safety related outreach programs throughout the year. These programs include RAD (Rape Aggression Defense), RPI Guardian,CPR/First Aid, DDC (Defensive Driving), Operation Identification and Bike/ Property registration, Safety brochures and discussions, Safety Alerts, and Personal Safety Instructions. Go to the Public Safety website for more information: RAD: The Rape Aggression Defense System consists of realistic, self-defense tactics and techniques with comprehensive courses for men and women. It begins with awareness, prevention, risk reduction and avoidance, and basic safety techniques training. R.A.D. is not a martial arts program. Our courses are taught by certified R.A.D. instructors and provide a workbook/reference manual, which outlines the entire physical defense program for continuous personal growth. The R.A.D. System of physical defense is taught at many colleges and universities. The growing, widespread acceptance of this system is primarily due to the ease, simplicity and effectiveness of our tactics, solid research, legal defensibility, and unique teaching methodology. RPI Guardian: an opt-in service that works with your smart phone and can be used to alert Public Safety in an emergency, providing DPS with your location and other critical information required for a rapid response. CPR/First Aid: You never know when you may be able to save a life or reduce injury. Public Safety offers courses in CPR and basic first aid which also includes AED (automatic external defibrillators). Defensive Driving: If you would like to improve your driving skills to protect your own safety and that of your passengers this class will provide those skills. Also the class can reduce up to 3 points off your license and provide a10% insurance reduction. Call Public Safety for class information. Operation Identification: You can come to Public Safety and take advantage of Operation ID by signing out the equipment. This will make your valuables easier to track in case of theft. Bike/Property Registration: Our free registration program can reduce theft, and may allow more returns by registering your serial number, and it will let authorities and Public Safety know it is yours. 9

10 Security Technology The Department of Public Safety is responsible for the state-of-theart electronic security infrastructure for the University. This includes over 100 emergency phones connected directly to our Public Safety emergency radio dispatch center, and over 296 closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras throughout campus. Electronic access control card readers, burglar and door alarms, sensors, and duress alarms installed in strategic locations are the other key features of the security technology program located in RPI-owned buildings throughout campus. Public Safety patrols regularly test the emergency phones that are connected directly to Public Safety and submit work orders for repairs, recommend the trimming of shrubbery for safety reasons and conduct periodic lighting surveys. Officers report the need for replacement of lights and any other physical hazards they notice. Periodic crimeprevention surveys are conducted when a crime trend occurs, or upon physical changes of office space and equipment, when requested by an administrator. All residence halls are equipped with exterior card access and door alarms that report to Public Safety. RPI apartments are equipped with key locks on exterior entrance and interior bedroom doors. Within the apartment, bedrooms are keyed separately. Many other buildings, offices, laboratories, computer rooms and areas on campus have card access, alarms and closed-circuit television systems installed. Access to Buildings and Facilities Members of the campus community, as well as guests and visitors, have access to most campus buildings and facilities Mon.-Fri. (limited hours may be designated for weekends) at times when the University is normally in operation. Exterior doors on campus buildings are secured each evening by the Department of Public Safety. Door and security problems are reported on a daily basis. Emergency Telephones Emergency phones, clearly marked with the word Emergency either on or near the phone, have been placed in convenient internal locations, such as elevators, hallways and other public areas, to provide easy accessibility. A caller who reports an emergency using one of the Institute s emergency telephones will reach a dispatcher at the Department of Public Safety, who will request specific information while an officer is sent to assist the caller. Blue-Light Telephones There are 100 blue-light telephones at strategic locations near campus roadways, sidewalks, parking lots and residence halls. A blue light atop the pole makes each phone easy to see. Direct contact with Public Safety is established as soon as the receiver is lifted. The dispatcher immediately knows the location of the caller and can dispatch a mobile patrol to the location of the call. Even if the caller is unable to speak, an officer will still respond to the location of the call. Security in Residence Halls Residence halls are locked 24 hours per day. Resident assistants, on duty 8 p.m.-midnight, make three rounds during the evening to check such safety and security concerns as propped doors, missing or expended fire extinguishers, or strangers in the building. Institute policy prohibits students from propping open residence hall exit doors; such violations of policy are referred to the Dean of Students for action 10

11 Reporting a Crime or Getting Assistance Community members, students, faculty, staff, and guests are encouraged to report all crimes and public safety related incidents to the Department of Public Safety in a timely manner. Public Safety can be reached at (518) for non-emergencies, (518) or 911 for emergencies. You may also use the emergency call boxes located strategically throughout the campus. All crimes should be reported to Public Safety to aid in providing timely warnings to the community when appropriate. The Public Safety building is located on 15th Street next to the Student Union. Upon receiving information concerning an incident, an officer will investigate the incident, document the information and take appropriate action. This action may involve working with local, county, state, or federal law enforcement agencies. Cases are adjudicated through the jurisdiction where the incident occurred and/or through the Institute s judicial system. Anonymous Reporting If you would like to report a crime but do not wish to reveal your identity, the Public Safety department offers an anonymous hotline ( ) that allows you to leave specific information about an incident while ensuring your confidentiality. Cases reported anonymously are disclosed in the annual crime statistics. Silent Witness Our department understands that there are people who have information about a crime, but who do not want to get involved. This type of information may be very helpful in solving a criminal case, and we will be very interested in receiving it. The online Silent Watch Form will allow such people to select the level of privacy for the information they provide. The word Restricted for the purpose of this online form means, not for public viewing, access, or use. ( dept/public_safety/community/silent_watch.html) Daily Crime Logs The Public Safety Department maintains a Daily Crime Log that records, by the date the incident was reported, all crimes and other serious incidents that occur within the department s patrol jurisdiction. This log is available for public inspection at Public Safety in dispatch and includes the nature, date, time, and general location of each crime reported to the department. 11

12 Campus Security Authority (CSA) A Campus Security Authority (CSA) is an individual who is an official of the institution that has significant responsibility for student and campus activities, including but not limited to: Rensselaer Public Safety Officers Contract Security Officers Residence Life Staff Dean of Students Directors of Athletics and team coaches Faculty Advisor to a student group Academic Advisors Student Resident Advisor (RA) or a Graduate Assistant (GA) who monitors access to resident halls Victim Advocate or a Sexual Assault Response Team in a campus Rape Crisis Center An in-person training session for CSAs is conducted annually; those who cannot attend complete an online training module. All CSAs are provided a web link to a form to report crimes to the Department of Public Safety. In addition all newly hired security officers receive CSA training as part of orientation, while all security officers receive annual CSA training. There are two classifications of individuals who, although they have significant responsibilities for student and campus activities, are not considered CSAs under Clery. They are pastoral counselors and professional counselors. A pastoral counselor is defined as a person who is associated with a religious order or denomination, is recognized by that religious order or denomination as someone who provides confidential counseling and is functioning within the scope of that recognition as a pastoral counselor. A professional counselor is defined as a person whose official responsibilities include providing mental health counseling to members of the institution s community and who is functioning within the scope of his or her license or certification. This definition also applies to professional counselors who are not employees of the institution but are under contract to provide counseling at the institution. Although pastoral counselors and professional counselors do not have to report crimes that are brought to their attention while serving in an official capacity, they are encouraged to inform their client/s of the procedures to report crimes on a voluntary, confidential basis for inclusion in the annual disclosure of crime statistics. Under Clery a crime is reported when a victim, witness, other third party or even the offender brings it to the attention of a CSA or local law enforcement personnel. It does not matter whether or not the individual/s involved in the crime or reporting the crime are associated with the institution. If a CSA receives the crime information and believes it was provided in good faith, he or she should document it as a crime report and provide this report to the Department of Public Safety. In good faith means there is a reasonable basis for believing that the information is not simply rumor or hearsay. CSAs are not responsible for investigating crimes. Their role is to report all incidents immediately, no matter how minor an incident may seem. All investigations and crime classifications are the responsibility of sworn law enforcement personnel. 12

13 Emergency Response, Evacuation Procedures, Timely Warning Reports and Emergency Notification Rensselaer maintains a comprehensive emergency response plan that is available for viewing in the office of Public Safety. This plan details the policies and procedures the Institute will take when preparing for, responding to, and recovering from emergency incidents or other unplanned events. Included within the plan are the following elements: Immediate Emergency Response All emergencies on the Rensselaer campus shall be reported to Public Safety at 911 (from a campus phone) or (518) Upon notification of an emergency incident, Rensselaer first responders and emergency operation center staff shall follow the National Incident Management System (NIMS) protocol for the response and management of all emergency incidents. Immediate Evacuation Procedures In compliance with New York State laws, Rensselaer conducts evacuation drills at least four times per academic year in every residential building and three times annually in non-residential buildings. He office of Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S). EH&S works with all Timely Warnings When the DPS becomes aware of criminal incidents that in the judgment of DPS and the Institute s senior leadership constitute an ongoing or continuing threat to the campus community, the Department of Public Safety issues a timely warning to notify the community. Depending on the particular circumstances, a timely warning may be disseminated by using one or a combination of the following: the main Rensselaer website, Public Safety website, distribution; various campus publications; crime alerts; flyers posted at various locations on campus; and/or activation of the RPIAlert system which activates personal electronic devices, Rensselaer s outdoor siren/notification system and/or digital displays to advise the community of the situation. Timely warnings are considered on a case-by-case basis. Any timely warning issued shall not contain the names of any victim/s or other identifying information on a victim such as their residence. campus to develop and enhance evacuation plans AL SECURITY REPORT 13

14 . Emergency Notification System RPIAlert and the Campus Emergency Notification System RPIAlert is Rensselaer s campus-wide emergency alert system. It is designed to alert students, faculty staff and visitors of a catastrophic emergency affecting Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. The system is composed of several communication systems providing campus-wide coverage. Alerts inform the campus community about the emergency or threat occurring on campus and protective actions, if any, members of the community should take in response to the emergency. Once begun, alerts continue until the emergency has passed. Upon receiving a report of a catastrophic emergency on campus, the Department of Public Safety investigates to confirm the report. Once confirmed, senior campus administration officials are informed and the Department of Public Safety activates RPIAlert to alert the campus community. Simultaneously, Rensselaer County Office of 911, local municipalities and first responders are alerted. RPIAlert is routinely tested throughout the year, ensuring the system is fully operational. The staff produces an After- Action Report that focuses on findings, outcomes and an Improvement Plan. RPI Guardian The Department of Public Safety has a personal safety service, RPI Guardian. RPI Guardian is an application you download to your cell phone, either through the Apple App store or Google Play, and allows you to initiate contact with Public Safety in an emergency. It provides peace of mind by transforming your mobile phone into a mobile blue Light phone. This service allows the DPS emergency communications center to identify your location using either GPS coordinates or cell tower triangulation when Public Safety is from a cell phone that you registered with RPI Guardian. This is NOT an active GPS system that allows DPS to track you upon registration. No data, including GPS, is or ever can be shared under any circumstances unless you call RPI Guardian. This personal safety service supplements the current Code Blue system that is already in place. The service should not replace the standard practice of dialing (518) (DPS) to report campus based emergencies. In addition, the application allows for Eye Witness anonymous crime tip reporting. To learn more visit: 14

15 ALCOHOL AND DRUG ABUSE PROGRAMS: Public Safety serves on the Institute-Wide Alcohol & Other Drug Advisory Committee, whose approach to addressing campus alcohol and other substance abuse issues for students is based on a public health model of risk reduction: education, enforcement and environmental change. This is a comprehensive evidence-based method. Initiatives include a focus on both high-risk groups and population-based initiatives, as well as chronological efforts that will provide multiple touch-points throughout a student s tenure. The Student Health Center offers a variety of alcohol and other drug programming for students, including Varsity Athletes, Residence Halls, Greek Life, and Student Clubs/Organizations. In the state of New York it is illegal to drink under the age of 21 and Rensselaer does not condone underage drinking. Rensselaer enforces this law in its living and learning environments; Institute sponsored events, activities and programs; and events, activities and programs held in or using Institute facilities. If there is a reasonable suspicion a student is abusing or under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, appropriate referrals and/or judicial mandates are followed. The Counseling Center, Student Health Center, and Dean of Students Office are resources for students. Faculty and Staff who need assistance with alcohol and/or drug abuse should contact the Division of Human Resources, and the Human Resources Policy Guidelines. Faculty, staff and their dependents have free access to confidential counseling and other support services through the Institute s Employee Assistance Program. ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS: The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of alcohol or drugs is prohibited on Institute property. Individuals or organizations who sponsor approved events involving beverage alcohol shall assume full responsibility and liability for the event. Any student under age 21 who misrepresents his/her age in order to obtain alcohol has violated a Grounds for Disciplinary Action. If that person is an employee, HR policies have been violated. Any person who supplies or makes alcohol available to someone under age 21 has violated NYS statutes An alcohol permit must be obtained from the Student Health Center for any event occurring on Institute grounds at which alcohol is served or present. Campus events that are open to all students or where 20%or more attendees will be under age 21, may not be granted an alcohol permit. The consumption of alcohol or possession of an open container of alcohol is prohibited in all public or common areas on campus. Alcohol will not be permitted at Rensselaer athletic events. Displays of any alcohol related items or materials are not allowed in any residential facility. Additional information is available in the Student Handbook and the Human Resources Policy Guidelines. 15

16 POSSESSION,USE, AND SALE OF ILLEGAL DRUGS: The unlawful use, manufacture, distribution, dispensation, sale, or possession of any illegal drug is prohibited in any area of the Institute at any time. Violations of this policy may be grounds for serious disciplinary action, up to and including discharge or dismissal. NEW YORK STATE PENAL LAW: Persons who unlawfully possess marijuana could face criminal charges. Persons possessing small amounts of a controlled substance commit a class A misdemeanor that could result in a fine of $1,000 and/ or up to one year in jail. Violations of all other possession and sale laws pertaining to controlled substances are felonies. An arrest or conviction for even a minor alcohol or drug infraction may interfere with future employment prospects and security clearances. TOBACCO USE IS PROHIBITED IN ALL OF RENSSELAER S FACILITIES AND OUTDOOR AREAS All Rensselaer facilities and properties are tobacco-free in an effort to provide Rensselaer s faculty, staff, students and visitors with a healthy, respectful working and learning environment. This policy applies to all students, employees, including faculty and staff, visitors, and vendors. WEAPONS POSSESSION: The Institute s Grounds for Disciplinary Action prohibits use or possession of dangerous weapons, explosive devices or materials, including but not limited to firearms, dangerous knives, BB and pellet guns, air rifles, slingshots, ammunition, firecrackers, bombs, whips, and martial arts weapons. Possession of weapons or firearms of any sort is strictly prohibited on campus. Any weapons found will be confiscated and the person in possession is subject to disciplinary action and/ or arrest. BIAS-HATE CRIME POLICY It is Rensselaer s belief that for any institution to reflect an entire world of intelligence and perspectives it must reflect, represent and respect people and viewpoints from every walk of life. Rensselaer strives to create a welcoming and diverse campus environment that is comfortable for all students, faculty and staff, regardless of race, gender, age, physical abilities, qualities, sexual orientation, religion, gender identity, national origin or cultural heritage. There is zero tolerance for hate or bias related crimes. All reports of bias hate crimes will be thoroughly investigated. To learn more visit: 16

17 Missing College Student MISSING PERSON NOTIFICATION: Department of Public Safety (24/7) Emergency 6611 Campus Phone Emergency Dean of Students Office (9:00am - 5:00pm) (5:00pm - 9:00am) Any Rensselaer student has the option to register a confidential contact person to be notified in the case that the student is determined to be missing. The Dean of Students and the Department of Public Safety, as the authorized Rensselaer officials, and law enforcement officers in the furtherance of a missing person investigation may have access to this information. If a Rensselaer student is determined to be missing, even if that student has not registered a confidential contact person, local law enforcement agencies will be notified the student is missing. A parent or guardian of a Rensselaer student less than 18 years of age and not emancipated will be notified by the Dean of Students or Department of Public Safety when it is determined the student is missing for 24 hours. Any official missing student report is to be filed with the Department of Public Safety and/or local law enforcement agency with jurisdiction in the area. ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSE & COMMUNICATION Complete an intake report. Obtain as many details as possible from complainant. Promptly dispatch officers to conduct a preliminary investigation. Inform responding officers of all pertinent information. Attempt to contact student by cellphone, text, and social media. Provide pertinent information to officers not responding and/or other area law enforcement agencies. Inform investigators and/or supervisors about the incident. Interview friends, classmates, relatives, professors as necessary Check local hospitals Maintain all notes, records and recordings of telephone and radio communications. Search agency records and advise investigating officer (s) and/or supervision about any pertinent information found. As the investigation progresses, ensure that pertinent details are continually relayed to patrols and to other area agencies. Make notifications to college/university administration in accordance with established policies and procedures. To learn more visit: 17

18 Sexual Violence, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence and Stalking Sexual assault may include rape, forced sodomy, forcible compulsion, and forcible touching. Generally, rape is defined as sexual intercourse that is perpetrated against the will of the victim. Acquaintance or date rape, the most prevalent form of rape on a college campus, occurs when the assailant is known to the victim. Sexual assault may not always include penetration. College students, faculty and staff may be victims of sexual abuse. This type of sexual assault is generally defined as unwanted touching for the purpose of sexual arousal. Lack of consent is a factor in almost all sexual offenses. Lack of consent results from the threat or use of physical force, incapacity to consent, or (in the case of sexual abuse) any circumstances in which the victim does not acquiesce in the actor s conduct. The victim may or may not actively resist the attack. A person is deemed incapable of consent when he or she is less than 17 years old, mentally defective, mentally incapacitated (by alcohol, for example) or physically helpless (unconscious or unable to communicate). Your most important job is to get away and get help. There are specially trained, sensitive people at Rensselaer who will assist you; call on them. If you request anonymity, your wish will be honored. If you decide to press charges, Rensselaer will explain your options and help you with the proceedings. If you are assaulted off campus, call the local police. Then call Public Safety. Public Safety will notify the Dean of Students Office. If you are assaulted on campus, call Public Safety (ext. 6611). An officer will immediately come to help you. Public Safety will also contact the Dean of Students Office and coordinate additional police action and emergency medical assistance. Campus policy encourages every member of the campus community to report a crime promptly to Public Safety if the victim wants to or is unable to report. The institute has programs to prevent domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. When an incident of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking is reported, the Institute will provide victims with written notice of available options, remedies, and services. If the accused individual is a student, the standard of evidence used in an institutional disciplinary hearing will be preponderance of the evidence. The Institute has education programs to promote the awareness of rape, acquaintance rape, dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. These education programs include primary prevention and awareness programs for all incoming students and new employees. These education programs will include: a statement that these crimes are prohibited at the Institute; definitions of consent, domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking in the Institute s jurisdiction; safe and positive bystander intervention when there s a risk of one of those incidents; information on risk reduction to recognize warning signs of abusive behavior and avoiding potential attacks; and information about the institutional disciplinary procedures. Following a final determination of an institutional disciplinary procedure for cases of rape, acquaintance rape, dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking, the following sanctions or protective measures may be imposed: suspension, expulsion, education programs, community service, probation, no-contact order. Survivors/victims of these crimes will be provided written information about evidence preservation, how and to whom to report these crimes, options about involvement of law enforcement and campus authorities, and assistance in notifying law enforcement if the victim chooses, as well as the option to decline to notify authorities. Victims will also be provided information in writing about rights and institutional responsibilities regarding no contact orders, orders of protection, or other available applicable options. - Evidence preservation: In order to best preserve evidence, victims should avoid showering, washing, changing clothes, combing hair, drinking, eating, or doing anything to alter physical appearance until after a physical exam has been completed. 18

19 -Reporting: Victims should report to: Larry Hardy, MBA, SPHR Director of Employee Relations And Professional Development The Gurley Building, 2nd Floor Jaqueline Turner Deputy to the Vice President for Human Resources The Gurley Building, 2nd Floor 21 Union Street 21 Union Street (518) (518) Notifying Law Enforcement: Victims have the right to notify law enforcement, and the campus can assist in notifying law enforcement if victims choose. Victims may also choose to decline to notify authorities. The institutional disciplinary procedures will provide a fair, prompt, and impartial process from investigation to final result. The investigation and any hearing will be conducted by those who receive annual training on issues related to these crimes, how to conduct an investigation, and a hearing process that protects victim safety and promotes accountability. Parties are entitled to the same opportunities to have an advisor of their choice present at any hearing and related meetings. There is no limit to the choice of an advisor; however, the parties are responsible for presenting evidence on their own behalf. Advisors may speak privately to their advisee during the proceeding, and cannot present evidence or cross-question witnesses. Parties will be informed simultaneously in writing of the outcome of the process, the availability of any appeal procedures, and when the results become final after any appeals. The disciplinary processes available for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking are: 1. A Complaint of Sexual Misconduct can be filed with a Title IX Coordinator or any Title IX Liaison, the Dean of Students Office, RPI Public Safety, or any Responsible Employee as set forth above. All members of Student Life, Dean of Students Office and the Department of Public Safety are equipped to assist and connect you with obtaining the emergency and support services you may need. An Incident Report of Sexual Misconduct will be filed with the Department of Public Safety, who is responsible for informing the Case Management Team and the Sexual Assault Response Team (SART). 2. All reports to Rensselaer will be investigated and, if appropriate, resolved in a fair and impartial manner. The Institute will review all reports and make an immediate assessment of any risk of harm to the Complainant or to the broader campus community and will take steps necessary to address those risks. These steps may include interim measures (as set forth in Section III.D, below) to provide for the safety of the Complainant and the campus community. As set forth above, Rensselaer s ability to investigate anonymous complaints may be limited. 3. Rensselaer seeks to resolve all Complaints within sixty (60) days of the initial Complaint. All time frames expressed in the Complaint procedures outlined in this Policy are meant as guidelines rather than rigid requirements. Circumstances may arise that require the extension of time frames, including extension beyond sixty (60) days. Such circumstances may include the complexity and scope of the allegations, the number of witnesses involved, the availability of the parties or witnesses, the effect of a concurrent criminal investigation, any intervening Institute break or holiday, or other unforeseen circumstances. In the event that the process exceeds these time frames, Rensselaer will notify the Complainant and Respondent of the reason(s) for the delay and the expected adjustment in time frames. Best efforts will be made to complete the process in a timely manner by balancing principles of thoroughness and fundamental fairness with promptness. 19

20 4. It is a violation of Rensselaer policy to file a knowingly false or malicious Complaint of an alleged Sexual Misconduct policy violation. Action against such conduct may be pursued using the procedure set forth in this Sexual Misconduct Policy. A Complaint filed in good faith under this provision shall not constitute retaliation. The standard of evidence in these cases is preponderance of the evidence. Following an allegation or report of one of these crimes, the institution may offer available protective measures such as a no-contact order; alteration of living, academic, and work situations The institute will maintain as confidential any accommodations or protective measures provided to the victims so long as it does not impair the ability to provide such measures. Personally identifiable information about victims will not be included in any publicly available record-keeping, including the reporting and disclosure of crime statistics. The Institute will provide written notification to students and employees about existing and available counseling, health, mental health, victim advocacy, legal assistance, visa and immigration assistance, and other services available in community and on campus to victims of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. The Institute will also provide information about these services in writing to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, domestic violence. The Institute will provide written notification to victims regarding rights and options, including: available and existing on- and off-campus services such as victim advocacy, counseling, health, mental health, legal assistance, visa and immigration assistance; available and applicable institutional disciplinary procedures, and an explanation of those procedures; confidentiality in protective measures and Clery reporting and disclosure; and reasonable and available options and assistance with changing academic, living, transportation, and working situations, regardless of whether the victim chooses to report the crime to law enforcement. To learn more visit: SEXUAL OFFENDER REGISTRATION ACT This Act requires the Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) to maintain a Sex Offender Registry. The registry contains information on sex offenders classified according to their risk of re-offending as follows: low risk (level 1), moderate risk (level 2) and high risk (level 3). The Act requires that DCJS also maintain a subdirectory of level 3 sex offenders. The DCJS Sex Offender Registry site may be found at and contains their Subdirectory of Level 3 sex offenders as well as other information regarding New York State s Sex Offender Registry. The State of Connecticut Sex Offender Registry can be found at: 20

21 The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act ( The Clery Act) The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (The Clery Act) requires Rensselaer to provide students and employees with information on its security policies and procedures and specific statistics for certain criminal incidents, arrests and disciplinary referrals and to make the information and statistics available to prospective students and employees upon request. It is important to note that the crime classifications for which colleges and universities must provide statistics differ under state and federal law. Statistics for certain crime classifications might appear to be different. For example, the federal statistics for motor vehicle theft differ from the state statistics for the same category because the federal classification includes attempted motor vehicle thefts, while state law requires institutions to separately report attempted motor vehicle thefts. To learn more visit: Crime Definitions The following definitions are to be used for reporting the crimes listed in 34CFR sec (previously ) in accordance with the Federal Bureau of Investigation s Uniform Crime Reporting Program. The definitions for murder, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, motor vehicle theft, weapon law violations, drug abuse violations and liquor law violations are excerpted from the Uniform Crime Reporting Handbook. The definitions of forcible and non-forcible sex offenses are excerpted from the National Incident-Based Reporting System Edition of the Uniform Crime Reporting Handbook. Arson Any willful or malicious burning or attempt to burn, with or without intent to defraud, a dwelling house, public building, motor vehicle or aircraft, personal property of another, etc. Criminal Homicide-Manslaughter by Negligence The killing of another person through gross negligence. Criminal Homicide-Murder and Non negligent Manslaughter The willful (non-negligent) killing of one human being by another. Robbery The taking or attempting to take anything of value from the care, custody, or control of a person or persons by force or threat of force or violence and/or by putting the victim in fear. Aggravated Assault An unlawful attack by one person upon another for the purpose of inflicting severe or aggravated bodily injury. This type of assault usually is accompanied by the use of a weapon or by means likely to produce death or great bodily harm. (It is not necessary that injury result from an aggravated assault when a gun, knife, or other weapon is used which could and probably would result in serious personal injury if the crime were successfully completed.) This category also includes cases when the offender is aware that he or she is infected with a deadly disease and deliberately attempts to infect another with that disease by biting, spitting, or some other method. 21

22 Burglary The unlawful entry of a structure to commit a felony or a theft. For reporting purposes this definition includes: unlawful entry with intent to commit a larceny or felony; breaking and entering with intent to commit a larceny; house breaking; safecracking; and all attempts to commit any of the aforementioned. Motor Vehicle Theft The theft or attempted theft of a motor vehicle. (Classified as motor vehicle theft all cases where automobiles are taken by persons not having lawful access even though the vehicles are later abandoned including joyriding.) Weapon Law Violations The violation of laws or ordinances dealing with weapon offenses, regulatory in nature, such as: manufacture, sale, or possession of deadly weapons; carrying deadly weapons, concealed or openly; furnishing deadly weapons to minors; aliens possessing deadly weapons; and all attempts to commit any of the aforementioned. Drug Abuse Violations Violations of State and local laws relating to the unlawful possession, sale, use, growing, manufacturing, and making of narcotic drugs. The relevant substances include: opium or cocaine and their derivatives (morphine, heroin, codeine); marijuana; synthetic narcotics (Demerol, methadone); and dangerous nonnarcotic drugs (barbiturates, Benzedrine). Liquor Law Violations The violation of laws or ordinances prohibiting: the manufacture, sale, transporting, furnishing, possessing of intoxicating liquor; maintaining unlawful drinking places; bootlegging; operating a still; furnishing liquor to a minor or intemperate person; using a vehicle for illegal transportation of liquor; drinking on a train or public conveyance; and all attempts to commit any of the aforementioned. (Drunkenness and driving under the influence are not included in this definition.) Sex Offenses A) Sex Offenses-Forcible 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. 1. Forcible Rape - The carnal knowledge of a 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 because of his/her temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity (or because of his/her youth).new definition January 2012 The penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any body part or object, or oral penetration by a sex organ of another person, without the consent of the victim. 2. Forcible Sodomy - Oral or anal sexual intercourse with another person, forcibly and/or against that person s will; or not forcibly against the person s will where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his/her youth or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity. 3. Sexual Assault With An Object - The use of an object or instrument to unlawfully penetrate, however slightly, the genital or anal opening of the body of 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 because of his/her youth or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity. 22

23 4. Forcible Fondling - The touching of the private body parts of another person for the purpose of sexual gratification, 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 because of his/her youth or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental incapacity B) Sex Offenses-Non-forcible (Unlawful, non-forcible sexual intercourse). 1. Incest - Non-forcible sexual intercourse between persons who are related to each other within the degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by law. 2. Statutory Rape - Non-forcible sexual intercourse with a person who is under the statutory age of consent. Bias or Hate (definition for the purpose of inclusion in Clery report) A crime involving bodily injury where the victim was intentionally selected on the basis of actual or perceived race, religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity, gender identity, national origin or disability. Under the Violence Against Women act signed into law by President Obama on March 7, 2013, institutions are required to compile statistics for the additional crimes of domestic violence, dating violence and stalking which are reported to campus law enforcement, local police agencies or campus security authorities, commencing with this annual report. The definitions of Dating Violence, Domestic Violence and Stalking below are taken from the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act and can be found at 42 United States Code Section Dating violence The term dating violence means violence committed by a person (A) who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim; and (B) where the existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on a consideration of the following factors: (i) The length of the relationship. (ii) The type of relationship. (iii) The frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship. Domestic violence The term domestic violence includes felony or misdemeanor crimes of violence committed by a current or former spouse of the victim, by a person with whom the victim shares a child in common, by a person who is cohabitating with or has cohabitated with the victim as a spouse, by a person similarly situated to a spouse of the victim under the domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction receiving grant monies, or by any other person against an adult or youth victim who is protected from that person s acts under the domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction. Stalking The term stalking means engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to (A) fear for his or her safety or the safety of others; or (B) suffer substantial emotional distress To learn more visit: or 23

24 RENSSELAER AND THE LAW All federal, state, and local laws apply at Rensselaer. Although the Institute may assist students who are charged with crimes, it will not protect anyone from prosecution. In addition, Rensselaer may impose sanctions of its own. STUDENT JUDICIAL PROCEDURE: 1. The victim (complainant) files a report; a request for action with the Dean of Students Office (and/or the Department of Public Safety) and a hearing officer is assigned the case. 2. An investigation occurs, including interviews with the complainant, the accused and witnesses. 3. The hearing officer then hears the case, makes a determination based upon a preponderance of evidence and imposes sanctions if appropriate. 4. The complainant and the accused are both entitled to a Student Judicial Adviser 5. If found in violation of Institute Policy, the accused has the option of accepting the decision or appealing it. 6. Once a final judicial decision is determined, both the accused and the complainant are informed of the outcome and any sanctions imposed on the accused. (See The Rensselaer Handbook for further details.) Good Samaritan Policy (Applicable ONLY to Alcohol and Drug related incidents) Student health and safety are primary concerns of the Rensselaer community. It is imperative that someone call for medical assistance when an individual experiences alcohol intoxication, drug overdose, or serious injury after consuming alcohol or other drugs. In general, people may be reluctant to seek emergency or medical attention for fear of judicial consequences for themselves, the person in need of assistance, and/or the organization hosting the event where the situation occurs. Since these situations are potentially life threatening, Rensselaer seeks to reduce barriers to seeking assistance. Therefore, the Good Samaritan Policy has been developed. The Good Samaritan Policy is part of Rensselaer s approach to reducing harmful consequences caused by the consumption of alcohol and other drugs. The Good Samaritan Policy is the Institute s commitment to increase the likelihood that community members will call for assistance when faced with an alcohol or drug-related emergency. 24

25 Rensselaer Main Campus CAMPUS CRIME STATISTICS *On-Campus Property On-Campus Residential Only Public Property Non-Campus Property Category Murder/Non-Negligent Homicide Negligent Homicide Robbery Aggravated Assault Motor Vehicle Theft Arson Burglary Sex Offense (Forcible) Sex Offense (Non-Forcible) Domestic Violence Dating Violence Stalking Liquor Law Arrests Liquor Law Referrals Drug Law Arrests Drug Law Refferals Illegal Weapons Arrests Illegal Weapons Referrals *This category includes all on-campus incidents, including those listed "In residence halls". These catagories represent a duplication and are not cumulative. 25

26 Bolton Landing Campus CAMPUS CRIME STATISTICS *On-Campus Property On-Campus Residential Only Public Property Non-Campus Property Category Murder/Non-Negligent Homicide Negligent Homicide Robbery Aggravated Assault Motor Vehicle Theft Arson Burglary Sex Offense (Forcible) Sex Offense (Non-Forcible) Domestic Violence Dating Violence Stalking Liquor Law Arrests Liquor Law Referrals Drug Law Arrests Drug Law Refferals Illegal Weapons Arrests Illegal Weapons Referrals *This category includes all on-campus incidents, including those listed "In residence halls". These catagories represent a duplication and are not cumulative. 26

27 RPI Tech Park Campus CAMPUS CRIME STATISTICS *On-Campus Property On-Campus Residential Only Public Property Non-Campus Property Category Murder/Non-Negligent Homicide Negligent Homicide Robbery Aggravated Assault Motor Vehicle Theft Arson Burglary Sex Offense (Forcible) Sex Offense (Non-Forcible) Domestic Violence Dating Violence Stalking Liquor Law Arrests Liquor Law Referrals Drug Law Arrests Drug Law Refferals Illegal Weapons Arrests Illegal Weapons Referrals *This category includes all on-campus incidents, including those listed "In residence halls". These catagories represent a duplication and are not cumulative. 27

28 Watervliet Campus CAMPUS CRIME STATISTICS *On-Campus Property On-Campus Residential Only Public Property Non-Campus Property Category Murder/Non-Negligent Homicide Negligent Homicide Robbery Aggravated Assault Motor Vehicle Theft Arson Burglary Sex Offense (Forcible) Sex Offense (Non-Forcible) Domestic Violence Dating Violence Stalking Liquor Law Arrests Liquor Law Referrals Drug Law Arrests Drug Law Refferals Illegal Weapons Arrests Illegal Weapons Referrals *This category includes all on-campus incidents, including those listed "In residence halls". These catagories represent a duplication and are not cumulative. 28

29 Hartford Campus CAMPUS CRIME STATISTICS *On-Campus Property On-Campus Residential Only Public Property Non-Campus Property Category Murder/Non-Negligent Homicide Negligent Homicide Robbery Aggravated Assault Motor Vehicle Theft Arson Burglary Sex Offense (Forcible) Sex Offense (Non-Forcible) Domestic Violence Dating Violence Stalking Liquor Law Arrests Liquor Law Referrals Drug Law Arrests Drug Law Refferals Illegal Weapons Arrests Illegal Weapons Referrals *This category includes all on-campus incidents, including those listed "In residence halls". These catagories represent a duplication and are not cumulative. 29

30 Groton Campus CAMPUS CRIME STATISTICS *On-Campus Property On-Campus Residential Only Public Property Non-Campus Property Category Murder/Non-Negligent Homicide Negligent Homicide Robbery Aggravated Assault Motor Vehicle Theft Arson Burglary Sex Offense (Forcible) Sex Offense (Non-Forcible) Domestic Violence Dating Violence Stalking Liquor Law Arrests Liquor Law Referrals Drug Law Arrests Drug Law Refferals Illegal Weapons Arrests Illegal Weapons Referrals *This category includes all on-campus incidents, including those listed "In residence halls". These catagories represent a duplication and are not cumulative. 30

31 Hate Crime Statistics Rensselaer is required to disclose the occurrence of the following hate crime when the motivation for the crime is the victim s membership or perceived membership in a particular race, gender, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, nationality, ethnicity or disability: Murder/non-negligent manslaughter Negligent manslaughter Forcible sex offense Non-forcible sex offense Robbery Aggravated assault Burglary Motor vehicle theft Domestic Violence Dating Violence Stalking Larceny-theft Simple Assault Intimidation Destruction, damage, vandalism to property Any other crime involving bodily injury Arson Rensselaer experienced no reported hate crimes in 2012, 2013 or

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33 1. Pittsburgh Building 2.West Hall 3. Carnegie Building 4.Walker Laboratory 5. Boiler House 6. Russell Sage Laboratory 7. Troy Building 8. North Hall 9. E Complex 10. Ricketts Building Gymnasium 12. Quadrangle Complex 13. Russell Sage Dining Hall 14. Low Ctr. for Industrial Innovation 15. Playhouse 17. Darrin Communications Ctr. 18. J. Erik Jonsson Engineering Ctr. 19. Jonsson-Rowland Science Ctr./ Hirsch Observatory 20. Cogswell Laboratory 21. Materials Research Ctr. 22. Voorhees Computing Ctr. 23. Folsom Library 24. Greene Building 25. Lally Hall 26. Amos Eaton Hall Ninth Street 28. Service Building 29. Blaw-Knox 1&2 30. J Building-Incubator Ctr. 31. H Building 32. Alumni House, Heffner Fifteenth Street 34. Admissions 35. Rensselaer Union 36. Public Safety 37. Alumni Sports & Recreation Ctr. 38. Robison Pool 39. Commons Dining Hall 40. Crockett Hall 41. Nason Hall 42. Davison Hall 43. Sharp Hall 44. Nugent Hall 45.Warren Hall 46. Hall Hall 47. Cary Hall 48. Bray Hall 49. Chapel and Cultural Ctr. 50. Burdett Residence Hall Burdett Avenue/ Campus Parking Office Houston Field House 53. Rensselaer Apartment Housing Project RAHP A Site-Single Students Sunset Terrace 55. Seismograph Laboratory 57. Greenhouses and Grounds Barn 58. Linac Facility/Gaerttner Laboratory 59. Stacwyck 60. Radio Club W2SZ 61. Bryckwyck 62. Rensselaer Apartment Housing Project RAHP B Site-Married Students 65. Patroon Manor (1 Detroit Drive) 66. Colonie Apartments 67. Academy Hall/Financial Aid Student Life Services Center/ Health Center 68. Empire State Hall 69. Beman Park Firehouse Sunset Terrace 72. Mueller Center 73. Barton Hall 74. Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies Building 75. Parking Garage 76. Experimental Media and Performing Arts Center - EMPAC 77. Boiler House 2 78.Winslow Building 79. Lewis Rubin Memorial Approach 80. Moe s Southwest Grill, 1527 Fifteenth Street 81. RPI Ambulance 85. Blitman Residence Commons 86. Polytechnic Residence Commons 89. East Campus Athletic Village Arena 90. East Campus Athletic Village Stadium 33

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