Statement: Sexual assault is defined as rape, forcible sodomy, sexual penetration with an inanimate object, fondling or touching of an unwilling person's intimate parts (genitalia, groin, breast or buttocks, covered or uncovered), or forcing an unwilling person to touch another's intimate parts. Included in the offense of any of these acts are persons known to the victim as well as persons unknown to the victim. The offending acts can be committed through the use of force, the threat of force by intimidation, or not forcibly or against the person's will where the victim is incapable of giving consent due to the substantial use of alcohol or drugs or for other verified reasons.

           A sexual assault (as defined above) of any university student, faculty, or staff member which occurs either on or off campus perpetrated by another student, faculty or staff member will be adjudicated by using the disciplinary process appropriate to the alleged assailant. Disciplinary action may be initiated in addition to, and separate from, any criminal charges which may be pending for the same alleged offense.

           It is a violation of university policy for any member of the university community to make an intentionally false accusation of sexual assault.

           Incidents of sexual assault can be reported to university authorities by contacting the vice president for student services/dean of students, a residence hall staff member, the Women's Center, Counseling Services, Student Health Services, or the Department of Public Safety. Each of these areas has individuals trained to handle reports of sexual assault.

           If an individual chooses to report the sexual assault to someone in any of these offices other than Public Safety, the staff member will update the Sexual Assault Incident Report (SAIR) form (anonymously at the victim/ survivor's request) and submit it to the S.A.F.E. program coordinator in the Women's Center within 24 hours.

           Counseling, crisis-intervention, and medical assistance will be made available to the victim through RESPONSE (622-4300) and through campus services such as the Women's Center, Counseling Services, and Student Health Services. A victim may choose to contact any of the above services for support and information whether or not she/he chooses to report the assault to Public Safety or the Police.