Sexual Assault / Sexual Harassment

Sexual Assault and the Law

• Harassment and intimidation of the campus community (students, faculty, staff and visitors) will not be tolerated.

• Any sexual offense reported to the University Police will be promptly investigated.

• Cases will be prosecuted criminally according to the New York State Penal Law and the Criminal Procedure Law.

• Interviews of the victim are necessary:  during the investigation, the emotional and physical well-being of the victim is paramount.

• Case MAY also be referred to the Campus Judicial System for appropriate action.

• The campus provides programs for the prevention of sexual assualt.  For example, R.A.D.

• Support services are provided for victims of sexual assault.  Refer to the resource list below.

• The College will pursue strong disciplinary action (including the possible suspension or dismissal from the College) through its own channels in addition to appropriate police action.

• Should the victim and the accused reside in the same Residence Hall, an immediate hearing with the College Judicial Officer will be held to determine the need to modify living arrangements.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q:  What constitutes sexual assault?

A:  There are various forms of sexual assault as defined in the New York State Penal Law ranging from Sexual Misconduct, Rape and Forcible Touching.  As a rule, any unwanted forcible or unwanted touching of a person's sexual parts, unwanted or non-consensual sexual relations (including being in a state which prevents an individual from actively resisting or saying "No").  Police interviews and investigation will determine which form of sexual assault has taken place.

Q:  What do I do if I have been sexually assaulted on campus?

A:  First and foremest:  get to a safe place.  Call University Police directly at 251-6911 or use an  Emergency Blue Light phone.

• Try to preserve all physical evidence:  do not shower, do not bathe, or do not douche.

• Do not change your clothes.

• Talk to someone you trust (friend, family member, professor, professional staff, et cetera).

• Seek help at Health Services

• Counseling services and other resources are available:

  • University Police / 251-6911

  • Counseling Center / 251-6390

  • Student Health Services / 251-6380

  • Safe Campus Incident Reporting Hotline / 251-6868

  • Health and Peer Education / 251-6657

  • Westchester County Victim's Assistance Services / 355-3113

  • Westchester County Rape Crises 24-Hour Helpline / 345-9111

  • NYS 24-Hour Domestic Violence Hotline / 1-800-942-6906

Q:  What are my rights during the disciplinary process?

A:  The victim's rights:

• To have a person(s) of their choice to accompany them during the disciplinary process.

• To remain present during the entire disciplinary process.

• His / her irrelevant past sexual history will not be discussed throughout the hearing.

• To make a "Victim Impact Statement" and to suggest appropriate penalty if the accused is found in violation.

• To be immediately formed of the outcome of the hearing.

Q:  How can I protect myself?

A:  Attend campus education / awareness programs.  Additionally:

• RAD program:  Rape Aggression Defense.

• Peer Education / 251-6657

• Sexual Assault Workshops / 251-6657