Campus Security & Safety Report

Introduction How to Report a Crime
Emergency Alert System  
Campus Security Objective Confidential Crime Reporting Policy
Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act Timely Warning Policy
Student Enrollment/Employees Loitering
Security & Access to Campus
      Facilities
Selling, Peddling, Soliciting, etc.
      on Campus
Reporting of On-Campus Crimes
       & Incidents
Advisory Committee on Campus
      Security
Daily Crime Log Policy on Alcohol and Drugs
Campus Security and Their
      Relationship with Law Enforcement
Investigation of Violent Felony
       Offenses & Missing Students
Smoke Free Campus Cars on Campus
Weapons on Campus Student ID
Crime Prevention Activities Visitors to Campus
Bias Crimes Information Emergencies on Campus
Sexual Crimes Information Offense Definitions
Campus & Community Resources
 
         
Crime Statistics
          Valhalla Campus
          Peekskill Campus
          Ossining Campus

          Mount Vernon Campus

Introduction

The purpose of this report is to provide our faculty, staff, and students with campus security and safety information in order that their experiences at Westchester Community College may be safe and enjoyable.  This report is prepared by the Westchester Community College Security Department and any questions regarding it should be directed to Campus Security, located in Room #113 of the Student Center Building, or telephone (914) 606-6730.  

This report is filed as required by the federal "Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act," (hereafter referred to as the Campus Safety Act) which was last amended in 1998. This report includes statistics for the previous three years concerning reported crimes that occurred on campus, in certain off campus buildings or property owned or controlled by Westchester Community College, and on public property within, or immediately adjacent to, and accessible from the campus. This report also includes institutional policies concerning campus security, alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters.  The Advisory Committee on Campus Safety will provide upon request all campus crime statistics as reported to the United States Department of Education.  To obtain these crime statistics, access the U.S. Department of Education website at: 

http://www.ope.ed.gov/security/Search.asp.

To get a copy of the full report and crime statistics, contact the Security Office, Room 113 in the Student Center Building (914-606-6730) or access the following website:

http://www.sunywcc.edu/security        

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Emergency Alert System
In case of a major campus EMERGENCY, Westchester Community College wants to contact YOU.  You may sign up for this emergency alert system at http://www.suny.edu/sunyalert.  You will be required to provide your name and an e-mail address, as well as information for any additional notification media you would like to enroll (i.e.- cell phone, text message, fax, etc.). Your information will be kept confidential and ONLY used in a major emergency.

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Campus Security Objective
The objective of Campus Security is to provide a safe environment for teaching, research and social endeavors and to protect the lives and property of the students, employees, and visitors to Westchester Community College. This objective is pursued within the framework of Westchester Community College’s rules and regulations and all local, state, and federal laws. The investigation of crimes committed on campus fall under the jurisdiction the Westchester County Police with assistance from the Director of Campus Security and his assistants. Campus Security administrators maintain an excellent rapport with the local police and work closely with them to maintain a safe campus.

The college upholds the rights of students and staff to know of incidents which occur on campus, measures taken to promote precautions, and swift effective responses to crises. The responsibility for maintaining personal and campus safety is shared by all students, faculty, and staff of the College.

Westchester Community College and the Security Department recognize the necessity of a community which is open and intellectually stimulating, where diversity of ideas is valued and every person’s safety, dignity and autonomy is respected whether they are students, faculty, or staff, and regardless of race, ethnicity, age, religion, class, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, or disability.

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The Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act  

The Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act (section 106 of Public Law 106-39) is a federal law enacted on October 28, 2000 that provides for the tracking of convicted sex offenders enrolled at or employed by institutions of higher education. This law requires institutions of higher education to issue a statement advising the campus community where law enforcement agency information provided by a State, concerning registered sex offenders, may be obtained. In New York, you can obtain this information by contacting the Division of Criminal Justice Services at 1-900-288-3838 or visiting their web site at http://www.criminaljustice.state.ny.us/nsor/index.htm. To request information you must be at least 18 years old and must provide your name, address, and telephone number. The Information Line is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.; it is not open on state holidays.

      

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Student Enrollment/Employees
n the Fall Semester of 2004, a total of 11,935 students (5,505 full time and 6,430 part-time) were enrolled at Westchester Community College.  Continuing education students brought the total number served by the college to over 18,700. In addition, the college has 556 full time employees and over 1,000 adjunct professors. 

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SECURITY AND ACCESS TO CAMPUS FACILITIES
In order to gain access to campus facilities outside of normal college hours (Monday-Friday 7am-10:30pm), persons must arrange with the Facilities Coordinator for the use of the facilities. After permission has been obtained, the Director of Security must be contacted for arrangements to gain access to the building(s). The Director of Security in conjunction with other administrators will determine the need for Westchester County Police or contract security officers to be assigned to events held at Westchester Community College. Any incidents occurring at these events should be reported to, and handled by Campus Security.

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REPORTING OF ON-CAMPUS CRIMES AND INCIDENTS
The Director of Campus Security at Westchester Community records crime and incident statistics throughout the year. These statistics are recorded in monthly campus security reports sent to the President of the college and the Dean and Vice President of Administrative Services. These statistics are totaled at the end of the year and shared with the college community. These statistics are also reported to the United States Department of Education and made available to the public. The last section of this report contains campus crime statistics including arrests and disciplinary referral made to campus authorities for alcohol, drugs, and weapons possession. As defined by the Campus Safety Act, a referral is an instance when a student is formally reported in writing to a college officer for possible sanction.

As required by the Campus Safety Act, Westchester Community College must include hate crime statistics in this report. A hate crime occurs when a person is victimized intentionally because of his/her actual or perceived race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity or disability. 

Formal requests for crime statistics for areas defined as "public property" and "non-campus buildings and property" were made with local police departments for the main campus and all off site locations. The definitions of these offenses, which are defined in the "Uniform Crime Report" and the "Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act," appear later in this report.

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 DAILY CRIME LOG Campus Security maintains a daily log of crimes and incidents occurring on campus that is available for the public to view. This information is recorded by date, time, general location, and disposition of the complaint. The daily log is available at the Security Office, Student Center, Room #113 Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Entries or updates are generally made within two business days after the event occurs. Incidents or situations deemed to pose a threat to the campus community are logged as soon as possible. While most events are logged, the Director of Campus Security may determine that an incident be temporarily classified as "confidential" in order not to jeopardize a criminal investigation or the identity of a victim. 

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CAMPUS SECURITY AND THEIR RELATIONSHIP WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT
The Westchester County Department of Public Safety has primary law enforcement jurisdiction at the Valhalla Campus and is responsible for the investigation of all crimes reported on campus.  Primary law enforcement jurisdiction at each Extension Center falls to the Police Department having jurisdiction in the municipality where the center is located.

Members of the Campus Security Department do not have peace or police officer arrest powers, but two members of the Westchester Community College Campus Security Department are former Lieutenants of the New York City Police Department and have extensive knowledge of police procedures. In addition, the following is the status of Campus Security: 

  1. Uniformed Security Officers and Supervisors are provided twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week through a contract service. 

  2. Uniformed security staffing levels are adjusted throughout the year as appropriate.  Staffing levels are highest during the fall and spring semesters, when the college is open. 

  3. The guardhouse is staffed twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. 

  4. Immediate response to emergencies is provided by Security Department personnel and by Westchester County Police, Fire, and Emergency Medical personnel. 

  5. Westchester County Police patrol the campus Monday through Friday, eight hours a day, during the fall and spring semesters.

  6. Additional Uniformed Security Officers and/or Westchester County Police Officers are provided as needed for special events.

 

NOTE: The contract security officers receive eight hours of pre-employment training, sixteen hours of on the job training, and eight hours of annual refresher training as required by New York State.  Additionally, all Security Officers receive 16 hours of site-specific training at the college prior to assignment. They do not have police or peace officer arrest powers.

Criminal activity at off-campus property is monitored by the Campus Security Department in cooperation with the local police. Students involved in off-campus situations involving alcohol/drug offenses or other criminal activities may be referred for campus disciplinary procedures.

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INVESTIGATION OF VIOLENT FELONY OFFENSES & MISSING STUDENTS

Article 129-A of the New York State Education Law requires all public, private, community colleges and universities in New York State to adopt and implement rules and a plan for investigating violent felony offenses committed on campus and also for the investigation of any report received of a missing student who resides on campus. Furthermore, the law requires that the plan shall provide for coordination with local enforcement agencies, and shall include written agreements with these agencies for the prompt investigation of these crimes.  In compliance with this requirement, Westchester Community College has established a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Westchester County Department of Public Safety, establishing guidelines for the coordination of law enforcement efforts on the campus and the investigation of crimes, including those listed above.

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ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON CAMPUS SECURITY As required by Article 129-A of the New York State Education Law, Westchester Community College maintains an Advisory Committee on Campus Security.  This committee meets regularly to review, and recommend improvements to, WCC policies and procedures relating to a variety of security and personal safety issues.  The Advisory Committee on Campus Safety will provide upon request all campus crime statistics as reported to the United States Department of Education.  See the introduction above for further information about receiving these statistics.

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CRIME PREVENTION ACTIVITIES
The WCC campus is generally a safe and secure environment; however, it is a public access facility, and we cannot guarantee who is on the campus and for what purpose. You must be alert for your own safety and security. Listed below are some suggestions for your safety:

  1. Pay careful attention to your personal belongings.
    • Keep purses, gym bags, book bags and wallets in your view or under lock and key.
    • Because textbooks are expensive, they may be a temptation to a thief. Put your name on each book, and do not leave your books unattended.
  2. Lock your car doors each time you leave the car.
  3. Leave nothing in your car within view of a potential thief. Do not, for instance, store your books on the back seat.
  4. Have your car keys in hand before leaving a building.
  5. Evening students in particular are encouraged to walk in groups to cars and bus stops after leaving class or the Library.
  6. Members of the college community are urged to secure their valuables and be aware of their surroundings.

 

Additionally, the following security measures are in place for your safety:

  • Campus Security in conjunction with other departments hold educational programs each semester on a variety of topics including personal safety awareness, rape awareness, sexual assault training, and anti theft programs.
  • Information on safety and security is provided to students and employees upon request via seminars, crime alerts, campus wide e-mail, posters, and the college student newspaper.
  • During orientation, students are informed of upcoming safety programs and the safety services available on campus.
  • The campus is well lighted in parking areas and pathways frequently traveled by students.
  • There are Emergency Blue Light Phones strategically-located throughout the campus that connect directly with the County Police without having to dial. These phones are for emergencies requiring immediate police assistance.  Directions for proper use are printed on the inside of the call box in English and Spanish.
  • There is a "Campus Emergency Phone" in the lobby of each building.  This phone will automatically dial the college Emergency Number (ext. 6-911) when activated.
  • By calling extension 6984, or (914) 606-6984 from an outside phone, a person may request an escort to his/her automobile.
  • To contact the Security Department for an emergency dial 6-911 from any college phone. If calling from a payphone or other outside phone, dial (914) 606-6911.
  • It should be noted that in addition to the above security suggestions the College makes free cell phones available for any student in need of a 911 emergency connection. Please contact our Security Office in the Student Center.
  • The Security Department will assist students and staff in obtaining and enforcing orders of protection when necessary.

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BIAS CRIMES INFORMATION Generally, a person commits a hate crime when he or she commits a specified offense  and is motivated in whole or in part by bias on the part of the offender toward  the race, color, national origin, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age (sixty or older), or disability of the victim. 

Penalties for bias related crimes range from monetary fines up to a minimum of twenty years in prison, depending on the nature of a specific offense.  Specific information regarding hate crime offenses and related penalties may be obtained from article 485 of the New York State Penal Law. 

Whenever a member of the college community becomes a victim of a bias related crime, that member shall notify the Westchester Community College Security Department as soon as possible. The Security Department will respond, ascertain information for a report, and make the following notifications as appropriate:

  • Local police

  • President’s office

  •  Associate Dean of Student Personnel Services

  • Counseling

  • Director of Personnel (staff involved)

  • Other notifications where warranted

All reports of bias crimes will be investigated and perpetrators will be subject to administrative discipline consistent with Westchester Community College policies and procedures as well as criminal prosecution as allowed by law.

The Westchester Community College Department of Counseling and Student Development is available to assist any individual who believes they are the victim of a bias crime. The services include not only the coordination of intervention with other campus departments, but also on campus counseling as well as referrals to off-campus agencies and services.

The only bias crimes that have been reported to the Westchester Community College Security Department have been occasional defacing of property by writing disparaging remarks, tearing/scratching posters, etc.

The Security Department utilizes the following methods to advise students, faculty and staff about security measures on campus:

  • WCC website

  • Annual Campus Security & Safety Report

  • Student Handbook

  • Faculty Handbook

  • Informational brochures issued by the Security Department

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SEXUAL CRIMES INFORMATION
Westchester Community College (WCC) is committed to creating a community free from violence. Sexual assault, harassment, dating/domestic violence and stalking as defined by State and Federal law will not be tolerated at WCC, college supported events or activities, or at functions of recognized student organizations, on or off campus. WCC will take action, as needed, to discourage, prevent, correct and if necessary, discipline behavior that violates this standard of conduct. Such discipline will depend on the nature of the offense and may range from a disciplinary warning up to and including expulsion from the college.  More detailed information related to disciplinary process and sanctions may be found in the Student Handbook. 

Additionally, such offenses may constitute crimes according to Federal and New York State Law and would be subject to criminal prosecution. 

Confidentiality is fundamental to all aspects of cases dealing with sexual assault. The names of sexual assault victims shall not be revealed by persons responsible for implementing and enforcing the provisions of this policy, except with the consent of the victim. 

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General Definition of Terms
Sexual Assault is defined as any sexual contact/ intrusion/ penetration that is absent or without consent by all parties. Examples include, but are not limited to: a) touching breasts or another’s genitals without their consent (through clothing or skin to skin contact), b) having sexual contact/ intrusion/ penetration with someone who is incapacitated (one who is incapable of making a rational decision; e.g. from alcohol/drug usage), c) continuing sexual activity after either party has made clear, either verbally or by conduct, that they do not wish to have physical contact.  

Dating/Domestic Violence is the intentional use of abusive tactics and physical force in order to obtain and maintain power and control over an intimate partner. 

Stalking is defined in general terms as engaging in a course of conduct or repeatedly committing acts towards another person, including following another person without proper authority with either: intent to place the person in reasonable fear of bodily injury, or intent to cause substantial emotional distress to the person. 

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Applicable Laws & Penalties

New York State laws applicable to sexual assault are found in Article 130 of the New York State Penal Code. The laws provide the legal definitions of sex offenses. One significant element of every sex offense is the lack of consent.  

Forcing or coercing someone to have sexual intercourse or engage in other sexual behavior is against the law. 

Specifically, in New York State, if a woman has sexual intercourse because she is fearful for her life or her safety, or if she is unable to consent, the behavior of the perpetrator is considered rape.  The perpetrator does not need to use a weapon or beat her to make her fearful for her safety. 

She is considered unable to consent if she is incapacitated or is physically helpless due to drug or alcohol consumption, is mentally incompetent, is asleep, or is less than 17 years of age.  If a female has intercourse under these circumstances, it is rape. Forcing or coercing a man or a woman to engage in any sexual experience other than sexual intercourse under the circumstances mentioned above is considered sexual abuse. 

In part, the law defines various offenses and applicable penalties as follows: 

Sexual Misconduct, a class A misdemeanor, up to 1 year imprisonment

Rape in the Third Degree, a class E felony, up to 3 years imprisonment

Rape in the Second Degree, a class D felony, up to 19years imprisonment

Rape in the. First Degree, a class B felony, up to 25 years imprisonment

Sodomy in the Third Degree, a class E felony, up to 3 years imprisonment

Sodomy in the Second Degree, a class D felony, up to 10 years imprisonment

Sodomy in the First Degree, a class B felony, up to 25 years imprisonment

Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree, a class A misdemeanor, up to 1year imprisonment

Sexual Abuse in the First Degree, a class D felony, up to 10 years imprisonment.

Stalking in the Fourth Degree, a class B misdemeanor, up to 6 months imprisonment and a fine.

Stalking in the Third Degree, a class A misdemeanor.

Stalking in the Second Degree, a class E Felony.

Stalking in the First Degree, a class D Felony.

Sexual Assault

Allegations of sexual assault or rape should be reported to the Police by dialing 911 or Campus Security at the emergency number 6-911 or (914) 606-6730. A professional staff member from WCC will meet with you confidentially and will pursue formal disciplinary action only with your consent. Both the accused and the accuser are entitled to the same opportunities to have others present during such proceedings, and both the accused and accuser are informed of the outcome of such proceedings. Anyone may initiate such an action against a WCC student.  

Victims of a sex offense will also be informed of their option to notify either Campus Security or the County Police, and will be assisted by college personnel in notifying the police if desired.

 

If You Have Been Sexually Assaulted

  • Go to a safe place. Call someone you trust for support. Sexual Assault Crisis Line Counselors are available 24 hours a day. To be automatically connected with 24-hour rape hotline, please call (914) 345-9111.

  • Help preserve evidence. Don't change anything about the scene where the assault occurred.  Don't wash any part of your body, comb your hair or change clothes.

  • Get medical attention as soon as possible. A medical examination is important to detect injury and for possible protection against a sexually transmitted disease or pregnancy.

  • Think about reporting the assault to the police.  Telling the police does not mean that you have to prosecute (go to trial).

  • If you do want to prosecute, it is essential to have a rape exam at a hospital emergency room soon after the assault. To increase your options later, this exam is recommended, even if you are unsure about prosecution.

  • Following a sexual assault, you may feel shock, embarrassment, shame, guilt, disbelief, anger, anxiety or nothing at all. These are all normal reactions to a violent crime.

  • Remember, IT IS NOT YOUR FAULT.

  • Sometimes months or even years after an assault, survivors re-experience feelings they had immediately following the attack. Counseling or support groups may help at these times.

  • You may be eligible for compensation of medical costs or losses incurred as a result of a sexual assault. In order to receive assistance, contact Victims Assistance Services at (914) 345-3113.

  • Decisions made after a sexual assault are difficult; there are no right answers, only what is right for you. Get the support you deserve.

 Victims Rights

  1. Victims have the right to choose counseling and medical treatment and to prosecute and report their case through the college judicial system and or the off-campus court system. They have the right to refuse all these options without reproach from any university personnel.

  2. Victims have the right to be treated with dignity and seriousness by campus personnel.

  3. Victims of crimes against an individual have the right to be reasonably free from intimidation and harm.

  4. College personnel are encouraged to inform all victims that:

  • Victims are not responsible for crimes committed against them

  • Victims are not negligent and do not assume the risk of crime

  • Victims should always report their crime, despite the possibility of adverse publicity for the university

  • Victims will be made aware of appropriate student services, including counseling

  • Victims are entitled to the same support opportunities available to the accused in a campus disciplinary proceeding

  • The victim has the right to information regarding the status of his/her case

  • Any victim who does not wish to remain in his/her present class section may be granted a transfer to another class section if available

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 Substance Abuse and Sexual Assault
Some Basic Facts on the criminal use of sedating substances to facilitate sexual assault: 

For centuries alcohol has been used to facilitate sexual assault. Today it remains the substance most frequently associated with date rape, and the most accessible sedating substance. Other sedating drugs are increasingly being misused to commit sexual assault by spiking victims' beverages. These are referred to by a number of street names of which you should be aware. These include Liquid Ecstasy, Liquid X, Grievous Bodily Harm and Easy Lay for GHB, and Special K for ketamine. Common street names for Rohypnol include Roofies, Roachies, La Rocha and the forget pill.

The physical effects of alcohol and sedating drugs are very similar and include impaired judgment and motor coordination, disinhibition, dizziness, confusion and extreme drowsiness. If enough alcohol or sedating substances are consumed, an individual may fall unconscious or may not remember the details of what occurred. Depending on the substance and the presence of alcohol and other drugs in the person's system, more dangerous and sometimes life-threatening side effects may occur. 

How to reduce the risk of being drugged and sexually assaulted:

  • Do not leave beverages unattended.

  • Do not take any beverages, including alcohol, from someone you do not know well and trust.

  • At a bar or club, accept drinks only from the bartender or server.

  • At parties, do not accept open-container drinks from anyone.

  • Be alert to the behavior of friends and ask them to watch out for you. Anyone extremely intoxicated after consuming only a small amount of alcohol may be in danger.

  • Limit alcohol consumption so you are better able to assess your surroundings and eat substantive food before drinking to help curb its sedating effects.

  • When drinking in social settings, make arrangements with a friend so that you can leave together.

Most importantly, remember that whether you follow these tips or not, if someone sexually assaults you, it is not your fault. You are never to blame for someone else's actions.

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Precautions
Even the best self-defense program cannot completely prevent sexual assault.

Be aware that everyone is a potential victim of sexual assault. The most vulnerable target is a woman alone. It is a myth that assault is provoked by a woman's dress or mannerisms. Opportunity and vulnerability are the key factors. Over 80 percent of all sexual assaults are committed by an acquaintance of the victim, but almost half of these victims tell no one about the attack. Many attacks begin with casual conversation. If your gut-level response to a stranger or friend is uneasiness, try and get out of the situation as quickly as possible, even if it means being rude or making a scene. The keys to prevention are awareness, trusting your intuition, and assertive behavior. Take the time to think ahead what you might do in the event of an attack.

The following tips are designed to increase your awareness of personal safety and to encourage you to think ahead about how you would react if assaulted:

·       Be alert to your surroundings

-       Know your route and stay in well-lighted areas.  Walk confidently.

-       Walk with other people whenever possible.

-       Consider carrying a whistle on your key chain and use it if you find yourself in danger.

-       Know the locations of public and blue light telephones, and keep change handy.

-       If you are walking alone, don't use headphones; they distract you and prevent you from being alert.

·       If you travel by car

-       Always keep your car locked, while you are riding and when it is parked.

-       When returning to your car, do so with your keys in your hand.

-       Check the back seat before you get in.

-       After you get in, re-lock the car immediately and keep the windows up.

-       Do not stop to assist stalled drivers. Drive on and call the police.

-       Do not accept assistance if your car is stalled. Tell anyone who offers help to call the police.

-       Do not pick up hitchhikers.

·       If you travel by bus

-       Go to the bus stop with other people whenever possible, particularly at night.

-       Don't accept rides from strangers.

·       If you feel you are being followed

-       Walk to the nearest occupied or well-lighted building, not to your car or a bus stop. If on campus, contact campus security for assistance; if off-campus, call the police.  Note the appearance of the person or persons; note the license plate number of the car. Your personal safety should come before the security of belongings, such as books, bags, etc. When in doubt, leave them behind.

·       If you feel threatened

-       Shout "Leave me alone." Others may hear you and/or the potential criminal may be frightened away.

-       Trust your instincts.  If you feel in danger, you probably are; don't be embarrassed to seek assistance.

·       Cell phone program

-       The college provides free 911 cell phones to students and others on campus who have reason to fear for their safety. Contact Security or one of the offices listed for more information.

·       Blue light phones

-       There are 15 strategically located emergency blue light phones on campus that connect directly with the County Police without having to dial. These phones are for emergencies requiring immediate police assistance. Directions for proper use are printed on the inside of the call box in English and Spanish.

·       At home, keep the doors and windows locked.  Ask repair, service or delivery persons for identification or have them wait outside while you call to verify their employment.

·       Learn to defend yourself.

·       Teach children about the potential for sexual assault and what to do if they are ever approached inappropriately. Children should be told that they are never responsible for sexual assault and to tell a trusted adult if an assault should ever occur.

Report all incidents to Security if on campus, to the police if off campus.

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Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment includes any unwanted verbal or physical sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, sexually explicit derogatory remarks, and sexually discriminating remarks which are offensive or objectionable to the person at whom they are directed or which cause a person discomfort or humiliation. 

Sexual harassment can be as subtle as a look or as blatant as rape. Women are most often, though not solely, its victims. 

Verbal harassment may include "humor" or "jokes" about women, sex, or sexual orientation, or remarks connecting a person’s sex with intellectual or academic abilities. Whether verbal or physical, sexual harassment is an act of aggression. It is a violation of both federal (Section 703 of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Title IX Education Amendments of 1972) and New York State Human Rights law. 

Verbal harassment may include: sexual innuendos and comments and sexual remarks about clothing, body, or sexual activities; suggestive or insulting sounds; sexual propositions, invitations or other pressure for sex ("My office hours are limited. Why don’t you come by my house, or we can have dinner, and get to know each other better in privacy."); implied or overt threats ("It’s simple; if you want to pass the course, you have to be nice to me and sex is the nicest thing I can think of. It’s up to you.") 

Physical harassment may include: patting, pinching or other inappropriate touching or feeling; brushing against the body; attempted or actual kissing or fondling; coerced sexual intercourse. 

Other kinds of sexual harassment may include: leering or ogling (for example, an advisor who meets with a student and stares at her breasts); obscene gestures. If you feel you are being sexually harassed at WCC, you may request help from several sources: 

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Sexual Harassment Officers

Allegations of sexual harassment should be reported to the college’s Sexual Harassment Officers, Susan Stanton (914-606-6931) or Dean Kevin Slavin (914-606-6733), The Women’s Forum (914-606-6901), your faculty advisor, or your counselor.  They will investigate sexual harassment complaints and institute the formal procedures for resolving them. These procedures are in accordance with collective bargaining agreements and established college policies and guidelines. 

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Student Affairs

As with other complaints about discrimination, students can contact Kevin Slavin, Assoc. Dean, Student Personnel Services, in the Student Center (914-606-6733), Wendell Mims, Coordinator of Student Life or Iris Cordero, Coordinator of Student Activities (Student Center, 914-606-6731). After hearing your complaint, they may suggest several courses of action, including contacting the department head of the faculty member or staff person involved, or the relevant Dean, with mediated discussion and/or hearings, which ensure confidentiality. In cases of physical harassment, they will call on security personnel, if necessary.

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Counselor

Students may also feel comfortable approaching a counselor or a faculty advisor to get advice and support, or to make an initial complaint.

Women’s Forum

Adult women students may wish to go to counselors in the Women’s Forum for assistance. Employees, too, can consider Women’s Forum as a support service. Call 914-606-6901 for additional information.

CAMPUS AND COMMUNITY RESOURCES

The following programs and services are available in Westchester County to provide assistance to you in an emergency situation or for on-going support in dealing with and recovering from a sex offense.

Westchester Community College

Associate Dean of Students   914-606-6733             Room 219, Student Center

Security Office                       914-606-6730             Room 113, Student Center

Student Health Services         914-606-6610             Room 112, Student Center

Counseling & Student Development         914-606-6778             Room 217A, Student Center

Dean of Student Personnel Services     914-606-6709             Hartford Hall

Women’s Forum        914-606-6901             Room 118, Science Bldg.

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Community Resources

            Domestic Violence & Special Prosecution Bureau   914-995-3000

Westchester Medical Center

Main Number             914-493-7000

Crisis Intervention      914-493-7075

Westchester County Police    914-864-7600

Westchester Jewish             914-761-0600             845 N. Broadway, Suite 2

Community Services White Plains

Victims Assistance Services  914-345-3113             2269 Saw Mill River Road Bldg. #3, Elmsford

24-hr. Rape Crisis Hot Line   914-345-9111

No matter where or when the assault occurred, support and referral resources are available to help you in notifying local law enforcement.

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HOW TO REPORT A CRIME:

All criminal incidents and emergencies should be reported to the Campus Security Office located in the Student Center Building, room 113, in person, or by telephone (914-606-6984). Our emergency phone number is 6-911. If necessary, the Westchester County Police will be informed of the incident. The Westchester County Police can be contacted directly by using the Campus Blue Light Emergency Phones or by dialing 911 from any phone (9-911 from college phones). A County officer will be dispatched immediately to the site of the complaint. These phones should be used only for emergencies.  

Campus Security will record, classify, and log all reports received. Individuals reporting incidents will be informed of their rights and given an opportunity to file a police report for insurance or criminal purposes. All reported incidents are reviewed on an on going basis to determine patterns and required corrective action. Any incident of extreme serious nature will be immediately reported to the President or his designee. A strong working relationship between Campus Security and the local police departments will be maintained. Third party reports will not be accepted by a police officer. Only persons who are involved directly in such incidents should report them.  

In the event of a major emergency or anything that poses a threat to students, employees, or others, an alert will be prepared by posting notifications on all campus outer doors and distributing a campus e-mail notification. 

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CONFIDENTIAL CRIME REPORTING POLICY

Persons wanting to report a crime or incident can do so confidentially by contacting the Director of Campus Security, or one of his assistants, in his office (room 113 in the Student Center) or by calling 914-606-6730. The reporting person’s name will be kept confidential, but the incident may be included in the annual crime statistics report without divulging the person’s name or any other information that would infringe on his/her confidentiality. 

In addition to the campus Security Office, crimes or serious incidents may also be reported to individuals and officials having significant responsibility for students or campus activities, or those with responsibility for controlling access to buildings or facilities (i.e.- Security Department members, Deans, Extension Site Directors, Coordinators of Student Activities/Life/Athletics, Faculty Advisors to student groups, Director of Athletics, Coaches, etc.). These individuals also allow victims and witnesses to report crime on a voluntary, confidential basis. Reports of this nature are filed with the Campus Security for informational purposes. 

Although professional counselors at the college are exempt from disclosing reported offenses when acting in their professional capacity, Westchester Community College encourages them, if and when they deem it appropriate, to inform those who they counsel of procedures for reporting crimes on a voluntary, confidential basis for inclusion in the Campus Security & Safety Report. 

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TIMELY WARNING POLICY

Westchester Community College’s policy is to issue timely warnings to the campus community upon the confirmation of a significant emergency or dangerous situation involving an immediate threat to health & safety; and for certain crimes that are reported to campus security authorities or local police agencies and are considered to represent a threat to students and employees, unless issuing a notification will compromise efforts to contain the emergency. 

Warnings may be issued by any of the following means: campus-wide email, notices placed on external doors on all buildings, voice mail, Intranet web site, electronic signs, and the Viking News.  Additionally, Westchester Community College participates in the SUNY Emergency Alert system which can issue alert information via voice, text, e-mail, and fax messaging.  To sign up to receive alerts through this system, go to http://www.suny.edu/sunyalert, follow the instructions and enter the requested information.

LOITERING

All visitors to the College not having an acceptable, legitimate reason for being on campus are subject to prosecution for loitering under the provisions of Section 240.35 of the New York State Penal Law.

SELLING, PEDDLING, SOLICITING, ETC. ON CAMPUS

Selling merchandise or services, soliciting funds, advertising or distributing leaflets or flyers is strictly prohibited without prior consent from the Office of Student Affairs.  Additionally it is a violation of Westchester County Law and may result in arrest. 

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WEAPONS ON CAMPUS:

Firearms and dangerous weapons of any type are not permitted on campus. Intentional use, possession, or sale of firearms or other dangerous weapons by anyone is strictly forbidden and is a violation of state and federal law. 

POLICY ON ALCOHOL AND DRUGS

Alcohol and drug abuse are devastating both to the user and to the college community. Substance abuse is a major cause of accidents, and can seriously affect academic performance and campus morale.  In addition, under local, state, and federal laws, illegal use of drugs and alcohol is a serious crime. Conviction of a felony carries serious consequences, including loss of citizenship rights during the period of sentence and a possible jail term. Convictions may also jeopardize future employment opportunities. 

The college policy prohibits alcohol and illegal substances on campus. Violators of this policy will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action. Only by special permission from the President may wine or beer be served at special ceremonial occasions. Several documents (student’s rights document and a pamphlet on enforcement of federal and drug laws) are made available to students, which explain the college’s policy regarding the use of alcohol and illegal substances. The College Health Office and Counseling Department in conjunction with the National Council of Alcoholism and Drug Addictions conduct workshops which students are encouraged to attend for information and possible assistance with their alcohol and substance abuse problems. 

Further information on the legal consequences of alcohol and drug abuse can be found in the Library/Educational Technologies Center under Public Law 101-226. Additional information is also available from the Associate Dean of Student Personnel Services Office, Room 219, the Office of Student Affairs, Room 109, or the Security Department, Room 113, in the Student Center Building.

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CARS ON CAMPUS

Westchester Community College is pleased to offer free parking to students, faculty, staff and members of the general public attending events on campus. WCC assumes no liability for theft, loss or damage to vehicles on college property. We encourage you to keep your vehicle locked and to remove attractive articles from view. For a parking sticker, go to the Security Office in the Student Center. Make sure that you have your license number and your WCC student ID with you.

For further information about rules, handicap parking, ticketing, towing, or fines please see the Automobile Regulations brochure available through the Security Office, Student Center, Room 113, or call 914-606-6730. 

LOST & FOUND:

If you’ve lost something, check the Security Office in Room #113 of the Student Center or call 914-606-6730. You should also check the Associate Dean’s Office in any building where you have lost an item. Property may be claimed Monday through Friday during normal business hours. 

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SMOKE FREE CAMPUS

The Surgeon General of the United States has determined that cigarette smoking is the largest preventable cause of illness and premature death in this country. Non-smokers regularly exposed to tobacco smoke are also at increased risk. Westchester Community College has been, and continues to be, committed to the health and well-being of its staff, faculty, and students. The College not only has a vested interest in the vitality of its students and those who administer and operate the programs here, but also a role to play in the promotion and advancement of the general health of our society as a whole. WCC is dedicated to providing a safe and healthful environment. 

In response to these considerations, the following regulations have been adopted:

  1.  Smoking is prohibited in all indoor locations, including academic areas (classrooms, lecture halls, seminar rooms, laboratories, the library, and computing facilities), public places (conference rooms, auditoriums, exhibition areas, indoor athletic facilities, cafeteria, and bookstore), common areas (lobbies, hallways, waiting areas, restrooms, stairwells, elevators and service areas) and all offices. 

  2. Smoking will be permitted in all outdoor areas surrounding campus buildings as long as these areas are properly maintained (e.g., cigarette butts to be placed in receptacles provided). However, smoking is prohibited in any outside area where there is a roof or overhang above you, unless that area is specifically designated as a smoking area.

  3. Cigarettes are not available for sale at any location on the campus.

STUDENT ID

Don’t leave home without your WCC ID! You may be asked to show your ID to an administrator or to security. You’ll need your ID to use the pool, take out library books, view videotapes, use campus computers, or to enter special events held at the College. 

The WCC Photo ID card can be used as a debit card for purchases in the Cafeteria and all of the Vending Machines on the Campus. There are three locations where money can be added to the card: Library, Main Floor; Science Building, Student Lounge; and the Student Center near the ATM machine on the First Floor. The machines accept $1, $5, $10, $20 and $50.  A 10% Bonus is added for using $10, $20 or $50. The maximum that can be put on your card at any one time is $75.

To get an ID, visit the Security Office, located in Room 113 in the Student Center. Just bring your paid tuition receipt and fill out a form. They’ll take your picture, so look nice! Your first ID is free. Each time you lose your ID a new one will cost you ten dollars. Call 914-606-6730 for more information. 

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VISITORS TO CAMPUS:

All campus visitors must register in the Security Office, Student Center, Room 113. Questions? Call 914-606-6730. 

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EMERGENCIES ON CAMPUS

All criminal incidents and emergencies should be reported to the Campus Security Office located in the Student Center Building, Room #113, in person, or by telephone. Our emergency phone number is 6-911. When necessary, the Fire Department, EMS or Westchester County Police will be informed of the incident. You may also use the Campus Blue Light Emergency Phones or dial 911 from any phone (9-911 from college phones) to report an emergency directly to the Westchester County Police Dispatch.  These phones should be used only for emergencies. 

Building Evacuations
A building evacuation, for fire or other reasons, is an event that may directly affect the life and/or safety of persons on our campus.  As such, building evacuations and building evacuation drills require the active participation and support of all college employees and should be carried out by each of you in a manner befitting a representative of Westchester Community College.  Evacuation drills are conducted at the beginning of each semester, both during the day and evening, and at the beginning of summer session.

In the event of a building evacuation, the Westchester Community College Security Department has primary responsibility to initiate and coordinate an appropriate response, including notification of emergency services and the college administration.  Security Officers will be dispatched to assist in effecting an orderly and efficient evacuation and will provide specific instructions to building evacuees as appropriate.  Additionally, there are Fire Marshals throughout the campus who have received specific training in how to assist in the event of a fire or evacuation.  Any responding Fire Marshals may be identified by the orange safety vest they will wear in the event of an emergency.  You must comply with instructions given by Security Officers and Fire Marshals.

Your primary responsibility in the event of a building evacuation is to immediately, safely and efficiently exit the building via the shortest safe route.  ALL evacuation alarms must be treated as real, even if there are multiple alarm activations within the same day.  Additionally, your adherence to the following simple guidelines is necessary to help ensure the safety of all building occupants during an evacuation:

  • If you see a fire, immediately pull the nearest fire pull station to initiate the fire evacuation alarm.

  • If you receive an unconfirmed report of fire or smell smoke, immediately call the WCC Emergency number at extension 6911 from any campus phone, or 606-6911 from an outside line.  Security will be dispatched to investigate the report.

  • Once an evacuation is initiated, make sure to immediately exit the room and proceed to the nearest safe building exit.

  • Close the door as the last person exits and proceed to the nearest building exit.

  • If you see an open door as you are exiting the building, close the door and continue to the nearest safe building exit.  Do not deviate from the shortest safe exit route to do this.

  • If you see any occupants in the building who do not appear to be evacuating, inform them there is an evacuation and that they must exit the building immediately.

  • If you are aware of occupants who you believe did not evacuate the building as required, notify the nearest Fire Warden, Security Officer or Emergency Services Person immediately upon exiting the building.  Inform them of how many persons and where they were last seen.

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Evacuation Instructions

In the event of a Fire Alarm or other evacuation:

  • Remain CALM

  • WALK, DO NOT RUN, to the nearest exit.

  • Go to the nearest exit, taking the shortest possible safe route.

  • NEVER USE ELEVATORS AS A FIRE EXIT

  • Once outside, remain at least 100 feet away from the building, more if directed.

  • DO NOT re-enter the building until "ALL CLEAR" is announced by the Fire Department.

  • If you are wheelchair-bound at ground level, or otherwise mobility-impaired, exit the building immediately.  If you are above or below ground level, ask someone to escort you to the nearest enclosed stairwell landing and close the door. The escort should identify someone who will tell firefighters the location of the stairwell in which you are located. Fire department professionals will then evacuate you if necessary.

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Fire Instructions

In case of fire, pull the nearest alarm. This will activate an audible and visual alarm within the building which rings directly at the Security Information Gatehouse and in WCC’s Department of Building and Grounds. The Security Officer on duty will call the local fire department, telling them the fire location and giving them other relevant information.

When a fire alarm sounds, evacuate the building immediately. Walk - do not run, do not use elevators. Close doors to classrooms and offices, leaving lights on, and exit from the nearest enclosed stairwell. Take your belongings with you. Do not try to fight the fire.

If you are wheelchair-bound at ground level, or otherwise mobility-impaired, exit the building immediately.  If you are above or below ground level, ask someone to escort you to the nearest enclosed stairwell landing and close the door. The escort should identify someone who will tell firefighters the location of the stairwell in which you are located. Fire department professionals will then evacuate you if necessary. 

Everyone who has exited the building should stay at least 100 feet away from building entrances until an "all clear" is announced by the fire department.

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Injuries and Other Medical Emergencies

Report all classroom accidents to the professor immediately. 

Report all injuries to Campus Health Services 914-606-6610, located in the Student Center Building, Room 112, staffed by registered professional nurses (R.N.'s). Hours: Monday-Thursday, 8:00 am-8:30 pm; Friday, 8:00 am-5:00 pm.

WCC has an emergency phone system which may be used when the Health Service is not open – after 8:30 pm Monday-Thursday, after 5:00 pm Friday, and on weekends. To reach Campus Security you may dial 6911 from any college phone or (914)606-6911 from any non-college phone.  To reach the Westchester County Police call 911.

If you should witness a medical emergency, call for assistance and then stay with the patient until professional help arrives. Do not move the victim or injured person unless there is immediate danger to yourself and/or the patient.

The Westchester Medical Center is the closest hospital, located one mile west of WCC on Grasslands Road. Its main switchboard is 914-493-7000; emergency room is 914-493-7307.

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Westchester Community College Crime Statistics

OFFENSE DEFINITIONS: The following definitions for murder, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, motor vehicle theft, weapons 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 edition of the Uniform Crime Reporting Handbook. 

Murder/Non-Negligent Manslaughter: The willful (non-negligent) killing of one human being by another. Deaths caused by negligence, suicide, accidental deaths, and justifiable homicides are excluded. 

Negligent Manslaughter: The killing of another person through gross negligence.

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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.

A.    Forcible Rape is the carnal knowledge of a person, forcibly and/or against the person’s will; or not forcibly 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.

B.    Forcible  Sodomy is 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.

C.    Sexual Assault With An Object is 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 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.

D.    Forcible Fondling is 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 in incapable of giving consent because of his/her youth or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental incapacity. 

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Sex Offenses-Non Forcible: Unlawful, non forcible sexual intercourse limited to Incest and Statutory Rape.

A.    Incest is the non forcible sexual intercourse between persons who are related to each other within the degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by law.

B.    Statutory Rape is the non forcible sexual intercourse with a person who is under the statutory age of consent. 

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 inflicting severe or aggravated bodily injury. This type of assault is usually 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. 

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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 larceny; house-breaking; safe-cracking; and all attempts to commit any of the aforementioned. 

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Motor Vehicle Theft: The theft or attempted theft of a motor vehicle. This includes cases where automobiles are taken by persons not having lawful access even though the vehicles are later abandoned, including joyriding. 

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Arson: The willful or malicious burning or attempt to burn with or without intent to defraud a dwelling house, public building, motor vehicle or aircraft, or personal property of another kind. 

Weapons 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: All attempts to commit any of the aforementioned. 

Liquor Law Violations: The violation of laws or ordinance prohibiting: The manufacture, sale, transportation, 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: All attempts to commit any of the aforementioned. (Drunkenness and driving under the influence are not included in this definition.) 

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Drug Abuse Violations: Violations of state and local laws relating to the unlawful possession, sale, use, 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 non narcotic drugs (Barbiturates, Benzedrine.)

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