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2018-2019 CIU Student Handbook
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In addition to reporting to the Title IX Coordinator, CIU encourages victims of
Sexual Misconduct to report incidents of Sexual Misconduct to both CIU security
and to law enforcement authorities; however, CIU offers services to victims even if
they choose not to report an incident to law enforcement. The Student Life Office
provides services and information for victims in a safe and supportive setting.
In some circumstances, a victim may wish to seek an order of protection from a
court of appropriate jurisdiction against the alleged perpetrator. Victims may also
seek restriction of access to the University by non-students or non-employees in
certain circumstances.
The Jessica Horton Act (South Carolina Code of Laws 59-154-10), obligates CIU
to notify the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (“SLED”) when it receives
a report of criminal sexual assault on University property and also in the case of
death on campus.
Additionally, in certain other instances, CIU may need to report an incident to law
enforcement authorities. Such circumstances may include incidents that warrant
the undertaking of additional safety and security measures for the protection of
the victim and/or the campus community or other situations in which there is
clear and imminent danger and/or when a weapon may be involved. However, it
is crucial in these circumstances to consult with supervisory staff and/or Student
Life personnel, as reporting may compromise the safety of the victim.
CIU will assist alleged victims of Sexual Misconduct throughout the notification
process and will continue to provide support when any investigative action is
taken by law enforcement. If an alleged victim waives their right to contact local
law enforcement, they will be asked to sign a waiver of that right and to also
acknowledge the obligation CIU may have to report the incident to local law
enforcement.
Personal safety concerns are very important for victims and crisis intervention and
victim safety concerns will take precedence. CIU will also not tolerate any form of
retaliation toward a victim or a person reporting an incident.
Complainant’s Rights:
CIU community members who are alleged to be victims of Sexual Misconduct
have the right to the following:
•
Treatment with dignity and respect, without biased attitudes or
judgments;
•
Not having irrelevant past conduct discussed during any resulting
proceedings;
•
Changes in academic, professional and/or living situations, if possible
and necessary;
•
The right to name witnesses and present material evidence to the Title IX
Investigator that would assist in the investigation;
•
The right to obtain assistance from an advocate of their choice to aid
in the preparation of a statement to be given to the Title IX investigator
and to be present (in a non-speaking support role) during any meeting