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Assistance for Crime Victims or Witnesses

Assistance for Crime Victims or Witnesses

Crime of any type committed against or witnessed by someone can be traumatic. Only the victim or witness can understand how deeply a crime affects them.

We are fortunate that we have had very few serious crimes on the ��߲��о�� campus. However, even crimes such as thefts and annoying telephone calls can be disturbing for victims of these crimes.

If you have been the victim of or witness to a crime, please immediately contact Public Safety and Service 1-911. The sooner we are alerted to a crime, the more likely it is that the perpetrator can be apprehended and prosecuted and the safer our campus will be. You are not alone, you have rights, and we are here to help you.

Victim Assistance Program

The Victim Assistance program is victim-based. While some laws require officers to take legally-mandated action upon notification of certain crimes, the department prefers to allow a victim to make all decisions about how to proceed with a case.

On campus, officers will provide education about the crime encountered as well as crime prevention programming for campus groups. Officers will discuss with a victim rights s/he has for prosecution of a case. Officers often assist victims to the court and provide guidance for getting to know the court and the procedures.

The courts have a Victim Witness Assistance Program with whom the Department works when a case enters the court system. They provide support and education to victims and witnesses. They have SafePlan advocates who aide victims and witnesses of violent crimes in locating safe places or develop a plan to protect themselves, among many other services.

Victim's identities are strictly confidential. However, victims may allow Public Safety and Service Officers to release their name to specific campus administrators, Health Services staff or other agreed-upon resources so we can assist a victim in obtaining alternate housing, assistance with classes, etc., if the victim wishes to have such assistance.

Officers will work with a victim and with other victim resources to develop a safe plan when a victim or the officers feel there is a safety concern.

Victims have a number of options when a perpetrator of a crime is known:

Campus sanctions: if the person is another member of the community, a victim may opt to utilize campus sanctions to adjudicate the matter such as the Student Judicial Board, the Department of Human Resources, etc.
Criminal complaint: the college, or in some cases, the victim, may be able to request a criminal hearing, or an arrest may be made
Campus Trespass: if the victim is not a member of the community, a trespass notice may be appropriate to prevent the person from entering the campus.
Protective Order: while there are specific situations in which this may be appropriate, victims may opt to obtain a court restraining order against a perpetrator.

MHC resources

Counseling Services
Dean of Students - coordinates academic and residential assistance for campus victims
Health Services
Residential Life - coordinates with the Public Safety and Service and the Deans on providing housing alternatives for victims
Public Safety and Service Trespass Information

Other resources

at UMASS - provide information and referral services as well as rape crisis services 413-545-0800 or 888-337-0800 (TTY)
1−800−799−SAFE (7233) or 1-800-787-3224 (TTY)
- works to end abuse in lesbian, bisexual women's and transgender communities.
(Northampton) - provides services for women and their families who are affected by domestic violence

Information and resources related to specific crimes

Stalking

Stalking is any repeated, unwanted contact that communicates a direct or indirect threat and that causes the victim to fear for her/his safety and/or the safety of friends or family members. Stalking affects people of all identities, and can occur within any community.

Unwanted contact can include:

Following or surveillance
Unwanted or threatening gifts
Inappropriate approaches and confrontations
Damage to property
Appearing at a place of work or residence
Unwanted phone calls or letters
Physical assault
Cyberstalking
Unwanted e-mail or Instant Messages
Sexual Assault

You don't have to go it alone. If someone exhibits behavior as described above (even one type of listed contact can be disturbing), contact Public Safety by dialing x2304 or for emergencies from a campus phone dial 1-911. If you are off-campus, dial 911 to reach the local police department.

Keep a record of any written messages, recorded messages and any unwanted contact and show this to Public Safety or your local department.

If the behavior you are seeing is not listed above, but is of concern to you, call Public Safety or your local police department if off campus. Officers are trained to assist you with taking measures to make you feel safer, and can connect you with important safety resources in the community.

Domestic violence

Domestic Violence in Massachusetts is defined by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 209A as the occurrence of one or more of the following acts between family or household members:

• attempting to cause or causing physical harm;

• placing another in fear of imminent physical harm;

• causing another to engage involuntarily in sexual relations by force, threat, or duress.

There is never an excuse for violence.

Domestic violence is not caused by or provoked by the actions or inactions of the victim. Domestic violence is not directly caused by alcohol or drug abuse, depression, lack of money, lack of job, mental illness or abuse as a child. However, existing problems often create additional stress in a relationship and may increase the risk of violence. Many abusers blame the victim or other things for their violent acts and do not take responsibility for the abusive behavior. There is never an excuse for violence.

Your risk of harm

Statistically, the most dangerous time for a victim of domestic violence is when leaving the batterer. The abuser may feel he or she is losing control and become dangerously angry. Take steps to protect yourself from abuse or punishment from your abuser. Please trust your instincts. If you are afraid that something may happen, take your feelings seriously and protect yourself. Your know your situation better than anyone else.

"Family or Household Members" are persons who:

are or were married to one another; are or were residing together in the same household;
are or were related by blood or marriage;
have a child in common regardless of whether they have ever married or lived together;
or are or have been in a substantive dating or engagement relationship - this includes same sex relationships.

Come in and speak with a Public Safety and Service Officer about your needs. Consider before you arrive the answers to the following questions:

Does my abuser know where I am? Or, do others they know know where I am?
Have they threatened to find me here?
If it likely they will come here?
Have they presented a continued threat to me?

If you obtained a restraining order from any court, bring it with you to show the officer. Massachusetts has a reciprocal agreement with most states which allows an officer to make an arrest based on a violation of an out-of-state restraining order.

If you do not have a restraining order, officers can assist you in the court process to obtain one locally. We can act as a liaison with the Hampshire County Victim/Witness program and with the Hampshire County District Court.

Before An Incident

Take any threats seriously, especially if you have previous experience or knowledge that the other party has a history that includes the use of violence. If you are uncertain about your safety around your abuser, avoid contact and seek Public Safety and Service assistance. Alert friends to your concerns, and develop a plan to signal them if you are in danger. Ask them to call the Public Safety and Service if they have any concerns about responses you give them if you are in danger.

During An Incident

Alert others, if possible to your danger. If you are in a residence hall, make noise to alert neighbors. Try to get to safety and call the Public Safety and Service at 1-911 as soon as possible.

Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 209A require the following actions from law enforcement officers: Whenever any law officer has reason to believe that a family or household member has been abused or is in danger of being abused, such officer shall use all reasonable means to prevent further abuse. The officer shall take, but is not limited to the following action:

Remain on the scene where the abuse occurred or was (or is) in danger of occurring as long as the officer has reason to believe that at least one of the parties involved would be in immediate physical danger without the presence of a law officer for a reasonable period to prevent abuse;
assist the abused person in obtaining medical treatment necessitated by an assault, which may include driving the victim to the emergency room of the nearest hospital, or arranging for appropriate transportation to a health care facility, notwithstanding any law to the contrary. Students will be transported to the Health Center if it is open;
assist the abused person and dependent children in locating and getting to a safe place, including but not limited to a designated meeting place for a shelter or a family member's or friend's residence (or a similar place of safety).
give abuse victims immediate and adequate notice of their rights by handing them and reading a form detailing their rights.
assist the abused person to obtain an emergency restraining order by activating the Emergency Judicial Response System when the court is closed for business - Public Safety and Service Officers can call a judge to get an emergency order;
inform the victim that the abuser will be eligible for bail and may be promptly released.
arrest any person the officer witnesses or has probably cause to believe has violated a temporary or permanent vacate, restraining, or no contact-order or judgment.;
where there are no vacate, restraining, or no-contact orders or judgments in effect, arrest shall be preferred response, i.e., whenever an officer witnesses or has probably cause to believe that a person:
1. has committed a felony; or
2. has committed an assault and battery violation of G.L. c.265, s. 13A; or
3. has committed a misdemeanor involving abuse.

Public Safety and Service officers can arrest the person violating the order and on campus officers can, at your request, contact the student services staff on call for additional support.

Immediately After An Incident

Get somewhere safe and report your situation to Public Safety and Service immediately. Be sure to alert the Department if your attacker is still nearby and provide a description to officers.

Officers will assist you to obtain medical treatment for any injuries received. They will also assist you in finding a safe place to stay, if needed, whether that be a different location on campus, women's shelter, or other alternative.

Public Safety and Service Officers can make recommendations based on your situation that can assist to make you safe:

Emergency Restraining Orders
In circumstances when abuse has occurred and it may happen again without judicial intervention, officers can contact an on-call judge to obtain an emergency restraining order on the telephone 24 hours a day.
Restraining Orders
When a victim reports a past domestic violence situation and does not feel immediately in danger, victims can choose to seek a restraining order during the court business hours. Officers can escort victims to court to provide support and guidance with court officials as an experienced third party even though the police are not a direct agent in such a court order. An Abuse Prevention Order, called a "209A Order," or a "protective order," or "restraining order," is a civil order intended to provide protection from physical or sexual harm caused by force or threat of harm from a family or household member.
Harassment Prevention Orders
There may be circumstances when the relationship between the victim and offender may not meet the definitions of the abuse prevention orders, or when the actions of the offender do not reach the level of an abuse prevention order. A harassment prevention order may be an additional tool that may be available to victims. Public Safety and Service Officers can assist victims with this process.
Trespass Notice
When a victim does not feel that they wants a restraining order based on circumstances of their case, they may opt to request a trespass notice be issued. Officers will take information on your case and will be able to let you know if a trespass notice is appropriate. Standards for a campus trespass notice are less strict than those for a restraining order; if a restraining order is not issued by the courts, a trespass notice may still be possible.
Other options
The Department can act as a liaison to other departments on campus to assist in protecting you such as arranging for residential hall changes, mental health counseling, academic assistance, etc.

While a restraining order is a civil matter - in other words, initiated by a private citizen rather than by a police agency - Public Safety and Service can be an active link in the process. The Public Safety and Service Department has a strong commitment to survivors of domestic violence, whether such violence occurred on campus or elsewhere, to assist them in obtaining the help they need. Whenever possible, the department will assign an officer to escort you to the Hampshire County District Court and through the court process. Survivors may also opt to bring someone else with them to court for moral support.

A suggested first stop at court is the Victim/Witness Program office, who can help a victim through the process. An advocate will ask you about your case and help you make an informed plan for your safety. Our staff can stay with you for as long as you need us as staffing allows; our goal is to make you feel safe.

In court, you will appear before a clerk magistrate or judge and explain the circumstances of your case. Be sure to provide all of the details about the abuse, threats, and other information to assist the officer of the court in making a fully-informed decision.

Restraining orders can include restrictions on the abuser such as a stay-away order from the victim (sometimes with a distance restriction), a stay-away from the victim's residence and/or workplace, a stay-away from any children, an order to surrender any firearms to the police, and others. The victim's address can be impounded, when necessary for the protection of the victim.

Most of the time, the court will issue a temporary restraining order valid for a few days to a week. The court will also schedule a hearing on the day the order expires to determine if the order will be extended. The defendant will be notified of this hearing and will have an opportunity to appear before the court while you are there. The clerk-magistrate or judge will listen to both parties and determine whether an extension of the order will be issued. She or he will also determine which facets of the order will be in place. Generally, an extension is granted for one year, when another hearing will be scheduled.

According to Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 209A, Section 5A, "A law enforcement officer may presume the validity of, and enforce in accordance with section six, a copy of a protection order issued by another jurisdiction which has been provided to the law enforcement officer by any source; provided, however, that the officer is also provided with a statement by the person protected by the order that such order remains in effect. Law enforcement officers may rely on such statement by the person protected by such order."

It is recommended that a plaintiff on the restraining order who is in Massachusetts bring the out-of-state order to the Superior Court and sign an affidavit with them that it is still in effect as stated on the order. The courts will then enter it into the Massachusetts domestic violence record keeping system.

If you are on campus and have a restraining order from another state, please stop by our office and we can assist you in assuring that it will be acted upon. If you let our department know about an order and provide the required documentation, we can eliminate red tape if an incident were to occur.

If the abuser violates the order, call the police immediately (on-campus emergencies contact Public Safety and Service at extension 800) . Show the Order to the police and explain how it was violated (a punch, slap, threat; entering your house or apartment or refusing to vacate; or, any contact with you at home or your workplace, either in person, by telephone or mail). The police must arrest the abuser if they believe or can see that the terms of the Order were violated. If you do not call the police, you may be able to file an application for a criminal complaint on your own at the Clerk's Office in the District Court. A Victim/Witness Advocate can assist you with that process.

If you put yourself in contact with the abuser, they is vulnerable to arrest. Therefore, if you want any terms of the order to no longer apply, you should return to court and ask that the order be modified or vacated.

If the abuser is arrested, you should seek assistance from the Victim/Witness Advocate in the District Attorney's Office the next morning after a nighttime arrest, or at any time during the day at the courthouse. A Victim/Witness Advocate will explain what the charges mean and what will happen next. The Advocate will also offer ongoing information, referral for services and case updates throughout the time the case is in court.

Once a criminal complaint has been issued or an arrest made, the abuser will be charged with the crime or crimes at the arraignment proceeding in the District Court. A bail hearing will be held to determine whether the defendant/abuser will be released or held in jail until trial. If the defendant/abuser is released from custody, the court must make a reasonable effort to notify you of the release, even if you are not present in court.

What happens at the arraignment?

It is important to provide information to the Assistant District Attorney before the arraignment and bail hearing regarding the history of the abuse and a description of the most recent abuse, including any pictures or hospital records of injuries. You should also mention the location of any guns or other weapons that you believe the abuser has in his or her possession.

The ADA will bring this information to the attention of the judge, along with your safety concerns and fears at this time. The judge may also consider whether the defendant/abuser is dangerous and a threat to you or the community. The information will help the judge decide if the defendant/abuser is to be released, what the amount of bail and conditions of release will be.

What happens after the arraignment?

Interviews will be held with you before the trial, to gather information and evidence for prosecution. Every effort will be made to consider your needs and safety in going forward with the case. The safety of your children will also be a priority.

Prosecution may provide the means to gain the batterer's intervention services for the defendant/abuser as part of a sentencing recommendation. Very few batterer's seek or stay with these services on their own, without court orders and probation supervision. An ADA will speak with you about different sentences that can be imposed if the defendant/abuser is found guilty by a judge or pleads guilty. The sentence asked for may include drug or alcohol counseling, required attendance at a batterer's intervention program, supervised probation and/or jail time.

Certified batterer's intervention programs provide services in very strict group settings to try to help the batterer's learn to accept responsibility for their violence, as well as understand and change their controlling and abusive behavior

The groups are led by certified batterer's intervention counselors trained in dealing with domestic violence offenders. The programs work with the courts and victim services to help make sure that partners of batterer's remain safe. The programs may involve weekly sessions of 1 to 2 hours in length. The batterer must participate in the program for a minimum of 80 hours. Group leaders feel your safety is a priority concern and will keep ongoing contact with you.

Will the intervention stop the abuse?

There is no guarantees that the violence will stop because the abuser attends a certified batterer's intervention program. Many abusers drop out of programs or do not comply with the requirements, or only reduce their abuse temporarily. If the judge requires attendance as part of a sentence, dropping out may mean the defendant/abuser may have to serve jail time. The abuser must want to change the abusive behavior and work hard at making those changes. Promises to change, flowers and apologies are not enough. You deserve to be safe and free from abuse.

Campus resources

Public Safety and Service
Residential Life/Residence Life staff
Dean of the Students
Health Services

Information about Campus Trespass Notices

Local resources

Victim's Advocates 586-5780
District Attorney's Office 586-1628
Necessities/Necessidades 586-5066

Online resources

Sexual assault and rape

It is illegal for anyone to force you into any sexual act without your consent.

In Massachusetts, sexual assault is defined as any crime in which the offender subjects the victim to sexual touching that is unwanted and offensive.

In Massachusetts, rape is defined as having sexual intercourse or unnatural sexual intercourse with a person, by compelling such a person to submit by force against her or his will, or compelling such a person to submit by threat of bodily injury. In this state, rape is considered a felony and is punishable by imprisonment.

In addition, in Massachusetts it is illegal to have sex with someone who is incapable of giving consent because:

• They are intoxicated.

• They are unconscious.

• They are mentally incompetent.

• They are under age.

Myth: Rape is an expression of sexual desire.
Reality: Rape is a crime of violence that uses sex to take power and control from the survivor.
Myth: Rape is usually committed by strangers.
Reality: In over 50% of reported rapes the victim knew their attacker well. Mary Koss found in her survey of college students in 1986 that 84% of women raped knew their attacker. Rape occurs everywhere, during the day and night, by people we know and total strangers.
Myth: Men are never victims of sexual assault.
Reality: 7% of rape victims are male (Massachusetts Department of Public Safety). However, the prevalence of crimes against men is surely under-reported, particularly because most men who have been raped are victims of childhood rapes. The additional stigma of being a male victim can make recovery that much more difficult.
Myth: Women who drink are asking to be raped.
Reality: No one asks to be raped. Rape victims transcend the boundaries of race, class, age, and appearance. There is no set formula; it can happen to anyone. Alcohol does play a role in the prevalence of sexual assault: 75% of male perpetrators and 55% of female victims in the Koss survey said they were drinking at the time of the attack. The intoxication of either party is never an excuse to force someone to have sex. If the victim is intoxicated they may not be capable of giving consent. On the other hand, the alleged perpetrator is responsible for their behavior regardless of intoxication.

1. Get to a safe place

Once you are safe, call Public Safety and Service (24 hours) at the numbers to the right, or Health Services. Off campus, call the local police at 911.

At Hampshire, you may contact the Sex Offenses Services (SOS) Coordinator.

2. Tell someone

You may feel ashamed or embarrassed, like no one will believe you or that you are in some way to blame for the attack. The most important thing to remember is that whatever happens no one should be forced to have sex against their will. Telling someone will give you an outlet to express your emotions. Feeling overwhelmed is a natural response and contacting someone who can help will assist you sorting out what resources are available and what, if anything, you want to do.

Confidential resources that can be accessed at the time of the assault:

Health Services for medical assistance and counseling (during business hours)
Local sexual assault hotline: 413-545-0800 (888-337-0800 TTY)
Center for Women and Community at the University of Massachusetts (formerly Everywoman's Center)

Other important resources include:

Dean on Call (available 24/7 while college is in session through Public Safety and Service)
Public Safety and Service
Residence Hall Staff

3. Get medical attention

Medical care after a rape can detect injuries and test for Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs). In addition, a health care provider can collect evidence that could be used should you ever decide to take legal or disciplinary action. Although the Health Services has trained staff, survivors* will be sent to Cooley Dickinson Hospital for the medical follow-up after the initial assessment. When appropriate, blood and urine samples to test for the drugs Rohypnol and GHB may be collected at the Health Center. Emergency contraceptives can also be dispensed.

** While physical evidence may be collected during treatment, all prosecution decisions remain solely the decision of the survivor. Evidence collected does not have to be used in a case; however, failure to obtain the evidence may make prosecution more difficult.

Note: Both the terms "victim" and "survivor" appear in this booklet. "Victim" is used to refer to the individual at the moment of the crime, or shortly thereafter. "Survivor" is used as a less stigmatizing, more empowering way to identify the individual no longer powerless in that moment.

4. Take care of yourself

Rape is a traumatic experience and there is no set formula for recovery. Seek counseling to support and guide you through the healing process.

5. Report it

Only about 1 of 10 rapes are ever reported. There are many reasons why this number is so low. Survivors may…

Feel ashamed
Think that the pain will go away
Not be sure if what happened was really rape
Believe they are responsible in some way

The decision to report is totally up to you. For many survivors having their number counted, at least, is an important step in regaining the power they lost. You can discuss your situation with any of the resources listed in this booklet before you make a decision. There are many options to explore; the most important thing is to choose the path that is most comfortable and productive towards your recovery.

If you are assaulted, your goal is survival. Your best weapon is your ability to think clearly and put your welfare first. Whatever you do to escape is okay: scream, bite, punch, kick, grading your keys into the assailant's body. There are as many responses as situations. Here are some possibilities:

Use your voice. Talking can effectively diffuse some assaults. Speak calmly, not crying, pleading, or moralizing. Try to maintain eye contact. If help is within hearing distance, you may try screaming "Fire!" or "Help!" instead of "Rape!" since the former are more recognizable distress calls.
Stalling is an intermediate approach to give you time to recover from initial shock and to assess your situation. Do the unexpected convincingly. Stalling can take many forms: pretending to cooperate, going limp and sinking to the ground, or faking sickness.
Running away is an option if you are sure you can make it to a safe place.
Physical resistance must be quick, hard, and vicious in order to be effective. This option is not for everyone; many people cannot use physical resistance. Remember, the goal is to survive the assault. Resistance should be geared to allow escape. If you think your natural reaction would be to fight, then make sure you know how to do so effectively. The Public Safety and Service Department regularly offers self-defense classes. The Office of Residential Life and the Office of the Dean of the College can also assist with crime prevention programs.
Defend yourself. Weapons can take the form of many items: combs, keys, nail file, hair spray, books, pens, pencils, umbrellas. You can also use your body, voice, teeth, knees, hands, fingers, thumbs, feet, and legs to defend yourself. Direct your defense to vulnerable locations such as the eyes, throat, knees, top of the foot, and groin. Remember, though, any weapon could be taken away from you and used against you.

If you report an attack, before Public Safety and Service officers arrive, go to a safe place like a neighbor's room, but try to preserve the physical evidence. If the attack occurs outside, use the Blue Light phones to call for help.

Do not change your clothing. If you must change, place your old clothes in a paper bag.
Pack a change of clothes to bring to the Health Center or the hospital.
Note: Health Services will refer survivors to the Cooley Dickinson Hospital for the evidence collection examination. Public Safety and Service officers can assist you in getting to and from the hospital and can accompany you during any part of the process you wish.
Do not wash or clean your clothing.
Do not take a shower, bathe, or clean up.
Do not apply medication or cosmetics.

Students may be able to change their academic and living situations after a sexual assault if needed. Requests for these changes are coordinated through the Dean of Students/Student Services office, and Public Safety and Service are available as liaison. Someone from the Dean of Students/Student Services office is available twenty-four hours a day to respond to a crisis when school is in session. The dean's office representative will help a victim who needs academic or residence hall assistance by working with the Director of Residential Life.

The Public Safety and Service Department works in cooperation with Health Services. Rape awareness information is included as part of first-year orientation.

There are a number of resources available to students both on and off campus. These services may be used in any combination and it is important to recognize that actions taken on and off campus are not mutually exclusive. The most important thing is to find the resources that will provide the best support and direction towards recovery.

Center for Women and Community

This organization runs a state certified rape crisis center with a 24 hour hotline for survivors of sexual assault. Located on the UMass campus, the Center trains Counselor/Advocates (CAs) who are on call to talk to survivors. A CA can assist the survivor while getting medical attention and/or reporting the crime to law enforcement agencies. In addition, a CA will be able to support the survivor and make them aware of the many options available. Finally, a CA will aid in the notification of the appropriate parties and can be an advocate and supporter during legal action. The Center also provides educational programs and materials to the entire community. All phone calls are anonymous and confidential. They can be reached through a 24 hr hotline 413-545-0800 (888-337-0800 TTY).

Public Safety and Service

Department	Contact Information
Emergency (Off Campus)	911
Mount Holyoke Public Safety and Service	413-538-2304 (24 hrs)
South Hadley Police Department	413-538-8231

Health resources

Office	Contact Information
Mount Holyoke Health Center	413-538-2242
Mount Holyoke Counseling Center	413-538-2037
Mount Holyoke Title IX Coordinator	413-538-3642
Mount Holyoke Ombuds Person	413-538-2413
Mount Holyoke Office of the Chaplains	413-538-2054
Center for Women and Community, Amherst All phone calls are anonymous and confidential.	24 hr hotline 413-545-0800 or 888-337-0800 (TTY)
Cooley Dickinson Hospital	413-582-2000 (24 hrs)
, Amherst (formerly AEIOU)	413-582-4400; Mon–Fri: 8 am–8 pm; Sat–Sun: 9 am–5 pm
Northampton (formerly On Call Urgent Care)	413-582-4400; 9 am–5 pm daily
UMass Amherst	413-584-7425

Legal and other resources

Office	Contact Information
Mount Holyoke Residential Life	413-538-2088
Mount Holyoke Office of Dean of College	413-538-2550
Mount Holyoke Director of Human Resources	413-538-2503
Northwestern District Attorney Victim/Witness Program	413-586-5780
	617-248-0922
	617-727-5200

If a friend who has been sexually assaulted asks for your help, you can support them by providing what comfort you can and seeing that they receive the necessary medical aid. You can also ensure that they take the appropriate steps for reporting the incident to the police. It is important that you accompany your friend to the police, staying with them until all necessary procedures have been completed.

Here are some suggestions of ways you can help a friend who has been raped:

Be supportive. Let them know that you care about them, that you believe them, and that they are not alone.
Encourage them to express their feelings about what has happened to them.
Be interested and empathic without prying or pressing for details.
Try not to criticize or judge.
Respect their decisions about what they wants: who to tell, whether or not to report to the police, what makes them feel safe, etc.
Encourage your friend to seek medical attention at the ��߲��о�� Health Center or a hospital, if the rape occurred recently. A medical examination can detect and prevent injuries, STDs, and pregnancy and maybe able to detect memory-altering drugs.
If you are a different gender, be aware that your friends reaction to you may be complicated; they may want affection, or they may have generalized fears.
Try not to express or project your own feelings of anger or helplessness to them. Talk about these feelings with another friend or professional counselor.

Hearing about a sexual assault is an upsetting experience. You may want to talk to a trusted friend or counselor about your own feelings.

If a student comes to you voluntarily, you know that they trust you; it is important to remain a supportive reassurance as they make decisions about what to do. Studies show that a survivor of sexual assault is significantly affected throughout their recovery by the actions of and attitudes of the people in their support system. Your openness, willingness to listen, and nonjudgmental support may be a key factor in their progress from victim to survivor.
You may wonder if what happened was "really rape". You may ask yourself why the student did not scream, run, or fight back. These concerns properly belong to the courts and to psychological counselors. Your job is to listen, to make referrals, and to offer support.
Take special care to help the student obtain the assistance of legal, counseling and college resources. Follow up with them to see how they are doing.
You must also be aware that if a student's life is in danger or if a student poses serious risk of harm to others, you may not be able to maintain confidentiality. As an employee of the College, you have an obligation to report your concern that someone's life may be threatened to other college officials.

��߲��о�� uses an anonymous sexual assault recording form to gather accurate information on the incident of these crimes on this campus. Requiring a minimal amount of general information, the form in no way identifies the survivor.

Students may report to members of the following departments:

Title IX Coordinator
Counseling Center
Dean of Students
Dean of the Faculty
Health Center
Office of Religious Life
Ombuds Office
Public Safety and Service
Residential Life

Team Approach:

��߲��о�� uses a team approach in responding and supporting survivors of sexual assault. Typically the team will consist of a Public Safety and Service sexual assault investigator, a counselor from the Health Center or Everywoman's Center, and the Dean on Call. Team members will only be called with permission of the victim.

Confidentiality:

By Massachusetts General Law, the police and court records that contain the name of the victim in a case of rape or assault with intent to rape must be withheld from public inspection. Except as permitted by a judge, it is unlawful to publish or disclose rape victim's names.

Public Safety and Service will not release your name to other College officials without your permission. Public Safety and Service is required by federal law to notify the members of the community of any events or incidents that place people at risk; and will do so while maintaining the confidentiality of your identity.

In conducting a thorough investigation of a rape or an assault, Public Safety and Service will assign an officer who has received specialized training in investigating sexual assaults. During the investigation, the officer will ask you many questions and go over the details of the crime. This is necessary because a person frequently recalls additional information and details during subsequent interviews. This procedure is not intended to embarrass or intimidate you.

Public Safety and Service, the Dean's Office, and the Health Center staff collaborate to assist victims. However, because of confidentiality constraints on victim information, each organization needs permission to exchange information. Departments will not release information without the survivor's permission.

Procedures

What are the Procedures in Dealing with Rape?

If you decide to call the Public Safety and Service Department:

A uniformed officer will arrive and insure your safety. The officer will encourage you to go and escort you to the Health Center or other medical facility for treatment, based on the nature of your injuries and get a description of the assailant(s) for possible apprehension.
You will receive medical attention and a medical report will be made for use should you decide to press charges.
The Public Safety and Service Officer will call in one of the department's sexual assault investigators who will interview you about the details of the rape. A Public Safety and Service officer will suggest that a counselor be present along with medical staff to reduce the number of times a survivor retells the incident. Other options such as notification of the Dean on call will also be discussed.

If you decide to report a rape to Public Safety and Service, it does not mean that you must go to court and prosecute. Decisions about prosecution are made later. Filing a report preserves evidence and documents the incident to protect your rights.

The Public Safety and Service Approach to Sexual Assaults

��߲��о�� complies with the Federal Higher Education Amendments of 1992 (Public Law 102-325), which contain provisions requiring colleges to develop and disseminate sexual assault policies. Therefore it is crucial that crimes of sexual assault are reported so that the offenders can be apprehended and kept from repeating their actions.

The Public Safety and Service Department in recent years has provided specialized training for its officers to handle and investigate such offenses. Public Safety and Service officers will assist victims of rape and sexual assault by obtaining medical attention for any injuries, fully investigating the incident, providing liaison with the South Hadley Police Department and the Hampshire County District Attorney's office, and advising victims of their rights to counseling and other services offered by the College and the community. Survivors are involved in all decisions about proceeding with criminal charges. The victim's name in all reports of sexual assaults is kept confidential, by Massachusetts law, and will not be released without her or his permission.

All College officials, including deans, directors, and head residents, will notify Public Safety and Service if they receive a report of a sexual assault. These reports do not reveal the survivors’ names without permission. However, the College must comply with federal law in providing statistical information for the community. Public Safety and Service has been designated to receive all statistical reports of sexual assault and to report those centralized statistics to the community.

Although pastoral and professional counselors are exempt from reporting campus crimes, the college encourages them, if appropriate, to inform persons they are counseling of the process of reporting on a voluntary, confidential basis for inclusion in the annual statistic or for a criminal investigation.

Confidential, sensitive care, examination, and treatment are available twenty-four hours a day at the Health Center, hospital, or other medical facilities. An important part of the criminal investigation is the collection of physical evidence. Victims should go to the Health Center as soon as possible after the incident (without showering, douching, or changing first, although they should bring a change of clothes if possible). The Health Center is available for initial assessment. Survivors are sent to Cooley Dickinson Hospital for the complete evidentiary examination and treatment. The evidence will be used only if the victim chooses to prosecute. The Public Safety and Service are always available for campus transport of sexual assault or rape victims.

Civil/Criminal Complaints

If a student is the victim of a crime on campus, they will be given information about off-campus resources and procedures for filing a civil/criminal complaint. Students are strongly encouraged to consider and investigate this option.

The Victim/Witness Assistance unit of the Northwestern District Attorney's office provides information and guidance to victims throughout the investigation and complaint process. Members of this department will provide information about the court process, victim's rights, restraining orders and social service referrals. The Victim/Witness office will also facilitate consultation with an attorney to discuss the viability of a case. In cases in which a student is considering pursuing both disciplinary and criminal complaints, the District Attorney's Office normally advises that the student pursue the complaint through the criminal justice system first, since college disciplinary records can be subpoenaed, and could affect the outcome of a criminal case.

What are College Judicial Procedures for Sexual Assault?

Sexual assaults allegedly committed by a Mount Holyoke student can be reported and adjudicated by the College student judicial system. However, in cases of a concurrent criminal prosecution, the College defers to the criminal case. During a College on-campus disciplinary case, the accuser and the accused are entitled to the same opportunities to have others present during the disciplinary hearing. Both parties are informed of the outcome of any disciplinary proceeding. Sanctions arising out of a campus disciplinary proceeding alleging a rape (including acquaintance rape) or other sex offense (forcible or nonforcible) include but are not limited to suspension or expulsion from the College.

Sexual assaults allegedly committed by a Mount Holyoke employee can be reviewed under the College's Human Resources disciplinary policies. However, in cases of a concurrent criminal prosecution, the college reserves the option to initiate a separate disciplinary investigation. Although the criminal case will lead to a conclusion, disciplinary action may be taken to protect the college community regardless of that outcome. Sanctions arising out of an employee disciplinary proceeding alleging a rape (including acquaintance rape) or other sex offense (forcible or nonforcible) include but are not limited to termination of employment.

What are some of the Considerations?

In cases of assault there are numerous options for a survivor to explore if they decide to take disciplinary action. There are resources on campus and in the Amherst/Northampton area to assist victims.

It is important for survivors to investigate their alternatives carefully. When deciding which path to follow it is important to keep a few things in mind:

What outcome is desired? What do you as a victim of a crime want to see happen next? While it is important to recognize the difficulty of presenting and proving these cases, it is also imperative that you examine all your options and rights.
Action on campus does not exclude action off campus as well.
Many victims become frustrated because everyone is telling them what to do or, conversely, everyone seems unwilling to give an opinion. Only you can decide what to do. Taking action against your perpetrator is a step that takes a great deal of courage, and although the decision to proceed has to be made by you, this does not mean that you have to go through the decision-making process alone.

What might you expect to experience after a rape or sexual assault?

If you have been raped or sexually assaulted you are likely to experience an initial crisis period which may include some or many of the following reactions: emotional shock, denial, numbness, nightmares, sleeplessness, flashbacks, changes in appetite, difficulty working and concentrating, and feelings of guilt, despair, depression, self-blame, or anger. This is followed by a long period of recovery, during which you may seem to recover completely but then sometimes re-experience the traumatizing effects of the assault.

What are effective ways of approaching rape recovery?

You may feel that you want to put the rape behind you and get on with your life. You will probably find, however, that working through and talking about your Feelings will be most effective in the long run. There are many ways of working through the trauma of a sexual assault: some women see counselors regularly or attend support groups, other rely on family and friends, still others take self-defense classes like "Rape Aggression Defense (R.A.D.)" to help reduce their feelings of helplessness and vulnerability. Sometimes students find that bringing criminal charges and/or college disciplinary actions against their assailants helps to restore their sense of personal integrity and power.

Most important is that you not isolate yourself and that you make a positive choice to spend time with people who believe and support you. You may find that parents, friends, and partners have complicated feelings about what has happened to you. If someone reacts in a way that hurts you, get away from that person. Spend time with people who can assist you without trying to control you, who believe in you, and who can help you sort out what you need to do to take care of yourself.

One step to creating a safer environment is for everyone to clearly and openly communicate about what they want and do not want sexually. Clear and open communication is crucial in any sexual situation.

Examine your needs and desires before you get into a sexual situation.
Clearly tell your partner what you want. If there are limits that you want to maintain, state what they are and stick to them.
Clearly ask your partner what they wants.
Listen to each other.
Be aware of non-verbal cues, but do not rely on them. If you are not sure, ask.
Challenge the myths and stereotypes. Challenge your friends who minimize rape or don't understand it, who accept definitions of sex and gender roles that include forcing someone to have sex or getting them too drunk to say "no". Talk with friends and give one another the opportunity to be assertive, respectful, honest and caring.
Think about your sexual desires and limits and how you respond to social pressures. How do alcohol and/or drugs affect your sexual-decision making? How do you learn someone else's desires and limits? How do you express your own? Knowing these things before going on a date can help prevent any misunderstandings later.
Communicate clearly and be assertive. Saying "yes" or "no" may be difficult, but it is important. Passive or polite approaches can be misunderstood or ignored. Be direct and firm with someone who is pressuring you. Tell your partner what you want — or don't want — and stick with your decision.
If you feel uncomfortable during a conversation, perhaps as a result of hearing dirty jokes or derogatory remarks, stop the conversation. If you feel uncomfortable because of unwanted physical contact, such as rubbing your back or stroking your hair without your permission complain and stop it.
If you are uncertain about what you want, stop and talk about it. It is okay to be unsure, and perhaps it means you want to wait. Remember that saying "no" now does not mean that you will never want to have sex with this person and saying "yes" doesn't mean you can't change your mind.
Trust your instincts. Even if you can't explain why you feel a certain way, you have the right to trust your feelings and have them respected.
Listen carefully to what the other person is saying and pay attention to what is happening around you. Are you getting mixed messages? If so, stop. Explain why you are confused. Do you understand the other person? If not, ask rather than assume. Talk together about what would be most enjoyable for each of you. Always watch for nonverbal clues.
Remember that effective and assertive communication may not always work. Sometimes people just don't listen. However, no one ever deserves to be raped!

*Adopted in part from "Acquaintance Rape", a publication of the American College Health Association.

Safety

Avoid secluded places.
Tell someone where you are going and have a way to get home.
Know your limits and observe them. Alcohol and drugs impair everyone's perception and judgment.
Watch your drink carefully; do not leave your drink unattended or accept one from someone you do not know well or trust.
Trust your instincts. If you feel something is wrong, do not ignore your feelings.
Assert yourself. If you do not like something that your partner is doing, tell them clearly and firmly to stop.
Use a buddy system when you go to parties. Before you go to the party, agree with your friends when you are going to leave, or under what circumstances you will leave each other.
Agree upon signals to give your friends that will indicate needing and "escape" or a way out if a situation becomes uncomfortable. Don't be afraid to intervene if you think your friend is in a bad situation.

Developing Safe Habits

Around Campus:

Learn the locations of the blue-light phones and access phones on campus. Blue-light phones are directly connected to Public Safety & Service.
Walk with others after dark. Avoid shortcuts and wooded areas; stay on lighted walkways. Vary your route.
Let your friends know the route you are taking and when to expect you. Call ahead.
Notice cars that pull beside you or pass you more than once.
Pay attention to footsteps and voices.
If you are followed, stay in a lighted area and seek safety in a public building where there are other people. If you are on campus, find a phone.

At Home or in Residence Halls:

Have you keys or One Card in your hand well before you get to your destination. If you feel you are being watched, get help. Go to a neighbor's door, a blue-light phone, an access phone, or the Public Safety and Service office.
Close and lock the door immediately when entering a residence hall. Always keep room doors locked, especially when you are sleeping, and do not prop open outside doors.
Be sensible with your keys and access card – don't leave them in an outside hiding place. Report all lost or stolen College keys and access cards as soon as possible.
Be careful about letting acquaintances sleep in your room or home.
Vouch for visitors to a residence hall only if you know them. Report unauthorized persons or suspicious behavior to the head resident, hall staff, or the Public Safety and Service Department immediately.
Know who is at the door before opening it. Ask for identification from anyone you don't know or feel uncomfortable about. If a stranger requests to use your telephone to call for help, offer to place the call for him or her rather than to invite the stranger into your home or room. If you live alone off campus, or with other women, use only your first initials on your mailbox and in telephone directories.
Use caution over the phone. Never reveal your phone number or name to a wrong number caller. Don't reveal to a caller that you are alone. Be wary of telephone surveys, especially ones that ask for personal information. If you don't know who the person is, hang up. Warn roommates not to give out personal information over the phone.
Be alert in Laundromats and laundry rooms. Try not to go alone.
Report burned-out lights and broken locks, doors, and windows to Facilities Management immediately.
Know which neighbors you could call in an emergency.
Take safety and security regulations seriously.

In Transit

Have your keys ready in your hand as you approach the car.
Have your doors locked at all times, and your windows up when possible.
Check your back seat before you get into your car.
Park in a well-lit area.
Don't go to your car alone at night if you can avoid it.
Always make sure you have enough gas, and your car is in good repair, before you leave.
Never pick up hitchhikers.
Consider carrying a cellular phone.
If you suspect you are being followed, drive into a busy, well-lit establishment and call a law enforcement agency or dial 911. If you know the location of the local police department, drive there and ask for help.
Signal for help by raising the hood of your car, if you have car trouble. Remain in your car with the doors locked until help arrives. Make sure the assistance is legitimate. If another motorist offers help, stay in your car and ask the motorist to call the police or auto club.
Don't stop if you see a disabled vehicle on the highway, but report it and send help for the driver.

Contact us

Department of Public Safety and Service

The Department of Public Safety and Service is committed to actively supporting, protecting and engaging with the community through mutual aid, harm reduction, conflict resolution and other best practices of safety and security.

413-538-2304
1 Everett Rd.

Margaret Brown

Administrative Services and Accreditation Coordinator

413-538-2304

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