Safety & Security

Other Concerns about Sexual Misconduct

HOW LONG AFTER THE INCIDENT DO I HAVE TO FILE A COMPLAINT? IS THERE A STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS?

There is no “statute of limitations” in the campus disciplinary system. However, the Respondent must be currently enrolled at SU at the time of the disciplinary hearing.

WHAT IF I WAS ALSO VIOLATING AN SU POLICY AT THE SAME TIME THE SEXUAL MISCONDUCT HAPPENED – E.G., IF I WERE DRINKING UNDERAGE – COULD I STILL FILE A COMPLAINT FOR THE SEXUAL MISCONDUCT?

Often sexual misconduct involves alcohol or drugs. In most cases, campus administrators are going to focus on the sexual misconduct. If during the hearing, the Hearing Board became aware of any other violation(s) of University policy which may have occurred in connection with the circumstances surrounding the alleged misconduct, the Hearing Board may in its discretion at the conclusion of the hearing make a confidential referral of such other potential violation(s) to the Dean of Students (or designee) for possible future or other disciplinary proceedings.

WHAT IF I FEAR RETALIATION FROM MY ATTACKER, OR ONE OF HIS/HER FRIENDS?

One of the reasons you are encouraged to make a report to administrators is to safeguard your rights. The University does not tolerate any kind of retaliation, and if it occurs, it should be reported immediately to the Dean of Students (or designee) who will ensure the Respondent would face University disciplinary procedures.

WHAT IF I AM SEXUALLY VIOLATED BY AN SU STUDENT SOMEWHERE AWAY FROM CAMPUS (E.G., STUDY ABROAD, ON SPRING BREAK, ETC.)?

Any student participating in an officially sponsored campus activity is subject to the policies that govern student conduct.

WHAT IF I AM SEXUALLY VIOLATED BY A FACULTY OR STAFF MEMBER?

Sexual misconduct by an employee of the University may violate SU’s Sexual Harassment Policy, as well as criminal law. Your best course of action is to contact the University’s Title IX coordinator, Elma Benavides.

This page was updated on Oct 27, 2017.