A person who has been the victim of sexual assault should report the crime to the
University Police Department or a local police agency. The
Dean of Students Office, Student Health and Counseling Center, and the
Department of Residence Life may provide initial support services for students on the Anchorage campus. and campus-based counseling staff may serve as resources.
Staff will serve in an advocacy role and help refer individuals for appropriate medical, police, judicial, and counseling services. Sexual assault is a serious crime and victims frequently experience emotional trauma and medical consequences. Contacting resources enables victims to receive the professional help they may require. It does not commit the victim to further legal action.
Those who report a sexual assault will be advised of the importance of preserving evidence which may be necessary for prosecution. Preserving evidence does not obligate a victim to pursue legal action, but only preserves the strongest case in case a legal remedy is desired in the future.
Investigation and Disposition
When complaints of sexual assault are reported, they will be fully investigated. To the extent possible, the identity of the individuals involved will be kept confidential. Whether or not criminal charges are initiated, the victim's right to file a complaint through the student judicial process or employee grievance process remains.
Should the alleged sexual assault/misconduct of a student be subject to review through formal hearing procedures, the accused and accuser will be afforded the opportunity to present relevant information, be accompanied by a support person, and be apprised of the results of the disciplinary review. Upon request, as reasonably available, assistance will be provided in changing academic schedules and living arrangements.
In the event an accused person is found in violation of this policy, the entire range of sanctions outlined in the University Student Code of Conduct may be considered including, but not limited to, disciplinary probation, suspension, or expulsion from the University. Should the alleged sexual assault involve an employee, sanctions will be determined under applicable employment contracts and agreements.
