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University Police Services
student to the President of the University. Many groups are involved in sexual assault prevention. These groups include the OSU Police Department, 1 is 2 Many, Department of Wellness, Student Conduct Education and Administration, and Title IX office. They provide training programs, presentations and workshops to any interested individuals or groups. Program topics generally include consent, victim services, bystander intervention, supporting others and available resources. Procedures to Follow A victim of sexual assault should follow certain procedures and consider several options. These procedures and options are clearly outlined at https://1is2many.okstate.edu or in 1 is 2 Many Sexual Violence resource booklets available around campus. Evidence Preserving evidence is of paramount importance after a sexual assault. Victims should be careful not to bathe, douche, wash clothing or tamper with other potential evidence after a sexual assault. The first inclination may be to do one or more of these; however, the temptation should be resisted. Evidence is critical in achieving a successful criminal prosecution and conviction. Contacting the Police Department When a sexual assault is reported to the OSU Police Department or to the Stillwater Police Department, an officer is dispatched. Determining the extent of physical and emotional trauma that the victim has suffered will be the officer's first concern. If the attack just occurred, the officer will want a brief review of the events, a description of the assailant, the direction of travel and a description of the vehicle used by the assailant, if any. This information is necessary in order to apprehend the assailant as soon as possible. After the initial interview, the officer or whoever is designated by the victim will assist in getting a complete change of clothes. Agreeing to have a Sexual Assault Examination An officer or designee will take the victim to the Stillwater Medical Center to be examined free of charge by a Sexual Assault Nurse. A complete physical examination will be given as well as treatment for any injuries. A friend or relative may be permitted to accompany the victim. In addition, the victim may be examined for the purpose of obtaining evidence that would be needed in court. Appropriate antibiotic therapy can be given to decrease the chances of developing venereal disease. After the examination at the hospital, the officer may bring the victim back to the police headquarters or another location to complete the interview. Again, a counselor is encouraged to be present. The victim of a rape is not responsible for legal expenses related to the criminal prosecution. The case is prosecuted by the Office of the District Attorney. The victim only has to contribute time. The Stillwater Medical Center can provide initial medical services for rape victims. The Crime Victims Compensation Board can provide payment for medical services and counseling, even if charges are not filed. The victim need only file an application with the Office of the District Attorney. Police Investigation Later, at police headquarters, the victim will be asked to be more specific about the events of the attack. A person of the victim's choosing may accompany the victim during this period. This questioning is done to help the investigation and to help arrange the events firmly in mind. The victim's comments will probably be tape recorded for future reference.
This will make testifying in court much easier and less frightening. It will be handled considerately and courteously. Only the investigating officer will ask questions. Based on conversations with the officer, the victim can then decide whether or not to assist with prosecution. Threats or harassment of a rape victim after charges have been filed are rare. When finished at police headquarters, the victim can go to a place of their choice. OSU and Stillwater Police officers have been trained to deal with sexual assault victims. However, if the victim should feel uncomfortable speaking to a male officer, every effort will be made to notify a female officer, female counselor, or female volunteer. A rape or sexual assault may be reported to a university employee. However, it is wise to give information to the police for a police investigation. Charges do not have to be filed against the attacker if a rape is reported. The information and suspect description may help locate a suspect in other offenses and possibly prevent another person from becoming a victim of a rape. The police will not know that there is a rapist on campus unless they are told. The police will not pressure the victim to file charges. Victims of sexual assault can elect to petition the court to have personal information redacted from police reports. Support Services OSU Sexual Assault Victim Advocates OSU's Victim Advocates can confidentially provide students with information about on and off campus resources available to victims. OSU Victim Advocates can be reached Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 405-564-2129. Student Conduct Education and Administration If the victim does not want the case to be addressed through the criminal justice system, another alternative is available. Incidents involving students who are accused of non-academic misconduct might be assigned to Student Conduct Education and Administration. Persons found responsible of sexual misconduct could be suspended or expelled from OSU. Further information can be obtained by contacting Student Conduct Education and Administration at 405-744-5470. A copy of the Student Code of Conduct can be obtained at https:// studentconduct.okstate.edu/code. A victim of a sexual misconduct may request assistance from Student Conduct including, but not limited to, a change in academic and/or living situations. More information about victim services can be found at https://1is2many.okstate.edu. Role of University Housing and Residential Life All hall staff, including Community Mentors, Assistant Residential Community Educators, and Residential Community Educators, continually attend sexual assault training programs, and they learn how to respond to a student who has been victimized by a sexual or physical attack. They
have been informed about the resources available. Role of University Counseling Services
University Counseling Services provides individual and group counseling services for those victimized by sexual or physical assault. Services are available to all Oklahoma State University students, regardless of gender, and their significant others. The psychological and emotional trauma after a sexual assault can be painful. Possible symptoms include: changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, lack of trust, guilt feelings, depression, mood swings, and relationship and communication problems. Sexual assault incidents can only be greatly reduced when men and women understand the dynamics
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