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Public Safety
MASSACHUSETTS COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS ANNUAL CLERY REPORT POLICY FOR REPORTING THE ANNUAL DISCLOSURE OF CRIME STATISTICSThe Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts is required by federal law to produce an annual report of its safety and security procedures, as well as statistics related to criminal offenses reported to the police and college officials. The MCLA Department of Public Safety - Campus Police prepares this report to comply with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act. The full text of this report can be located on the departments web site located here or copies are available in the departments offices located on the first floor of the Amsler Campus Center. This report is prepared in cooperation with the North Adams Police Department, Massachusetts State Police, Residential Programs and Services and Judicial Affairs staff located in the Student Affairs Division. Each entity provides updated information on their educational efforts and programs to comply with the Clery Act.Campus crime, arrest, and referral statistics include those reported to the MCLA Department of Public Safety - Campus Police, designated campus officials, and local law enforcement agencies noted above. Massachusetts General Law Chapter 112, Section 12A.5 does require mandatory reporting of rape or sexual assault victims treated by physicians to local law enforcement agencies. MCLA Health Services and Counseling Services provide information to their clients regarding the voluntary reporting of any crimes to the Department of Public Safety - Campus Police and encourage them to make such reports. VOLUNTARY AND CONFIDENTIAL REPORTING OF CRIMEMCLA and its Department of Public Safety - Campus Police encourages anyone who is the victim or witness to a crime to promptly report the incident to the Campus Police or a designated college official. If you are the victim of a crime and do not want to pursue action within the college judicial system or the criminal justice system, you may still want to consider making a confidential report. With your permission, the Director of Public Safety or designee can file a report on the details of the incident without revealing your identity. The purpose of a confidential report is to comply with your wish to keep the matter confidential, while taking the steps to ensure your safety and the campus community safety is maintained. With such information, MCLA can keep accurate records of the number of incidents involving students, determine if there is a characteristics for a particular pattern of crime to a specific location, method or assailant, and most importantly, alert the campus if need be, to potential safety threats. Reports filed in this manner are counted and disclosed in the annual crime statistics for the institution. CAMPUS SAFETYAt Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA), we take every possible step to ensure the safety and security of all our students. Crime is a national problem and from time to time it even affects rural communities, such as the one in which MCLA is located. Fortunately, MCLA has not experienced a significant number of serious crimes, such as murder, aggravated assault, sexual assault, robberies, burglaries, motor vehicle theft and other acts involving serious bodily harm. To prevent such incidents from occurring, a professionally trained Campus Police force, skilled Residence Life staff, and a responsible and informed student body collaborate to enforce our safety and security procedures. REPORTING A CRIME OR EMERGENCY ON CAMPUSCriminal acts, crimes in progress or other emergencies on campus should be reported directly by any student, faculty member, or staff member to the Department of Public Safety -Campus Police by dialing the MCLA Campus Emergency Line at extension 5100 or by dialing 911 to notify local emergency services responders. Upon receipt of the call, Campus Police Officers are immediately dispatched to the site of the complaint or incident to take appropriate action and make arrests if necessary. Officers prepare and submit incident reports to the Department of Public Safety - Campus Police, the Dean of Students Office, Residential Programs and Services (RPS) and, when necessary, to local and state police agencies.Criminal complaints are filed with the Northern Berkshire District Court. The District Attorney's Office handles all criminal complaints for prosecution submitted by the MCLA Department of Public Safety - Campus Police.In addition, you may want to report crimes that are not in progress to the following college officials: Dean of Students 662-5231 - 3rd Floor, Campus Center Assistant Dean of Students 662-5231 - 3rd Floor, Campus Center Director, Human Resources 662-5560 - Mark Hopkins Hall Director, Health Services 662-5421 - Hoosac Bank Wellness Center Director, Counseling Services 662-5331 - Hoosac Bank Wellness Center Director, Residential Programs & Services 662-5249 - Townhouse 89 Director, Womens Center 662-5497 - 3rd Floor, Campus Center
All crimes occurring on or in the immediate area of campus should be reported to the Department of Public Safety - Campus Police to aid in providing timely warning notices to the community, when appropriate, and to ensure inclusion in the annual crime statistics. THE CAMPUS COMMUNITYS RESPONSIBILITYThe cooperation and involvement of campus community members themselves in the campus safety program is necessary. College community members must assume responsibility for their own personal safety and the security of their personal belongings by taking common sense precautions. For example, although the campus is well lighted, any community member - male or female - may feel more comfortable using the Campus Police Escort Service when navigating the campus after dusk or during any time when they feel their safety may be in jeopardy. Residential living spaces should be kept locked at all times and administrative or business offices should be locked at all times after normal business hours. Valuable items such as wallets, purses, electronic items, etc… should not be left unattended where they can be seen and taken easily. Instead, they should be kept locked in a secure place. Community members should report any suspicious looking individuals who they feel do not belong on campus, any unusual incidents in and around campus or any crime to the Department of Public Safety - Campus Police immediately, and then to Residential Programs and Services staff. TIMELY WARNINGSThe Department of Public Safety - Campus Police, in conjunction with the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts administration, makes every effort to ensure "timely warnings" regarding any extraordinary event(s) that may pose an ongoing or continuing threat to the campus community or its property, are distributed to the same when deemed appropriate and necessary. The purpose of such notification is to ensure the highest regard for health, safety and the protection of life and property is maintained within the campus community. When deemed appropriate and essential, students, faculty, and staff will be contacted regarding such timely warning(s) through a variety of different methods. These may include telephone calls, voice-mail messages, e-mail announcements, community postings, local media sources such as television and radio, direct notification through staff and website notifications, such as the one that can be found on the MCLA Department of Public Safety - Campus Police Safety Alert page at: http://www.mcla.edu/Student_Life/Public_Safety/safetyalert.htm. The timing and method of warnings will depend on the degree of severity of the event or emergency, an assessment of it based on the timeliness and accuracy of available information, and the creation and implementation of an emergency action plan that takes into account the best safety practices for managing the event and making such notifications. Timely warnings will typically come from the Department of Public Safety - Campus Police, as this department serves as the 24 hour, seven days a week, operation on campus where reports of public safety related information are made. The department also has direct contacts with the North Adams Police and Fire Departments, as well as the Massachusetts State Police, in the event reports involving the safety of the campus community are made to them. All campus community members are urged to make similar notifications of events related to the health, safety and protection of life and property on campus, using the department's Emergency Line at 662-5100 or by dialing 911. Periodic reminders of this safety practice are communicated across campus through various media formats. SECURITY AND ACCESS TO CAMPUS FACILITIES - RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts houses approximately 900-950 full-time students in three residence areas. Each of the residence areas is staffed by a Residence Director, a team of undergraduate students who serve as Resident Advisors and Student Assistants who work at the main desks in each residence area. The entrance doors and emergency exit alarm doors are important components of building security in the two traditional style residence halls, Berkshire Towers and Hoosac Hall. The outside main entrances to Berkshire Towers and Hoosac Hall are locked 24 hours a day. Entrance to the two residence halls is controlled by front door keys which are issued to each building resident. Additionally, the residence area Student Assistant staff check College I.D.s as students enter. Students are cautioned not to prop these doors open or to allow people they do not know or who are not residents of the building to enter behind them. All individual rooms in Berkshire Towers and Hoosac Hall are also locked. Each resident is issued a key to his/her individual room and is responsible for locking it. In the Flagg Townhouse Apartments, each resident is ultimately responsible for the security of his/her own apartment. Each resident receives two keys. One key is for the exterior doors of the apartment; the other is for the residents room within the apartment. Townhouse residents are advised to keep their exterior apartment doors and individual room doors locked at all times; carry apartment keys with them at all times; not to store keys in stairwells, on light fixtures or in areas outside of the townhouse, and not provide or lend their keys to others. Each apartment has a door viewer and residents are advised to use them as a means to identify people before opening the doors to their apartments. GUEST POLICYAll non-residents of a residence area are considered guests. A sign-in policy at the main desk for all visitors is required. Both on-campus and off-campus visitors to a residence area must be escorted by their residence area sponsor at all times. Overnight visits by non-MCLA students are limited to a maximum stay of two nights within any seven day period. This practice is managed through a guest pass process. SECURITY AND ACCESS TO CAMPUS FACILITIES - ACADEMIC AND SUPPORT BUILDINGSBesides the 3 residence halls, there are eighteen other buildings on campus broken down into four basic use categories; academic support, student support, administrative support or faculty/staff office spaces. Generally speaking, academic buildings are unlocked during the hours of 7am-11pm; administrative support buildings are unlocked during the hours of 8:30am-5:00pm; student support locations are unlocked during the hours of 8:30 am-5:00pm with the exception being the Amsler Campus Center which is open 24 hours a day, year-round); faculty/staff office spaces remain locked at all times when not in use. Campus community members, guests and invitees all have access to these buildings during the business hours noted above. During non-business hours, (typically between 11pm-7am) access to these buildings is restricted through the use of issued building keys or through special authorized admittance approved by the college administration and provided by the Department of Public Safety - Campus Police. SECURITY AND MAINTENANCE CONSIDERATIONS OF CAMPUS FACILITIESThe security and maintenance of campus facilities is the responsibility of several departments throughout the college. Representatives from the Department of Public Safety - Campus Police, Facilities Department, and Residential Programs and Services all perform specific levels of routine maintenance, security checks, life safety surveys and inspections, and testing, as required by Massachusetts building, fire, and health codes. As an example, during the normal course of their patrols, Campus Police are responsible for the identification, documentation, and notification of any types of health and life safety hazards and to submit reports for correction of the same. Residence Life Staff perform regularly scheduled residence hall and room inspections in an effort to identify, document, and correct violations of community living standards and maintain records of the condition of facilities. The Facilities Department is responsible for the management and correction of the majority of health, life safety, and general maintenance issues generated by the inspections mentioned above, as well as performing their own inspections on life safety systems such as building sprinkler systems, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and fire alarm systems. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY - CAMPUS POLICE AUTHORITY AND JURISDICTIONThe MCLA Department of Public Safety - Campus Police is a proactive, full-time, law enforcement agency with the sworn duty to provide for the safety and security of the MCLA community. The departments jurisdictional responsibility comprises about twenty-five acres of land, containing twenty-one buildings, including three residence hall areas housing approximately 900-950 students. In addition, there is an athletic complex comprised of seventy acres of land and three buildings about two miles away from the main campus and an art gallery in downtown North Adams. All officers of the department are sworn and warranted police officers under the authority of Massachusetts General Law Chapter 22C, Section 63. All officers are required to attend a state certified police academy, successfully complete the basic Campus Police Officer Field Training Program and attend yearly in-service training to upgrade their skills and maintain state mandated certifications. This ensures the highest standards of professionalism are kept up. Officers are trained in first aid, CPR/AED and emergency medical procedures as First Responders. MCLA campus and resident areas are patrolled by Campus Police Officers on foot, on bicycle and in a cruiser, 24-hours a day. With twenty-four hour coverage, they are able to provide assistance at any time for the following listed emergencies: Reporting a fire Saving a life Stopping a crime Investigate reports of unusual people or circumstances Major maintenance problems when maintenance staff cannot be reached Any problems related to health, safety, or the protection of life and property needing immediate attention
The Department of Public Safety has an excellent working relationship with all surrounding law enforcement agencies, to include the North Adams Police and the Massachusetts State Police. The Massachusetts State Police is a nearby resource to assist in the enforcement of local and state laws on campus. Criminal incidents are routinely reported to these two agencies. State and local police provide backup on campus, upon request from the Department of Public Safety - Campus Police. City police provide the use of their lockup facility for persons arrested by Campus Police Officers. State and local police provide information to the department in regards to off campus criminal incidents involving our students, either as victims or suspects. In addition, the Department of Public Safety - Campus Police is connected to the Law Enforcement Agencies Processing System, which contains criminal information and records entered on a nationwide scale. MCLA does not operate any off-campus housing facilities and does not have any off-campus organization facilities. However, Campus Police Officers routinely patrol city streets in proximity to the campus, which have a heavy concentration of college students in residence. When a MCLA student is involved in an off-campus offense, MCLA Campus Police Officers may assist local law enforcement agencies with the investigation, however, the North Adams Police or the Massachusetts State Police have primary jurisdiction in all areas off campus. SECURITY AWARENESS & CRIME PREVENTION PROGRAMMINGThe Department of Public Safety - Campus Police and various other campus organizations collaborate throughout the year to present security awareness and crime prevention programming designed to inform college campus community members about campus security procedures and practices and to encourage them to be alert and vigilant around such issues. The department raises community awareness for students, parents, faculty, staff and visitors to the campus by providing a variety of educational strategies and tips during new employee orientation sessions, first year student orientation sessions, Residential Programs & Services staff training sessions, residence hall floor meetings, and through public announcements to the community and student organizations. Additionally, campus community members are offered ways to prevent becoming victims of crime through dedicated bulletin boards updated monthly, campus-wide poster campaigns, bulletins and crime alerts as needed, brochures, the college newspaper, campus electronic mail system, 24 hour/day access to the department web site and through the use of the college radio station. The Department of Public Safety - Campus Police offers an escort service for the college community 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. ALCOHOL POLICYThe Department of Public Safety - Campus Police strictly enforces local, state and federal laws regulating the possession, sale, consumption or furnishing of alcohol. MCLA intends for its students to abide by Massachusetts General Laws which prohibit those persons under the age of 21 from possessing, purchasing, or transporting alcoholic beverages. Those students who are of legal drinking age may possess alcoholic beverages in specific residence areas and under specific conditions, such as specifically designated social events. Students of legal age who choose to possess and use alcohol must do so responsibly. Students who are 21 years of age may not consume, possess or otherwise use alcohol when a minor is present. Conversely, minors may not be present when/where there is alcohol present unless specifically approved. This standard applies both on and off campus. At no time are students allowed to possess on campus (regardless of content) kegs, half-kegs, or similar "common" containers of beer such as "beer balls" and/or alcohol abuse apparatus such as funnels. Students are expected to become familiar and/or concerned with, where relevant, policies established by such offices as Residential Programs & Services and Public Safety before becoming involved in any event where alcoholic beverages are to be present. Behaviors resulting in violations of community standards as a result of improper use of alcohol will not be excused or mitigated. DRUG POLICYThe Department of Public Safety - Campus Police strictly enforces local, state and federal laws regulating the possession, sale, use or furnishing of illegal drugs. In accordance with the General Laws of Massachusetts, the college, as an instrument of the state, is obliged to uphold and maintain standards in relation to illegal drugs and substances. Therefore, students alleged to be in violation of these standards can expect the college to pursue such matters through its regularly established judicial processes. The possession, use, distribution or sale of narcotics, hallucinogens or other dangerous and/or illegal drugs is prohibited. The possession or sale of drug related paraphernalia is also prohibited. The college embraces wellness and, therefore, prohibits the use of any substance in a harmful or abusive manner. This may include over-the-counter substances or prescription drugs. Behaviors resulting in violations of community standards, as a result of improper use of drugs or other substances, will not be excused or provide justification for the college to mitigate its response to associated behaviors and violations. Please find the complete listing of the MCLA employee and student substance abuse policies below. Additional copies are available from the Department of Public Safety - Campus Police, Dean of Students, Human Resources, RPS and Health Services and are also published on the MCLA web site and in the student handbook. ALCOHOL AND DRUGSPreamble: Policy Principles MCLA is a community dedicated to the academic and personal development of its members and is committed to educational and social programs promoting these ends. The use of illegal drugs and alcohol abuse at the college workplace, on college property or at college activities both on and off campus impairs the safety and health of college community members, inhibits the personal and academic growth of students and undermines the publics confidence in the college. Only in an environment free of illegal drugs and alcohol abuse can the college fulfill its mission of developing the professional, social, cultural and intellectual potential of each member of its community. For these reasons, it shall be the policy of MCLA that all college activities, college property and the college workplace shall be free of the use of illegal drugs and the "abuse" of alcohol. MCLA recognizes the definition below of alcohol and other drug abuse. [The college considers substance abuse (alcohol and other drugs) to be a maladaptive pattern of substance use manifested by recurrent and significant adverse consequences related to the repeated use of substances. For example, there may be repeated failure to fulfill major role obligations, repeated use in situations in which it is physically hazardous, multiple legal problems, and recurrent social and interpersonal problems. Typically, these problems occur recurrently during the same 12- month period. In other words, criteria for substance abuse includes the harmful consequences of repeated use. As cited in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 4th edition, DSM IV, 1994.] Responsible use of alcohol will be allowed at college activities and on college property only under specified conditions. First, possession and consumption is limited to persons of legal age and is confined to particular locations and/or events. Second, events where alcohol will be served, shall be managed through the campus dining services. Third, resident students who are of legal age shall observe the regulations, which control the possession, use or distribution of alcohol within residence areas. Students should refer to the Resident Student Handbookand Guidelines for Community Living for these regulations. The college affirms that fundamental responsibility for personal behavior associated with the use of alcohol rests with the individual; however, the college will provide constructive leadership for promoting a positive environment for its members. In addition, the college will maintain and enforce rules and regulations deemed appropriate and necessary to preserve conditions essential to academic and personal well being. The principle aims of college policy concerning the use of alcoholic beverages on campus include: Providing balanced support for activities and programs for those who, by choice or by law, do not use alcoholic beverages. Reducing pressures on those who do not wish to use alcohol in social settings, formulation and enforcement of regulations for social events and individual conduct encouraging responsible, moderate and safe use of alcoholic beverages; providing for discipline of those whose use of alcohol is associated in any way with infringements of the rights of other community members to pursue academic, personal, and social endeavors. Provision for information, educational programs and counseling services to support community interests and values affected by social and individual use of alcohol, to minimize problems associated with alcohol use, and to assist all students in pursuing their goals for educational and personal development. Provide opportunity for community‑wide participation in the formulation, dissemination, and enforcement regulations.
b.Prohibited ConductThe students and staff of MCLA shall not unlawfully manufacture, distribute, dispense, possess or use controlled substances or alcohol on college property, in conjunction with any college activity or in the college workplace. No alcohol shall be present at any staff or student meetings or events where college business related efforts are being conducted. Responsible use of alcohol is allowed in this policy and is limited by the three conditions listed in section I. Any individual who violates this prohibition will be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the colleges policies. Further, any employee or student employee must notify the college Human Resources Director within five (5) days of being convicted of violating a criminal drug statute in the workplace. The college will notify appropriate authorities as required that an employee or student employee has been convicted of a drug-related offense within ten (10) days. All resident students living in Berkshire Towers, Hoosac Hall or the Flagg Townhouses should familiarize themselves with the Residence Area Alcohol and Drug policy, found in the Resident Student Handbook. This document is available to all students through Residential Programs & Services. All college guests are expected to adhere to college policies throughout their visit on campus or attendance at campus events and programs. c. Alcohol and Other Drugs: Effects and Abuse Prevention ResourcesSubstance abuse programs have been developed which apply to the college as both an educational institution and a workplace. These programs are designed to: Establish and enforce clear policies for employees and students that promote an educational environment free from the abuse of alcohol and the use of illegal drugs Educate all members of the campus community about the health risks associated with the use of illegal drugs and the abuse of alcohol Create a campus environment that promotes and reinforces healthy, responsible living and respect for community and campus standards and regulations Provide intervention for alcohol abusers and users of illegal drugs through counseling, treatment and referral
Counseling Services and the colleges Health Services provide education on substance use and abuse. If students and/or employees have any questions concerning the health risks associated with the use of illegal drugs or substances and the abuse of alcohol, they should contact Counseling Services, Health Services, the Employee Assistance Program or personal health care providers. d. Help and Information Concerning the Health Risks Associated with Drug and Alcohol UseThe use of drugs and alcohol, even infrequently, may damage ones health. A listing of the health risks associated with the use of alcohol and drugs is enumerated under Part V of this policy. The Colleges Counseling Services and Health Services or your health care provider can inform you of the effect specific substances have upon your health. Help concerning drug and alcohol-related problems are available from several sources. If you need assistance, or know of someone who needs help, or, if you have questions concerning alcohol and drug abuse, you may contact any of the following: Web site: http://MyStudentBody.com Counseling Services, Hoosac Bank Student Wellness Center, Ext. 5331 Health Services Office, Hoosac Bank Student Wellness Center, Ext. 5421 MCLA Director of Human Resources
Mark Hopkins Hall, Ext. 5598 Drug and Alcohol Hotline
Substance Abuse Division, Information and Referrals, (800) 327-5050 Alcoholics Anonymous
For more information on local meetings, call Pittsfield (413) 443-0212, or Berkshire Intergroup (413) 448-2382. Each Saturday, The Transcript has a complete listing of all AA groups and other 12-step self-help groups. Employee Assistance Program
(413) 499-4481 or 800/255-2599 Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services of the Berkshires
(413) 499-1000 McGee Unit at Hillcrest Hospital
165 Tor Court, Pittsfield, MA
(413) 443-4761 or (800) 222-1664, Ext. 154 Narcotics Anonymous (413) 443-4377
e.Health Risks Associated with Use of Alcohol and Other DrugsAlcoholaddiction (particularly for individuals with alcoholism in their families) every drinking episode results in some irreversible damage to brain cells fetal alcohol syndrome (birth defects caused by women drinking during pregnancy) increased risk of cirrhosis, ulcers, heart disease, injury by accident, cancer of mouth, esophagus, liver and stomach blackouts development of personality disorders increased tendency to abusive behavior impaired judgment may put yourself in life-threatening situation (physical alcohol/unwanted pregnancy) loss of inhibitions malnutrition and resultant damage to muscle, bone and other tissues circulatory impairment depression of central nervous system function increased effect of narcotics/tranquilizers when used together alcohol poisoning leading to possible coma and death Marijuanapsychological addiction depending on patterns of use stored in body fat for 4-6 weeks disruption of brain function is caused by a motivational syndrome (loss of energy and enthusiasm including short-term memory loss and impaired depth perception and time/space orientation) lung damage due to tar and other chemicals increased heart rate increased appetite which can lead to weight gain idiosyncratic constriction of air passages in lungs of asthmatics disruption of reproductive organ function in men and women Stimulants (Ephedrine, Crystal Meth, Crack, Cocaine, Ritalin, etc.)extremely addictive development of overwhelming, uncontrollable compulsion to repeat use (with "crack" cocaine) central nervous stimulant increased heart rate, respiratory rate and blood pressure possible death producing fibrillation of the heart possible death producing seizures and strokes impairs judgment anxiety, restlessness, apprehension, hyperactivity, impulsiveness, exhaustion, delusional thinking increased tendency of abusive behavior Hallucinogens (LSD, PCP, mushrooms, Ecstasy)paranoid thoughts, anxiety, panic, depression delusions, time and visual distortions depersonalization extreme suggestibility while under the influence of the drug intensification of any pre-existing psychosis ataxia (unsteady gait/balance problem) impaired memory alteration of electrical activity of brain changes in levels of brain chemicals Inhalants — a diverse group of chemicals, including solvents, aerosols, gases, and volatile nitritesdepression of the central nervous system, can lead to death from a single use psychologically and physically addictive headache, muscle weakness, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, nosebleeds, tremors heart, lung, kidney, and liver impairment/damage brain and nervous system damage and paralysis Heroinprolonged psychological dependence rapid tolerance and physical addiction depression in central nervous system, suppression of pain sensation and relief from anxiety possible collapsed veins and infections such as hepatitis, endocarditis, or HIV/AIDS due to needle infection transmission irregular heartbeat and breathing drowsiness which may progress to coma and death depending on dose possibility of severe health consequences depending on the inert chemicals with which the heroin is combinedThe above information on health risks was compiled by the Health Services Office. f.Criminal and Legal Sanctions Associated with Drug and Alcohol UseThe Student Affairs and Department of Public Safety maintain a list of the legal sanctions associated with alcohol and drug abuse. In general, severe sanctions may be imposed upon an individual who manufactures, distributes or possesses controlled substances such as marijuana, cocaine, crack or prescription drugs. The penalties may be doubled for offenses occurring on or near the college. These penalties include fines and imprisonment. The illegal purchasing of alcohol, the illegal possession of alcohol, or the providing of alcohol to minors carries penalties including fines and imprisonment. Specific references may be obtained from the Department of Public Safety. Further, the Board of Higher Educations Alcohol Policy (BHE 99-02) that was incorporated into the guidelines for campus safety and security and campus codes of conduct adopted by the Board in May 1997, call on campuses to add to the list of zero tolerance offenses third offense underage possession or consumption of any alcoholic beverage following progressive discipline for the first two offenses. Additionally, minimum mandatory college sanctions are described in the Resident Student Handbook and in this Handbook, which result from responsible findings in alcohol violations. RAPE AND SEXUAL ASSAULTHIGHER EDUCATION AMENDMENTS OF 1992 (SEXUAL ASSAULT-PUBLIC LAW 102-325)This law contains a provision requiring colleges to develop and disseminate their sexual assault policies. In addition, colleges are required to collect statistics on "forcible" and "non-forcible" sex offenses. The college does not tolerate sexual assault in any form. Rape and other sexual assaults are violations of Commonwealth law, as well as college policy prohibiting sexual assault. MCLA accepts the following as definitions of sexual assault as defined by law. Sex offenses - Attempted or actual unwanted sexual activity, forcible or non-forcible sex. Forcible sex is, "any sexual act directed against another person, forcibly and/or against that persons will, or not forcibly against the persons will where the victim is incapable of giving consent," and includes forcible rape, forcible sodomy, sexual assault with any object and forcible fondling. Non-forcible sex is "unlawful, non-forcible sexual intercourse", including incest and statutory rape. Acquaintance rape - Rape by a date, friend or acquaintance, regardless of the relationship between perpetrator and victim is as serious a crime as stranger rape and the same laws and criminal penalties apply to both. Date rape often occurs out of some level of mutually acceptable sexual activity. At some point, the victim has stopped consenting and is overpowered.
WHERE TO GET HELPAny student who feels his/her rights have been violated in relation to the sexual assault policy should report the matter to any of the following staff and/or office representatives: Dean of Students and Assistant Dean of Students Director of Public Safety - Campus Police Director of Residential Programs & Services
Information concerning sexual assault incident aftermath and college complaint processes is available in these locations. The Department of Public Safety can provide information concerning civil and criminal proceedings. In addition students may contact the College Counseling Center (413-662-5331) and/or the Elizabeth Freeman Center, (24 hour hotline 413-663-9709), a local rape crisis center with offices in North Adams and Pittsfield. RAPE AWARENESS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION PROGRAMSTrained personnel provide members of the campus community with numerous presentations on rape awareness, prevention education, and reporting throughout the academic year. In addition, the MVP Program at Northeastern University offers several action steps which students are encouraged to consider in an effort to prevent sexual assault and rape. Although the language in the information below suggests that rape is a crime, which men commit against women, as a society, we know rape crimes can be committed by anyone and that women are not the only victims. Nonetheless, the information below is provided as a guide to strengthening rape prevention education. Action Steps for MenApproach gender violence as a mens issue, involving men of all socioeconomic and and racial backgrounds. View men not only as perpetrators or potential offenders, but also as empowered bystanders who can confront abusive peers. If a brother, a friend, a classmate, or a teammate is abusing his female partner--or is abusive to females in general--do not look the other way. Urge him to seek help, or if you do not know what to do, consult a friend, a parent, a professor, or a counselor. Do not remain silent. Have the courage to look inward. Understand how your own attitudes and actions may perpetuate sexism and violence, and work to change them. If you suspect that a woman close to you is being abused or has been sexually assaulted, gently ask if you can help. If you are emotionally, psychologically, or physically abusive to women, or have been in the past, seek professional help now. Be an ally to women who are working to end all forms of gender violence. Support campus womens centers, attend "Take Back the Night" rallies, and raise money for battered womens shelters and rape crisis centers. If you belong to a team or a fraternity, organize a fundraiser. Recognize and speak out against homophobia and gay bashing. Discrimination and violence against lesbians and gays are wrong in and of themselves. This abuse also has direct links to sexism (for instance, men who speak out against sexism are often subject to homophobic abuse--one reason so few men do so). Attend programs, take courses, and read articles and books about masculinity, gender inequality, and the root causes of gender violence. Educate yourself and others about how large social forces affect the conflicts between individual men and women. Dont fund sexism. Refuse to purchase any magazine, rent any video, or buy any music that portrays women in a sexually degrading or violent manner. Protest sexism in the media. Mentor and teach young boys about how to be men in ways that do not involve degrading or abusing girls and women. Lead by example.
Action Steps for WomenThink about gender violence as a major social problem that touches the lives of women of all socioeconomic and racial backgrounds. Focus on the ways in which you, as an empowered bystander, can support at-risk women and girls and confront abusive men. If you are being emotionally, psychologically, or physically abused in an intimate relationship, or have been in the past, seek professional help now. If you suspect that your sister, friend, classmate, or teammate is being abused or has been sexually assaulted, let her know you are there to support her. Help to educate and empower your peers and younger girls to end sexism and not tolerate abuse. Get involved with youth outreach and mentoring programs in local high schools and middle schools. Familiarize yourself with the resources available for women on your campus, including the Womens Center, Counseling Services, and Health Services. Be a positive resource for women close to you by sharing information and making appropriate referrals. Support women and men who are working to end mens violence against women. Get involved with the campus Susan B. Anthony Womens Center, attend "Take Back the Night" rallies, and volunteer at battered womens shelters and rape crisis centers. If you belong to a campus group, organize a fundraiser. Trained personnel, guest speakers and peer educators provide members of the campus community with numerous presentations on rape awareness, prevention education and reporting throughout the year.
RAPE/SEXUAL ASSAULT/SEXUAL ABUSE VICTIMSA student, staff, or faculty member who is a victim of rape, sexual assault, or sexual abuse is strongly encouraged to report this crime immediately to the campus Department of Public Safety. The college may provide support to victims of sexual offenses through a variety of resources including the Counseling Services, Health Services, Department of Public Safety, Residential Programs & Services, and the Dean of Students. It is each victims individual decision whether to report these crimes to the local police, but the department urges that reporting take place to help assure a safe living and working environment for the entire college community. Even if a victim does not wish to pursue a criminal prosecution or initiate a formal complaint, the college urges that the victim notify campus authorities so appropriate support services can be pursued in an informed manner. RAPE PREVENTION/PERSONAL SAFETYPrevention is being alert and prepared. Lock your room at all times. Lock your townhouse or suite door as well. Use the peephole in your door. Avoid poorly lighted streets, alleys and pathways. Keep alert — if you see a person acting suspiciously head for bright lights and people. Never jog/walk alone. Stick to a planned route and run with a friend. Never hitchhike. Be aware of your surroundings. Your first defense is noise — scream! Scream "fire" not "help" to attract more attention. Dont get in an elevator if there is someone suspicious already in the car. Convey confidence through body language. Walk with your head up and be alert. Dont mark your room key or key chain with your name, address, or telephone number. If a person at a party insists or pressures you to accept a ride home, become suspicious and do not accept the offer. If you use alcohol, do so responsibly. Never leave your drink unattended. In a dating situation, define exactly what you want from a relationship. Always strive to say what you really mean. Be assertive. Maintain control over your personal life. Trust your instincts. If you feel it is not right, it probably is not.
PENALTIES RELATED TO SEXUAL ASSAULTWhile a sexual offense against an individual is rare on our campus, MCLA is committed to creating and maintaining an environment where sexual abuse, sexual assault, and rape are not tolerated and where all members of the college community are educated in preventing such an incident. All reported incidents will be investigated. Sexual assault, sexual abuse, rape, stalking, and harassment will result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal from the college. PROCEDURES FOR REPORTING SEXUAL ASSAULT AT MCLA All criminal actions or other emergencies occurring on campus should be reported to the Department of Public Safety. Public Safety staff will assist the victim in reporting the case of alleged sexual assault to other appropriate agencies. The emergency telephone number is 662-5100 or 911 from on campus. If you are a victim and decide not to notify Public Safety, please: CONFIDENTIALITYAll police contacts with victims of sexual assault are private matters. Massachusetts law guarantees the privacy of sexual assault victims. The identity of victims will be kept private and will not be released to anyone without the victims consent, including college officials or any media. SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY AND ACCESS TO RELATED INFORMATIONThe federal Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act, enacted on October 28, 2000, went into effect October 28, 2002. The law requires institutions of higher education to issue a statement advising the campus community where law enforcement agency information provided by a state concerning registered sex offenders may be obtained. It also requires sex offenders already required to register in a state to provide notice as required under state law, of each institution of higher education in that state at which the person is employed, carries on a vocation, or is a student. In the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, convicted sex offenders must register with the Sex Offender Registry Board. Information concerning offenders registered with the Sex Offender Registry Board may be disclosed to any person 18 years of age or older, requesting information on a specific individual in accordance with the law. Information regarding a specific person requested pursuant to the law shall be disseminated upon receipt of an official request form, which may be obtained through the City of North Adams Police Department. Information concerning offenders may also be available electronically through contact with the appropriate web site related to the Massachusetts Sex Offender Registry Board. The pertinent web site address for securing related information is: http://www.state.ma.us/sorb/
| MASSACHUSETTS COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS | | | | | | | | Criminal Offenses - On-Campus | | For each of the following criminal offenses, enter the number of occurrences that took place On-campus | | | | | | | | On-campus | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | | Criminal Offense | | | | | | Murder/Non-negligent manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Negligent Manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Sex offenses - Forcible | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | | Sex offenses - Non-forcible | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Robbery | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | | Aggravated Assault | 0 | 2 | 5 | 0 | | Burglary | 7 | 10 | 13 | 27 | | Motor Vehicle Theft | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | | Arson | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | | | | | | | Of those criminal offenses that took place On-campus, enter the number that occurred in residence | | halls for each of the following criminal offenses. | | | | | | | | | | | | On-campus, Residence Halls | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | | Criminal Offense | | | | | | Murder/Non-negligent manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Negligent Manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Sex offenses - Forcible | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | | Sex offenses - Non-forcible | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Robbery | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Aggravated Assault | 0 | 2 | 5 | 0 | | Burglary | 7 | 9 | 4 | 1 | | Motor Vehicle Theft | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Arson | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | | | | | | | Criminal Offenses - Non-campus | | For each of the following criminal offenses, enter the number of occurrences that took place at | | Non-campus buildings | | | | | | | | | | | | Non-campus | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | | Criminal Offense | | | | | | Murder/Non-negligent manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Negligent Manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Sex offenses - Forcible | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Sex offenses - Non-forcible | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Robbery | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Aggravated Assault | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Burglary | 1 | 2 | 1 | 0 | | Motor Vehicle Theft | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Arson | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | | | | | | | Criminal Offenses - Public Property | | For each of the following criminal offenses, enter the number of occurrences that took place on | | Public Property. | | | | | | | | | | | | Public Property | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | | Criminal Offense | | | | | | Murder/Non-negligent manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Negligent Manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Sex offenses - Forcible | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | | Sex offenses - Non-forcible | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Robbery | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | | Aggravated Assault | 0 | 3 | 0 | 5 | | Burglary | 0 | 0 | 10 | 13 | | Motor Vehicle Theft | 1 | 1 | 0 | 5 | | Arson | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | | | | | | | Hate Offenses - On-campus | | **Note: Your institution is required to disclose data on hate crimes by category of prejudice. For purposes of | | this data collection only the total number of hate crimes is being requested. | | | | | | | | | | For the criminal offenses listed below, enter the number of reported occurrences that manifest | | evidence of prejudice based on race, religion, sexual orientation, gender, disability or ethnicity | | "hate crimes") that took place On-campus, as prescribed by the Hate Crimes Statistics Act (28 U.S.C 534). | | These data are collected as the summary of these six types of prejudice. | | | | Forcible rape is included in all forcible sex offenses. | | | | | | | | | | | | On-campus | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | | Criminal Offense | | | | | | Murder/Non-negligent Manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Negligent Manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Sex offenses - Forcible | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Sex offenses - Non-forcible | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Robbery | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Aggravated Assault | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Burglary | | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Motor Vehicle Theft | | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Arson | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Any other crime involving bodily injury | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | | | | | | | Of those criminal offenses that took place On-campus, enter the number that occurred in residence | | halls for each of the following criminal offenses. | | | | | | | | | | | | On-campus, In Residence Halls | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | | Criminal Offense | | | | | | Murder/Non-negligent Manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Negligent Manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Sex offenses - Forcible | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Sex offenses - Non-forcible | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Robbery | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Aggravated Assault | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Burglary | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Motor Vehicle Theft | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Arson | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Any other crime involving bodily injury | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | | | | | | | Hate Offenses - Non-campus | | **Note: Your institution is required to disclose data on hate crimes by category of prejudice. For purposes of this | | data collection, only the total number of hate crimes is being requested. | | | | | | | | | | | For the criminal offenses listed below, enter the number of reported occurrences that manifest | | evidence of prejudice based on race, religion, sexual orientation, gender, disability or ethnicity | | ("hate crimes") that took place Non-campus buildings, as prescribed by the Hate Crimes Statistics Act | | (28 U.S.C 534). Forcible rape is included in all forcible sex offenses. | | | | | | | | | | | Non-campus | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | | Criminal Offense | | | | | | Murder/Non-negligent manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Negligent Manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Sex offenses - Forcible | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Sex offenses - Non-forcible | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Robbery | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Aggravated Assault | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Burglary | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Motor Vehicle Theft | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Arson | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Any other crime involving bodily injury | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | | | | | | | Hate Offenses - Public Property | | | | | | | | **Note: Your institution is required to disclose data on hate crimes by category of prejudice. For purposes of this | | data collection, only the total number of hate crimes is being requested. | | | | | | | | | | | For the criminal offenses listed below, enter the number of reported occurrences that manifest | | evidence of prejudice based on race, religion, sexual orientation, gender, disability or ethnicity | | ("hate crimes") that took place Public Property buildings, as prescribed by the Hate Crimes Statistics Act | | (28 U.S.C 534). Forcible rape is included in all forcible sex offenses. | | | | | | | | | | | Public Property | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | | Criminal Offense | | | | | | Murder/Non-negligent manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Negligent Manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Sex offenses - Forcible | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Sex offenses - Non-forcible | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Robbery | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Aggravated Assault | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Burglary | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Motor Vehicle Theft | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Arson | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Any other crime involving bodily injury | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | | | | | | | Arrests - On-campus | | | | | | | | Enter the number of arrests for each of the following crimes occurring On-campus. Do not include drunkenness and driving under the influence in these statistics. | | | | | | | | | | | | | On-campus | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | | Crime | | | | | | Illegal Weapons Possessions | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Drug Law Violations | 0 | 2 | 8 | 5 | | Liquor-law Violations | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | | | | | | | | Of those arrests that took place On-campus, enter the number that occurred in residence halls for each of the following crimes. | | | | | | | | | | | | | | On-campus, Residence Halls | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | | Crime | | | | | | Illegal Weapons Possessions | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Drug Law Violations | 0 | 2 | 4 | 2 | | Liquor-law Violations | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | | | | | | | Enter the number of "Disciplinary Actions/Judicial Referrals" for each of the following crimes. | | | | | | | | Disciplinary Actions/Judicial Referrals | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | | Crime | | | | | | Illegal Weapons Possessions | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | | Drug Law Violations | 29 | 5 | 30 | 13 | | Liquor-law Violations | 167 | 122 | 87 | 58 | | | | | | | | Arrests - Non-campus | | | | | | | | Enter the number of arrests for each of the following crimes occurring at Non-campus buildings. | | Do not include drunkenness and driving under the influence in these statistics. | | | | | | | | | | Non-campus | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | | Crime | | | | | | Illegal Weapons Possessions | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Drug Law Violations | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Liquor-law Violations | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | | | | | | | Enter the number of "Disciplinary Actions/Judicial Referrals" for each of the following crimes. | | | | | | | | Disciplinary Actions/Judicial Referrals | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | | Crime | | | | | | Illegal Weapons Possessions | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Drug Law Violations | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Liquor-law Violations | 9 | 6 | 0 | 0 | | | | | | | | Arrests - Public Property | | | | | | | | Enter the number of arrests for each of the following crimes occurring on Public Property. | | Do not include drunkenness and driving under the influence in these statistics. | | | | | | | | | | Public Property | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | | Crime | | | | | | Illegal Weapons Possessions | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | | Drug Law Violations | 0 | 2 | 7 | 3 | | Liquor-law Violations | 4 | 4 | 1 | 2 | | | | | | | | Enter the number of "Disciplinary Actions/Judicial Referrals" for each of the following crimes. | | | | | | | | Disciplinary Actions/Judicial Referrals | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | | Crime | | | | | | Illegal Weapons Possessions | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | | Drug Law Violations | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | | Liquor-law Violations | 11 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
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