Published in compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Statistics Act (hereinafter referred to as the Campus Security Act).
The Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act was signed into law in November 1990. Title II of this Act was known as the Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act which was amended and renamed in 1998 as the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Statistics Act, then amended by the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act (VAWA) effective July 1, 2015.
This law mandates that institutions receiving Title IV federal funds disseminate crime statistics for certain serious offenses that occurred on campus and in adjacent areas for the current and previous two calendar years. The purpose of this report is to provide current and prospective faculty, staff, and students with campus safety information including crime statistics and procedures to follow to report a crime. This document was compiled by the office of the Vice President for Student Affairs.
This reporting responsibility goes beyond “official” reports and must include incidents reported to identified staff even if a victim or student who reports a crime does not want to pursue action and wishes to remain anonymous. All college officials with “significant responsibility for student and campus activities” are required to report crimes. These officials include administrative staff, academic deans, Residence Life and Housing staff (including all residence hall directors and all residence hall student staff), the Student Conduct Office, University Police, Athletics (including all full- and part-time coaches), the Title IX Coordinator, and all advisors and coaches to student clubs and organizations. Visit the University Police website, Crime Statistics/Reports/Forms page for the suggested reporting format. See Reporting Crimes for options and contact information.
This law requires that campus report specific criminal activities that occur on campus property and specific areas around those properties. Note that crimes occur in the community beyond what is required to be reported in this document. Students, employees and community members are advised to exercise caution in ALL locations.
On Campus is defined as any building or property owned or controlled by the institution within the same reasonably contiguous geographic area and used by the institution in direct support of, or in a manner related to, the institution’s educational purposes, including residence halls; and any building or property that is within or reasonably contiguous to the area identified in this definition that is owned by the institution but controlled by another person and supports institutional purposes (such as a food or other retail vendor). At Cortland, this includes the main campus property and the McDonald Building. During the Fall 2020 semester, College Suites, 951 Rt. 13, Cortland, NY was leased and controlled by the University for additional student housing.
Non Campus is defined as any building or property owned or controlled by a student organization that is officially recognized by the institution; or any building or property owned or controlled by an institution that is used in direct support of, or in relation to, the institution’s educational purposes, is frequently used by students, and is not within the same reasonably contiguous geographic area of the institution. Note that in 2017 we were informed that the student organization Alpha Phi controlled the sorority house at 39 Tompkins St., Cortland, NY making it a non-campus property. The campus owns/operates property at the Outdoor Education Center at Raquette Lake in the Adirondacks, Brauer Field Station on the Helderberg Escarpment near Albany and Hoxie Gorge Nature Preserve outside of Cortland. During the Fall 2020 semester, the campus leased the following locations for quarantine and isolation housing sites due to the COVID-19 pandemic:
Fairfield Inn & Suites, 3707 NY-Rt 281, Cortland, NY 13045
Hampton Inn, 26 River Street, Cortland, NY 13045
Clarion Inn, 2 1/2 Locust Ave, Cortland, NY 13045
Public Property is defined as all public property, including thoroughfares, streets, sidewalks and parking facilities, within the campus or immediately adjacent to and accessible from the campus.
If a member of the university community has reason to believe that a student is missing, they should immediately notify the University Police at 607-753-2111. Do not wait if you believe a student is missing. In addition to registering a general emergency contact, students have the option to confidentially identify an individual to be contacted in the event the student is determined to be missing. A student who wishes to identify a confidential contact can do so through the myRedDragon portal, select the Student tab, then Related Links and select Update/Edit/View Emergency Contacts and designate the person in the “Relationship” drop down as their missing student contact. A student’s confidential “Missing Student” contact information will be accessible only by authorized campus officials and law enforcement in the course of the investigation.
On-campus students: University Police will generate a missing person report and initiate an investigation. University Police will notify all local police agencies pursuant to the Memorandums of Understanding. University Police will notify the student’s “Missing Student” emergency contact and the student’s parents/guardian if the student is under 18 years of age (and not considered emancipated) within 24 hours of the University Police determination that the student is officially “missing.”
Off-campus students: The investigation will be referred to the proper local law enforcement agency and the University Police will assist said agency.
In an effort to encourage accurate and prompt reporting, all members of the campus community are urged to report criminal incidents, emergencies and suspicious activity. The campus emergency number is 607-753-2111 or 911. These numbers should be used for all fire, medical, and police emergencies.
All reports are classified, logged and responded to thoroughly. The off-campus emergency number is 911. Crimes in progress and any other emergency on campus can be reported directly by any student or employee to University Police who can also be reached by using the campus emergency blue light phones or the residence hall door phones that have a “red” campus police emergency button. University Police officers are dispatched immediately to the site of the report. Incident reports are prepared and kept on file.
SUNY Cortland has the authority to pursue student conduct action for incidents occurring off campus that violate College policy including federal, state and/or local laws, statutes, and ordinances.
The University will not retaliate or allow any retaliation toward a person(s) who reports alleged violations of the Clery Act.
These offices and departments allow victims and witnesses to report crimes:
Campus personnel will assist victims with the on- and off-campus reporting process and provide support.
Different employees on campus have different abilities to maintain a victim's confidentiality. Our mental health counselors and health care providers acting in their professional capacities can maintain confidentiality. They may, however, encourage (when appropriate) reporting the crime on a voluntary basis for inclusion in the annual disclosure of crime statistics. Other reporting agents can treat information as private, but are required to communicate certain information to appropriate authorities.
Crime statistics are distributed monthly and yearly through email and posted on the University Police website.
No matter how safe our community is, the potential for crime exists everywhere, including college campuses. Everyone in the community must do their part to minimize risk whenever possible.
SUNY Cortland will, upon written request, disclose to the alleged victim of a crime of violence (as that term is defined in Section 16 of Title 18, US Code), or a non-forcible sex offense, the report on the results of any disciplinary proceeding against a student who is the alleged perpetrator of said crime or offense. If the alleged victim is deceased as a result of said crime or offense, the next of kin of the victim shall be treated as the alleged victim for the purposes of this paragraph.
A crime can only be unfounded if the report is found to be false or baseless. A crime is not considered unfounded if someone is found not guilty, not arrested, or not charged. Unfounding is an extreme and rare measure to be used when, using a reasonable investigative standard, sworn law enforcement determine that the reported crime did not happen. Only sworn/commissioned law enforcement can "unfound” a crime. This does not include a district attorney.
Students and employees have access to academic, recreational, and administrative facilities and locations housing cultural and recreational events during scheduled hours. Access to residence halls is limited to students and their guests according to guest procedures (see Code of Student Conduct and the Room and Board License and Residence Hall Policies) as well as residence hall and facilities personnel in the performance of duties. Access to certain buildings, including residence halls, are restricted to card access.
Campus safety and law enforcement is coordinated by the University Police Department which has a force of sworn officers with full arrest powers. SUNY police officers must meet the highest standards in New York State for law enforcement officers. Officers have successfully completed a basic training program administered by the State University at the New York State Police Academy in Albany, New York, or a local regional academy. They also undergo continuous training to upgrade their skills.
Officers have been trained in emergency medical procedures and first aid. Foot, bike and vehicle patrols are conducted on campus and in residence hall areas 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. The Department’s objective is to provide a safe environment and protect the lives and property of students, employees and visitors, pursued within the framework of the State University of New York rules and regulations and all local, state and federal laws.
The investigation of crimes committed on campus falls under the jurisdiction of University Police. A daily log of incidents that occur on campus is kept and is available for the public to view from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday or by request by contacting University Police. The log includes the date, time, general location and disposition of the complaint. Entries are available for review unless they are deemed confidential by the Chief of University Police for safety and security reasons. University Police works closely with the Cortland City Police, the Sheriff’s Department and the New York State Police to assist with incidents that occur off campus but may involve campus students or employees.
The New York State Campus Security Act requires all public, private, community colleges and universities in New York to have a formal plan that provides for the investigation of missing students and violent felony offenses on campus. This involves written agreements between university and college authorities and the municipal law enforcement agencies having concurrent jurisdiction.
SUNY Cortland’s University Police has a local Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Cortland City Police Department in the event a violent felony or a missing student is reported to campus authorities. Should such a report be received, University Police may request assistance from this agency as well as the Cortland County Sheriff’s Office and the New York State Police as appropriate to conduct a complete investigation.
This board’s responsibilities are:
This team formalizes a process for reporting and addressing specific, alarming behaviors that do not fall within existing reporting procedures such as those established by Counseling and Wellness Services, University Police, Residence Life and Housing office, and the Student Conduct Office. Specifically, this team will create a care management system to intervene early with students who are at risk. They will:
The campus Facilities Operations and Services maintains the campus buildings and grounds with a priority of safety and security. Staff inspect campus facilities regularly, promptly make repairs affecting safety and security, and respond immediately to reports of potential safety and security hazards such as broken windows and locks.
For concerns about the physical safety of campus buildings and grounds, call the Facilities Operations and Services Office at 607-753-2100 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Emergencies outside of these hours should be reported to University Police at 607-753-2112.
The campus is well lighted, and improvements on lighting are a constant consideration. SUNY Cortland has installed high-intensity lights on buildings, in parking lot areas, in areas with heavy landscaping and trees, and along pathways frequently traveled by students. Outdoor emergency blue light phones and residence hall door phones are connected directly to University Police. In addition, security cameras have been added to areas vulnerable to vandalism and continue to be added as facilities are renovated and improved.
Staff are committed to providing a safe environment for students within the residence halls. Students are made aware of safety concerns as well as prevention tactics and personal responsibility through a variety of in-hall mediums. Each residence hall is supervised by a residence hall director who is a professional staff member residing within the hall. Each building is also staffed with a number of trained resident assistants (RAs).
There is a designated residence hall director on duty 24 hours a day. Each residence hall has an RA on duty from 9 p.m. to 8 a.m. Residence hall students are issued a key to their room and use their SUNY Cortland ID card for access to their own residence hall main entrance. Hall entrances are locked 24 hours a day, and a campus-only phone is located at the main entrance.
Residence hall guest and other policies and procedures are listed in the Room and Board License and Residence Hall Policies available at the Residence Life and Housing office website.
The College’s leadership is trained in assessing emergency situations, appropriately responding to emergencies, and initiating necessary communication with those immediately impacted by the event and the greater campus community.
The Chief of University Police, in consultation with the Vice President for Student Affairs, is responsible for determining the level of an incident. In the absence of the chief, the assistant chief, lieutenants, or the officer in charge, respectively, will make appropriate consults and level determination. If there were a serious, immediate threat to the health and safety of the campus community, the emergency response protocol would be enacted as appropriate to the situation. This can include activation of NY Alert telephone and text notification, campus siren, loudspeaker, the large screen messaging system, an alert message in the myRedDragon portal and the SUNY Cortland homepage.
Notification to the greater campus community is coordinated between University Police and the Communications Office pursuant to policies and agreements with local law enforcement agencies and media outlets.
Employees and students should familiarize themselves with the emergency evacuation procedures posted in their buildings. Special attention should be given to the evaluation procedures for persons with disabilities.
SUNY Cortland tests its entire emergency notification system two times per year, and its siren and fire alarms three times per year. Pursuant to its procedures, fire drills are not announced. Testing of the other emergency systems may be announced or unannounced. Learn more about the emergency notification system.
Timely Warnings shall be issued whenever a Clery crime that is considered to represent a serious or continuing threat to students and employees is reported to University Police or a local police agency and has occurred within the university’s Clery geography. Whenever a timely warning is sent it shall be sent to the entire community.
Emergency Notifications shall be issued when a significant emergency or dangerous situation involving an immediate threat to the health or safety of students or employees occurs on the campus. As appropriate, emergency notifications may be targeted at only a segment or segments of the campus community that is at risk. Emergency notifications will be issued without delay unless doing so would compromise efforts to assist a victim or to contain, respond to, or otherwise mitigate the emergency.
Illegal possession and/or use of controlled substances are violations of state and federal law and College policy. SUNY Cortland permits the use of alcoholic beverages on campus by those who comply with state law and who adhere to the guidelines established by the College. Students living in residence halls are allowed to possess and consume alcohol in their rooms in compliance with College regulations. Students and employees should be aware that the campus strictly enforces its policies with regard to alcohol and other drug violations, and policy and law violations will be subject to appropriate legal/conduct proceedings. The College’s alcohol and other drug policies can be found in the Code of Student Conduct and Related Policies and the College Handbook.
Members of the campus community in need of assistance with a question or personal problem related to alcohol or other drugs should contact the Substance Education and Prevention Office, Van Hoesen Hall, Room B-1. A description of alcohol and other drug policies, penalties and support services appears in the campus publication, “Campus Policies for Alcohol and Other Drugs" linked under “Policy Notices." This office provides leadership in helping students understand the connection between substance abuse and future success, to identify their individual risk factors for chemical dependency, and examine the choices they have made regarding alcohol and other drug use. Toward this goal, they provide services that include a 3rd Millennium online course and individual motivational interviewing session to help students who have violated alcohol or drug policies make safer, healthier choices, as well as alcohol-free environments and events and referrals to off campus counseling resources. Substance education is also included in a required course for new students, COR 101: The Cortland Experience. Individual counseling, educational workshops, and information and resources on campus and in the community are also available.
Abuse of alcohol and other drugs can create life-threatening situations that require an immediate response from emergency services personnel. It is the intent of the University to encourage a witness or intoxicated person who is suffering from an alcohol or other drug overdose to seek emergency assistance. The University aims to prevent future alcohol and drug related emergencies by providing education to intoxicated persons in such emergencies and referring those students to appropriate services. In all instances, the University is concerned that those in need receive prompt medical attention and expects help will be sought. The University cannot guarantee absolute immunity from sanctions associated with violations of the Student Code of Conduct or state and federal law for either the witness or intoxicated student. However, if the witness or intoxicated student agrees to a timely completion of recommended education/intervention activities, assessment and/or treatment, an official conduct record will not be created. Instead the student will be mandated an educational/intervention course of action which will be recorded as part of a conduct file and considered as conduct history which may be used in deciding future charges and sanctions, but not reported out (exception is for teacher candidates and residence hall staff candidates). If the student does not comply with the agreed upon terms, the Good Samaritan Policy has been violated and the student is subject to disciplinary action. If the student does not agree to the terms set forth by the Student Conduct Office, the student will be charged with a violation of the alcohol and/or drug policy and proceed through the conduct process. Further if a pattern of intoxication develops, the student may be subject to conduct action at the determination of the Director of Student Conduct or designee. See Alcohol and/or Other Drug Use Amnesty in Sexual and Interpersonal Violence Cases for more information.
The Campus Security Act also delineates what violations need to be reported. The offense definitions are excerpted from the Uniform Crime Reporting Handbook. The definitions of sex offenses are excerpted from the national incident-based reporting edition of the Uniform Crime Reporting Handbook (FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR)/National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) definitions).
Firearms and dangerous weapons of any type are not permitted on campus. Intentional use, possession or sale of firearms or other dangerous weapons by anyone is a violation of state law and College policy.
This act requires the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJS) to maintain a Sex Offender Registry that provides New Yorkers information about sex offenders living in their communities. Sex offenders in New York are required to notify the registry of any institution of higher education at which they are, or expect to be, whether for compensation or not, enrolled, attending or employed and whether such offender resides or expects to reside in a facility operated by the institution. Changes in status at the institution of higher education must also be reported to the registry no later than 10 days after such change.
SUNY Cortland is committed to creating and maintaining an educational environment free from all forms of sex discrimination including sexual misconduct. Any act involving sexual harassment, violence, coercion, and intimidation will not be tolerated. Specifically, SUNY strictly prohibits the offenses of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. Upon learning that an act of sexual misconduct has taken place, immediate action will be taken to address the situation, work with State and local law enforcement if appropriate, supporting the victim/survivor, and imposing sanctions on the accused pending adjudication of the incident.
Sexual assault or other victims of assault should be treated by medical personnel as soon as possible. It is recommended NOT to shower, wash, change clothes, comb hair, drink or eat, or do anything to alter physical appearance until after a physical examination has been completed. It is also recommended NOT to disturb the area where the crime occurred until a police investigation can take place. Preserve all physical evidence. If clothing has already been changed, save all of what was worn during the assault and do not wash items. Place each item in a separate paper bag, if possible. It is not recommended to use plastic bag.
This also includes any building or property owned or controlled by a student organization that is officially recognized by the college that supports or relates to the school’s educational purposes and is frequently used by students. This policy also covers conduct that takes place off-campus that may have a nexus to the college community. This applies to all educational, extracurricular, athletic, or other campus programs; all school-related activities including, but not limited to, student organizations (academic, Greek, multicultural, religious, service, social and support, sports and recreational); community organizations with students and/or faculty participation; and all other educational or extracurricular events hosted by or at the College.
These policies also apply to incidents occurring between individuals in varying types of relationships — students, faculty, staff, visitor, contracted employee, supervisor, subordinate, coach, student athlete or any combination thereof. These acts may be committed against an individual or against a group or organization and by a stranger, acquaintance, or someone with whom the victim has a social, romantic or intimate relationship. These acts may be committed by or against any individual, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity or expression.
New York state has clarified what is considered consent with regard to sexual activity. Sexual activity requires “affirmative consent” by all parties involved.
The State University of New York and SUNY Cortland are committed to providing options, support and assistance to victims/survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence and/or stalking to ensure that they can continue to participate in College-wide and campus programs, activities, and employment. All victims/survivors of these crimes and violations, regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, creed, age, disability, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, familial status, pregnancy, predisposing genetic characteristics, military status, domestic violence victim status, or criminal conviction, have the following rights regardless of whether the crime or violation occurs on campus, off campus, or while studying abroad. All students have the right to:
Options In Brief
Victims/survivors have many options that can be pursued simultaneously, including one or more of the following
Institutions are obligated to comply with a student’s reasonable request for a living and/or academic situation change following an incident of sexual or interpersonal violence. Pending resolution of the complaint, the accused student may be prohibited from contacting the reporting person and placed on interim suspension or otherwise denied access to the campus. The College may change the course schedule or residence assignment of the accused student (ref. Code of Student Conduct Section 12 Interim Sanctions). In the case of a non-student, the accused may be declared Persona-Non-Grata denying them access to the campus and campus activities otherwise afforded to the public. A student who has reported an act of sexual misconduct may request an academic accommodation or change in residence and will receive an appropriate and reasonable accommodation. These include a change in academic or work schedule, withdraw from or retake a class without penalty, access to tutoring services, and change in residence hall assignment. Off-campus students may be offered on-campus accommodations. The students and the college will need time to prepare for hearings. The College will conduct a timely review of all complaints of sexual harassment, sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence or stalking, where a review and resolution can generally be expected to take place within 60 calendars days from receipt of the complaint. See the Code of Student Conduct, Section 8.
Compliance with the provisions herein and in the Code of Student Conduct in no way violates the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) (Section 444 of the General Education Provisions Act (20 U.S.C. 1232g)).
For student conduct proceedings, students should expect that disciplinary proceedings will be handled fairly. All SUNY Cortland students accused of violating the Student Code of Conduct shall be granted the following due process rights:
SUNY Cortland also provides the following rights to reporting individual related to our conduct process. A reporting individual has the right:
Students and employees have the right to assistance from the University Police or other college officials in initiating legal proceedings in family court, civil court, or criminal court, including, but not limited to, obtaining and Order of Protection or, if outside of New York State, and equivalent protective or restraining order. Once obtained, Orders of Protection are kept on file in University Police.
SUNY Cortland employees who handle the intake of reports from students, employees, or others who report being victims of sexual harassment, dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking, provide the reporting individuals with written resources including their rights and options regardless of whether the offense occurred on campus. The written resources include information on counseling, health/medical, mental health, victim advocacy, legal assistance, and other services as needed for both victims within the institution and in the community. Also provided through the intake process is verbal and written information on protections and accommodations such as the availability of changes to academic, living, transportation and work situations, regardless of whether the individual chooses to report to law enforcement. Additionally, the Title IX website contains detailed information on resources, protections and accommodations.
The Domestic Violence in the Workplace Policy and Procedures is available online. Through Human Resources, “The College, to the fullest extent possible without violating any existing rules, regulations, statutory requirements, contractual obligation or collective bargaining agreements, will take all appropriate actions to promote safety in the workplace and respond effectively to the needs of victims of domestic violence.” This policy is distributed annually and the designated human resources office leadership staff, affirmative action officer, and all other university personnel designated to provide support for those in need of assistance shall complete the SUNY System Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence’s (OPDV) required training.
Alleged incidents of sexual harassment, dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking may be reported to a number of offices on campus including the Title IX Coordinator and/or the Student Conduct Office. Reports to the Student Conduct Office will be processed in accordance with the Code of Student Conduct. If the accused is a student, cases will be adjudicated through an Incident Review Meeting or a Student Conduct Hearing.
Sanctions
Sanctions for Code violations can include: warning; deferred residence hall suspension; residence hall suspension; residence hall dismissal; disciplinary probation; deferred suspension; disciplinary suspension; disciplinary dismissal; loss of privileges; restitution; mandated room reassignment; mandated counseling assessment; and/or discretionary sanctions such as community service, letters of apology, essay or research paper on assigned topic; disqualification from future housing selection process, program presentation, substance education program (ref. Code of Student Conduct, Section Eleven). In cases of sexual assault, the College will impose a minimum sanction of suspension. See Section Eleven G of the Code for available sanctions in the case of sexual assault, sexual harassment, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking.
Interim Sanctions
In certain circumstances, the Vice President for Student Affairs and/or their designee may impose a disciplinary suspension or other restrictions prior to the hearing: to ensure the safety and well-being of members of the community or preservation of College property; to ensure the student’s own physical or emotional safety and well being; or if the student poses a definite threat of disruption or interference with the normal operations of the College. Both the accused or respondent and the reporting individual shall, upon request, be afforded a prompt review, reasonable under the circumstances, of the need for and terms of an interim sanction, including potential modification, and shall be allowed to submit evidence in support of their request. In certain circumstances, the Director of Residence Life and Housing or their designee, at times in conjunction with the Title IX Coordinator or Deputy Title IX Coordinator, may impose a residence hall suspension, mandate room reassignment or other restrictions prior to the hearing.
Holds and Transcript Notations
When a student is dismissed for behavioral reasons, the notation “dismissed after a finding of responsibility for a Code of Conduct violation” will automatically be placed on the student’s academic transcript and remain there indefinitely. Likewise, when a student has been suspended, the notation “suspended after a finding of responsibility for a Code of Conduct violation” will be placed on their transcript. This notation is permanent for crimes of violence, hazing or other serious violations. For others, a request for the notation to be removed may be made after the period of suspension plus one year (ref. Code of Conduct and Related Policies, “College Record Notation Policy – Non-Academic Discipline.”)
For students who withdraw or leave SUNY Cortland prior to disposition of alleged policy violations, a Banner Hold (student record hold) can be implemented and annotation of “withdrew with conduct charges pending” will appear on the transcript.
SUNY Cortland is committed to raising awareness and knowledge about personal safety and responsibility on campus and, to that end, takes a multifaceted approach to educating and empowering its community. We offer awareness programs to raise the level of understanding of related topics, we provide ongoing prevention and awareness campaigns — a series of initiatives educating on those topics, primary prevention programs aimed at helping avert personal injury before it occurs, and risk reduction efforts to help identify and reduce at-risk behavior and scenarios that put one in harm’s way. We also offer bystander intervention education and training to empower people to get involved in preventing an at-risk or harmful situation from happening to someone else.
A bystander is someone other than the victim who is present when an act of dating violence, domestic violence, stalking or sexual assault is occurring or when a situation is occurring in which a reasonable person feels as though some protective action is required to prevent sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence or stalking. Bystanders, if active, can prevent harm or intervene with safe and positive options before a situation gets worse.
Examples of active bystander intervention include: not leaving an overly intoxicated person in a bar/party alone; walking a classmate to their car after class; calling police when a potentially violent situation is unfolding; not leaving an unconscious person alone (alerting an RA, EMS, campus police, etc.); or intervening when someone is being belittled, degraded or emotionally abused (walking victim away from abuser, contacting others for help, e.g., counseling center, RA).
To help prevent crimes, it is important to secure valuable belongings and be aware of one’s surroundings. To emphasize crime prevention awareness, campus educational programs, seminars, videos, posters, brochures, student newspaper articles, messages from administration, etc., address personal safety including rape/sexual assault, stalking, dating violence, domestic violence, substance use/abuse, importance of locking doors and windows, the “buddy” system, and fire and property safety.
This information also includes safety services such as the Late-Night Campus Shuttle, the Friday and Saturday Downtown Shuttle, counseling, mental health services, medical resources, and emergency services. Rape-facilitating drugs can be difficult or impossible to detect. Don’t drink what you don’t open yourself and don’t share drinks. Bring your own, get your own drink or go with someone who is getting it for you. Don’t leave your drink unattended, and don’t drink anything that has an unusual taste or appearance (e.g., salty taste, excessive foam, unexplained residue). Don’t mix alcohol with other drugs and watch out for friends!
The College provides information regarding sexual assault awareness, sexual harassment, stalking, dating violence and domestic violence to all incoming, first-year and transfer students during Orientation. The College also provides these awareness programs open to the entire campus community at the beginning of each school year. Awareness programs discuss the definition of affirmative consent, prohibited behaviors, options and resources for reporting individuals, amnesty policy, the Students’ Bill of Rights, grievance procedures and bystander intervention. In addition, Human Resources provides a policy statement and list of Resources for Domestic Violence in the Workplace to all employees. The College, to the fullest extent possible without violating any existing rules, regulations, statutory requirements, contractual obligations or collective bargaining agreements, will take all appropriate actions to promote safety in the workplace and respond effectively to the needs of victims of domestic violence. Visit the Human Resources Policies and Procedures page to learn more. In accordance with the New York state Governor’s Executive Order 19, SUNY Cortland employees are required to complete “Preventing Sexual Misconduct” training.
Domestic Violence and the Workplace Policy and Procedures - This document can be found on the Human Resources webpage under Policies and Procedures. Topics are covered during Workplace Violence portion of new employee orientation.
Domestic Violence Education - Programs have included workshops by community partner domestic violence professionals and One Love Foundation Escalation Workshops. Yards for Yeardley is a campus-wide program held in April to raise awareness for domestic violence prevention and support for survivors.
One Love Foundation Escalation Workshops are provided for staff and students to learn recognize the signs of and prevent abusive personal relationships.
Behind the Post Workshops - are provided for students to learn the particular impact of social media on the health of relationships, and to learn the warning signs of unhealthy or abusive relationships.
Silent Witness Program – A place on the University Police website where people can anonymously report a crime
Operation Lockout – An anti-theft program in the residence halls that shows students how easy it is to become a victim of crime and simple steps to help preserve safety.
Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) teaches realistic defense tactics and techniques taught by nationally certified RAD instructors.
Students Active for Ending Rape (SAFER)– A student organization committed to educating the campus and raising awareness of and preventing sexual assault.
Take Back the Night March – Held in the fall and in the spring, this march heightens awareness to help prevent sexual assault and also features a “speak out” against sexual assault.
YWCA’s Aid to Victims of Violence (AVV) - A crisis hotline and other resources for victims of sexual assault/rape, domestic, dating and other violence. Also produced a consent brochure distributed on campus as well as signed a memorandum of understanding with SUNY Cortland and has a representative on the It’s On Us Action Team. AVV staff hold hours on campus Monday-Friday at the Student Life Center.
Off-Campus Jurisdiction – SUNY Cortland’s policy allows for pursuing student conduct action against students who are involved in off-campus incidents that also violate College policy and/or federal, state, and/or local laws, statutes, or ordinances. Typically the campus reserves this prerogative for more serious or repeated misconduct.
Suspension/Dismissal – Students who are suspended or dismissed are not allowed to be on campus or at campus-sponsored events for any reason unless prior permission is given by the Vice President for Student Affairs.
Persona Non Grata (PNG) – An order of exclusion from campus to non-students who have demonstrated that their presence on campus would be a threat to the campus and/or campus members. Violators can be arrested for criminal trespass.
Evening and Weekend Shuttles including extended hours on the weekends with an evening shuttle from Main Street to campus.
Green Dot – A bystander intervention program provided for students and staff to learn how to help prevent incidents of sexual assault, relationship or domestic violence, stalking, and sexual harassment. The Green Dot Committee provides oversight for the implementation of Green Dot training for students, faculty, and staff as well as presentations in COR 101 classes, to student groups, and academic departments. We have a total of 261 students trained through our 6 hour training program.
It’s On Us Action Team – A representative group bringing the It’s On Us national campaign to the Cortland campus. Students, faculty and staff organize the sexual assault awareness programs, including Speak Out Stand Up video presentation in COR 101 classes, panel presentations examining the rape culture, awareness activities and tabling for Domestic Violence Awareness month, Sexual Assault Awareness Week, stall stickers (in bathrooms) including sexual violence, stalking and sexual harassment resource information, Safe Spring Break Fair among others. Each year we have an opening featured speaker about sexual violence prevention and education. The last few years we had speakers from Green Dot, Inc come to speak. The It's On Us page links the social media channels promoting awareness on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube and includes a video created and shared by Cortland students.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month – Residence hall programs, campus-wide pledge campaign, and campus-wide programming such as Take Back the Night March focus on sexual violence education. This included Jessica Luther and panel discussing sexual assault and sport culture and “It’s On Us” photo and tabling where people could take an online pledge and take a photo with the It’s On Us logo for the College website. Consent brochures were also distributed. RAD training was offered.
New Student Orientation - Includes presentations and programs on dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, domestic violence, and personal safety. It is an expectation that all new students attend a summer or fall new student orientation program. Included this year was “Tea and Consent” video (clean version) taking the sensitive topic of sexual consent and likening it to serving tea - an entertaining way to have a conversation about this subject from Blue Seats Studio (YouTube).
Blue Light Phone program – attached to a light pole or building, picking up the receiver automatically rings to University Police.
Campus Safety Advisory Committee (formerly University Police Advisory Board) – Charged with advising the president and chief of police on matters of campus security, public safety, and personal safety; review and suggest improvement in safety education programs; assess availability of counseling service for crime victims; review victim referral and campus response procedures for sexual assault situations; conduct ongoing assessment of the quality of campus personnel safety policies, practices, procedures and programs; and provide information to incoming students about sexual assault prevention measures, penalties, and related security procedures.
Sexual Assault Prevention Education – a series of online courses, offered to new and continuing students at both the undergraduate and graduate level, which emphasizes how to contribute to positive, productive, and safe campus community; reinforces critical lessons on how to prevent and respond to sexual assault, stalking, sexual harassment, and relationship violence among students; and covers topics including (but not limited to) building and maintaining healthy relationships, affirmative consent, bystander intervention, and available resources. We contracted for a faculty/staff module beginning Fall 2017.
3rd Millennium - An interactive online program providing students with insightful information regarding the use, misuse and abuse of alcohol and drugs. This training provides education on myths and misperceptions, alcohol volume, blood alcohol concentration, key strategies for drinkers and non- drinkers, alcohol and drug related laws and policies, and bystander intervention skills. The course also provides students with an opportunity to reflect on and consider changing their drinking habits.
New Student Planner – given at Orientation and includes information on Title IX (including information on prohibited behaviors and referral to the comprehensive Title IX website), Student Conduct, Counseling, University Police and more.
Title IX Coordinator is a full-time position. The Title IX Coordinator offers training to faculty, staff and student groups, developed a campus-wide handout, maintains the Title IX website, including a link to many campus and community resources including SUNY’s Sexual Assault and Violence Resources (SAVR) web-based tools designed to support college students and all New Yorkers looking for help. The College president distributed Title IX information to all students, faculty, and staff through campus-wide email distribution. In 2016, all employees were mandated to complete an online Title IX/Title VII education module. In addition, the campus has hired a Deputy Title IX Coordinator for Investigations and Training.
Message from the President – A letter and informational handout mailed to parents/guardians of all new students regarding alcohol use and its potential impact on their student’s success and how parents/guardians can support their student making healthy choices.
Residence Hall Resident Assistant Training topics include: conflict mediation; fire safety and evacuation protocol; sexual assault, domestic violence, sexual harassment, and stalking response and reporting; active shooter protocol; alcohol/other drugs safety and emergency protocol; mental health crisis protocols; Title IX, Violence Against Women Act, Title II, and FERPA.
Online Communities Program offered by University Police that shows the importance of protecting privacy while using social media networking Internet sites.
Civilian Ride Along program with a University Police Officer on routine patrol to gain first-hand knowledge of police procedures and operations.
Fatal Vision Program - demonstrates how quickly impairment can turn into potentially devastating consequences for anyone who drives while impaired by alcohol or other drugs. We have now obtained the pedal carts in addition to the goggles.
Stop Theft ID Computer Identification Program - An anti-theft and recovery program designed mainly for laptop computers.
Meet the University Police - University Police personnel discuss the professional role University Police Officers play on campus.
Crime Alerts (Timely Notification) – issued when there has been a crime on campus or in other areas of the community impacting students.
Additional programs and information are available through the Title IX Office, SAFER (Students Active for Ending Rape), the It’s On Us Action Team (c/o Vice President for Student Affairs Office), the YWCA AVV, and University Police.
For the purpose of this next section, conduct performed for a medical purpose does not violate the provisions of this section.
2018 | 2019 | 2020 | |
---|---|---|---|
Domestic Violence | 3 | 0 | 1 |
Dating Violence | 9 | 7 | 5 |
Stalking | 15 | 5 | 5 |
2018 | 2019 | 2020 | |
---|---|---|---|
Domestic Violence | 2 | 0 | 1 |
Dating Violence | 9 | 5 | 4 |
Stalking | 12 | 4 | 3 |
2018 | 2019 | 2020 | |
---|---|---|---|
Domestic Violence | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Dating Violence | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Stalking | 0 | 0 | 0 |
2018 | 2019 | 2020 | |
---|---|---|---|
Domestic Violence | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Dating Violence | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Stalking | 0 | 0 | 0 |
2018 | 2019 | 2020 | |
---|---|---|---|
Murder/Non-negligent Manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Negligent Manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Rape | 6 | 4 | 4 |
Fondling | 4 | 11 | 2 |
Incest | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Statutory Rape | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Robbery | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Aggravated Assault | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Burglary | 9 | 6 | 2 |
Motor Vehicle Theft | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Arson | 0 | 0 | 1 |
2018 | 2019 | 2020 | |
---|---|---|---|
Murder/Non-negligent Manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Negligent Manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Rape | 5 | 4 | 4 |
Fondling | 3 | 10 | 2 |
Incest | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Statutory Rape | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Robbery | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Aggravated Assault | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Burglary | 8 | 2 | 2 |
Motor Vehicle Theft | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Arson | 0 | 0 | 1 |
2018 | 2019 | 2020 | |
---|---|---|---|
Murder/Non-negligent Manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Negligent Manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Rape | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Fondling | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Incest | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Statutory Rape | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Robbery | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Aggravated Assault | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Burglary | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Motor Vehicle Theft | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Arson | 0 | 0 | 0 |
2018 | 2019 | 2020 | |
---|---|---|---|
Murder/Non-negligent Manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Negligent Manslaughter | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Rape | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Fondling | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Incest | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Statutory Rape | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Robbery | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Aggravated Assault | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Burglary | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Motor Vehicle Theft | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Arson | 0 | 0 | 0 |
When a hate crime is reported, it will be labeled with the following categories of prejudice: R=race; G-gender; REL=religion; SO=sexual orientation; GI=gender identify; NO=National Origin, E=ethnicity; and/or D=disability. In addition to the criminal offenses listed on the chart, the following crimes need to be reported if they are hate crimes: larceny-theft; simple assault; intimidation; destruction, damage, vandalism of property, making graffiti, or any other crime involving bodily injury. In 2018, 2019 and 2020 there were no crimes identified as hate crimes.
2018 | 2019 | 2020 | |
---|---|---|---|
Liquor Law Violations (does not include DWI) | 16 | 4 | 0 |
Drug Law Violations | 41 | 30 | 5 |
Illegal Weapons possession | 1 | 0 | 0 |
2018 | 2019 | 2020 | |
---|---|---|---|
Liquor Law Violations (does not include DWI) | 0 | 2 | 0 |
Drug Law Violations | 21 | 23 | 4 |
Illegal Weapons possession | 1 | 0 | 0 |
2018 | 2019 | 2020 | |
---|---|---|---|
Liquor Law Violations (does not include DWI) | 253 | 119 | 104 |
Drug Law Violations | 80 | 51 | 47 |
Illegal Weapons possession | 0 | 1 | 0 |
2018 | 2019 | 2020 | |
---|---|---|---|
Liquor Law Violations (does not include DWI) | 240 | 108 | 99 |
Drug Law Violations | 57 | 46 | 37 |
Illegal Weapons possession | 0 | 1 | 0 |
2018 | 2019 | 2020 | |
---|---|---|---|
Liquor Law Violations (does not include DWI) | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Drug Law Violations | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Illegal Weapons possession | 0 | 0 | 0 |
2018 | 2019 | 2020 | |
---|---|---|---|
Liquor Law Violations (does not include DWI) | 9 | 0 | 1 |
Drug Law Violations | 1 | 0 | 6 |
Illegal Weapons possession | 0 | 0 | 0 |
2018 | 2019 | 2020 | |
---|---|---|---|
Liquor Law Violations (does not include DWI) | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Drug Law Violations | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Illegal Weapons possession | 0 | 0 | 0 |
2018 | 2019 | 2020 | |
---|---|---|---|
Liquor Law Violations (does not include DWI) | 31 | 3 | 0 |
Drug Law Violations | 12 | 7 | 1 |
Illegal Weapons possession | 1 | 0 | 0 |
SUNY Cortland’s fire log is maintained and available by contacting University Police. What follows is a chart of Department of Education reportable fires in the residence halls for 2017, 2018 and 2019 including an abbreviation key. Cases of arson would also be reported in the crime section of this document.
Firearms (including BB, pellet and paintball), weapons, ammunition, firecrackers, explosives, harmful chemicals or any other type of flammable materials are not to be stored or used in or around the residence halls.
Internal combustion engines are prohibited within the buildings. No combustible materials are permitted in the residence halls. Each campus room is permitted one refrigerator that must be UL-approved with three-pronged plus, tight fitting door gasket and unfrayed feeder line. The maximum size for student refrigerators is 5.0 cubic feet. Microfridge units, either available for rent from the Auxiliary Services Corporation (ASC) or personally owned, combine a refrigerator, freezer and microwave in one unit and are the only microwave units approved for use in student rooms. Refrigerators must be inspected by a staff member as students check into their residence hall. SUNY Cortland became tobacco free in January 2013. There are no longer any designated smoking areas.
Fire code door decoration requirements allow two 4-inch by 6-inch photos, two door tags, one dry erase board (tripled rooms may have three photos and three door tags). Candles or incense of any type are not permitted in student rooms or apartments due to the potential fire threat they post to all students living in the community. This includes any decorative or fragrant candles. Because of the danger of fire, candles and any kind of open flame (including charcoal, propane, grills, stoves and incense) cannot be allowed in the residence halls. The use of candles for religious observance may be permitted under controlled circumstances through the director of Residence Life and Housing. For the safety of all residents, use and/or possession of these appliances/items will not be allowed in any of the residence halls: wall tapestries, curtains, heaters, hot pots, sun lamps, any lamps with plastic shades (i.e., “octopus” lights) refrigerators exceeding five cubic feet, any other electrical appliance used for cooking or preparing food (Foreman grills/ovens, propane grills), hot plates, potpourri pots, electric coils, lava lamps, toaster ovens, air conditioners, microwave ovens, electric blankets, electric percolators and drip coffee pots. Students can have UL approved coffee pots with built-in automatic shut-offs and cool air vaporizers. All extension cords used at SUNY Cortland must have a surge protector. Regular extension cords, zip cords, adapters, 3-way taps, orange heavy cords, damaged cords or wires are prohibited.
Building |
Assembly Space |
Detection Type |
Sprinkler or Fire Suppression (Y/N) |
Fire Alarm Sound |
Strobe Lights (Y/N) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Alger Hall |
Front of Higgins near Shea |
Heat/Smoke |
Y |
Voice |
Y |
Bishop Hall |
Quad area near Shea |
Heat/Smoke |
Y |
Bell |
Y |
Casey Tower |
West side of bldg. near Broadway |
Heat/Smoke |
Y |
Bell |
N |
Cheney Hall |
Front lawn of Brockway |
Smoke |
Y |
Bell |
N |
Clark Hall |
Behind Fitzgerald |
Heat/Smoke |
Y |
Voice |
Y |
DeGroat Hall |
Front lawn of Brockway |
Heat/Smoke |
Y |
Voice |
Y |
Dragon Hall |
West side or Quad near Bishop |
Heat/Smoke |
Y |
Voice |
Y |
Fitzgerald Hall |
Behind Fitzgerald |
Heat/Smoke |
Y |
Bell |
Y |
Glass Tower |
Neubig lawn |
Heat/Smoke |
Y |
Bell |
Y |
Hayes Hall |
Quad area near Hendrick |
Heat/Smoke |
Y |
Bell |
Y |
Hendrick Hall |
Quad area near Hayes |
Heat/Smoke |
Y |
Voice |
Y |
Higgins Hall |
Front of Alger near Bishop |
Heat/Smoke |
Y |
Voice |
Y
|
Leadership House |
Water Street near Neubig |
Smoke |
Y |
Horn |
Y |
Randall Hall |
South and southwest lawns |
Heat/Smoke |
Y |
Bell |
N |
Shea Hall |
Quad area near Bishop |
Heat/Smoke |
Y |
Bell |
Y |
Smith Tower |
West side of bldg. near Broadway |
Heat/Smoke |
Y |
Bell |
N |
West Campus |
Recreation Building or bus stop depending on building location |
Smoke |
In common area of apartments to provide egress |
Bell |
Y |
In addition, SUNY Cortland has student sleeping quarters at Campus Huntington and Antlers (the Raquette Lake facilities), and the Brauer Field Station in Albany. All sleeping quarters are equipped with First Alert smoke detectors, either battery or hardwired. There are fire extinguishers in every building, and strict fire safety/evacuation procedures are part of the mandatory orientation for all facility users. There are also carbon monoxide detectors in all of the residence halls.As residence halls are rehabilitated, special attention is given to fire safety systems including sprinkler systems. SUNY Cortland is also incorporating Safe-T-elementTM upgrades (electrical coil stovetops) and Safe-T-sensorTM devices (for microwave ovens) as they upgrade appliances. Blue Light phones and residence hall door phones are connected directly to University Police. All fires need to be reported to the County 911 Center or University Police 607-753-2111. Dialing 911 from a campus phone will ring into University Police.
Evacuation procedures and assembly spaces for each building are provided in SUNY Cortland’s Emergency Action Plans. This document can be retrieved at the Environmental Health and Safety Office webpage “Programs, Policies and Procedures.” Special procedures are in place for evacuating students with disabilities. These procedures are disseminated via campus-wide email each semester and posted in each building. In the residence halls, students are expected to leave the facility immediately after the fire alarm is activated. They are instructed to not use elevators and particular stairwells (center stairwells in low rise halls). Staff members are expected to leave at the time of the alarm and make cursory checks of floors and wings as they progress down to the main floor of a hall. Moreover, staff members assume responsibilities such as calling the elevators to the ground floor and securing the outside doors to prohibit students from reentering the hall as they wait for the fire department to determine the cause of the alarm activation. Staff members report to University Police and the local fire department any special needs or issues they observe while evacuating the facility. Once the facility is deemed safe, staff members check rooms to verify that evacuation protocol has been observed by students. Specific evacuation procedures and staff responses are outlined in the Residence Life and Housing Staff manual. In 2018, a total of 216 fire drills were held on campus. In 2019, a total of 213 fire drills were held on campus.
The Environmental Health and Safety Office has the following responsibilities under Emergency Action Plans: 1) reviewing and updating the safety standard; 2) evaluating the standard’s effectiveness; 3) providing or coordinating Emergency Action Plan training; 4) reporting fires, emergencies and related issues to the appropriate agencies; 5) providing information about this standard and specific responsibilities to employees; and 6) responding to or assisting with other campus emergencies.
Supervisors will assist with efforts to provide Emergency Action Plans training to employees.
Students have responsibility for reporting fires and other emergencies, correcting or reporting unsafe conditions and observing evacuation procedures and protocol for other campus emergencies. University Police has responsibility for assisting with fire drills and emergency evacuations, reporting fires and emergencies to appropriate agencies, and responding or assisting with other campus emergencies.
Employees have responsibility for reporting fires and other emergencies, correcting or reporting unsafe conditions, and observing evacuation procedures and protocol for other campus emergencies.
Visitors have responsibility for observing evacuation procedures and protocol for other campus emergencies.
All faculty, staff and students are expected to familiarize themselves with the evacuation plan for the buildings which they occupy including the identified assembly places. Evacuation routes are posted in the hallways on every floor. In the residence halls, students are instructed at the opening meeting and other floor/wing meetings on evacuation procedures. Programs are also presented in the residence halls on various safety issues including fire safety. Students are reminded about fire evacuation procedures during hall meetings, floor meetings, or after problems occur during fire drills and accidental activations of the alarm. In addition, all first-year students receive a fire safety brochure, and some first-year students receive a fire safety presentation component in a COR 101 class. The resident assistant (RA) on duty each Sunday completes a Fire Safety Report that includes inspections of fire extinguishers, exit signs, detectors, doors, pull stations, and emergency lights within their residence halls. Work requests are subsequently submitted to address items that require corrective action. In addition, student rooms are thoroughly inspected during Thanksgiving, winter, and spring breaks as well as during health and safety inspections in September and March. State fire also completes a residence hall inspection in late September/early October. Incidentals such as misuse of extension cords, candles, and small appliances with automatic shut- off devices are scrutinized. Any “illegal” item found during an inspection is confiscated and, in some instances, students may be referred to the Student Conduct Office. Employees receive Emergency Action Plans training when they are initially assigned to a position and annually thereafter. Employees also receive training when certain responsibilities and aspects of this plan change. This training will include protocol for reporting fires, procedures for evacuating a building, use of fire extinguishers, and how to respond to other emergencies. Students receive this training during the beginning of the fall semester or orientation sessions. Copies of the Emergency Action Plan and the SUNY Fire Safety Report are available through SUNY Cortland’s Environmental Health and Safety Office webpage.