PREVENTION
Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) classes are offered throughout the year at Western New England College. The RAD System is a program of realistic self-defense tactics and techniques for women and is a comprehensive, women-only course that begins with awareness, prevention, risk reduction and risk avoidance, while progressing on to the basics of hands-on defense training. Presentations about acquaintance rape are addressed throughout the year in floor programs in the residence halls. The use of alcohol and “date rape drugs” to assist in these crimes is highlighted.
WHAT TO DO IF A SEXUAL ASSAULT OCCURS
Immediately get to a safe place – and call Campus Police.
Campus Police will:
- Assist you in arranging for any hospital treatment or medical needs;
- Meet with you privately at a place of your choice on campus to take a
statement;
- Make every effort to maintain confidentiality and not prejudge you;
- Assist you in privately contacting counseling, safety, advising, and other
available resources, both on campus and in the community; and consider
your report seriously, regardless of your gender or the gender of the alleged
violator. We will fully investigate your report and will inform you of your |
options.
If you feel more comfortable talking with either a female or a male counselor or representative, we will do our best to accommodate your request. We will continue to be available for you — to answer your questions, explain the systems and processes involved, and are willing listeners.
PLEASE REMEMBER...
- Please do not shower, or change clothes, as this will destroy evidence.
- All reports are confidential. The victim’s name or address will not appear
anywhere in the report or report narrative if they wish to keep the
information confidential. It will simply say that a sexual assault was
reported, and a Sexual Assault Investigator assigned.
- If you do not wish to file a report with the department, you can still speak
with a department Sexual Assault Investigator. This investigator will be
able to explain in detail all of the options available to you.
- If you do not wish to speak with an investigator, we can call a victim
advocate who will explain in detail all of the options available to you.
Resources
If you decide not to report to Campus Police, PLEASE consider speaking with one of the following resources:
ON-CAMPUS RESOURCES
- Sexual Misconduct Advocate Response Team– 413-575-7194 (24 Hours Day)
or email Smart@ wnec.edu
- Health Services Kathy Reid - 782-1211
- Residence Life Beth Hill - 782-1317 (certified Rape Investigator)
- Counseling Services Wayne Carpenter, Nan Salky - 782-1221
- Campus Ministry - 782-1628
GREATER SPRINGFIELD RESOURCES
- Abuse and Rape Crisis- (24-hour hotline) 413-733-7100
- Baystate Medical Center 413-784-0000
- Holyoke Hospital 413-534-2592
- First Call United Way 413-737-2712
REGIONAL RESOURCES
- Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence 860-282-7899
- Maine Coalition for Family Crisis Services 207-941-1194
- Massachusetts Coalition for Battered Women’s Service Groups 617-248-0922
- New Hampshire Coalition Against Dom./ Sexual Violence 603-224-8893
- New Jersey Coalition for Battered Women 609-584-8107
- New York State Coalition Against Domestic Violence 518-432-4864
- Rhode Inland Council on Domestic Violence 401-467-9940
- Vermont Network Against Domestic Violence
and Sexual Assault 802-233-1302
NATIONAL RESOURCES
- National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Coalition Against Domestic Violence 303-831-9251
- National Sexual Violence Resource Center 1-877-739-3895
- Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
You may remain confidential and they will offer valuable assistance.
College Disciplinary Action
Western New England College strives to provide an environment that is free of violent acts. Violations of Western New England College’s Sexual Assault Policy will result in disciplinary action, which may include removal from the College. In accordance with the requirements of the Student Right-To-Know and Campus Security Act, in any campus judicial case alleging some form of sexual assault, the accuser and the accused are entitled to the same opportunity to have others present during disciplinary proceedings and both shall be informed of the outcome. The College will assist victims in every possible way to restore their sense of empowerment and personal safety. This includes, at a minimum, arranging for changes in class schedules and living situations, subsequent to an alleged sexual assault to the extent that they are reasonably available.
Criminal Investigation of a Sexual Assault
Contacting Western New England College residence hall staff member does not necessarily mean the student or employee must prosecute the assailant(s). Western New England College has staff trained in dealing with matters of this nature and can provide students or employees with advice and counseling about sexual assault. The choice belongs to the student or employee. Students and employees are asked to be aware that if they do not choose to press charges, other options are available for reporting the assault and seeking assistance. A criminal investigation will involve Springfield Police Department’s Sexual Assault Unit. These highly trained professionals have a close working relationship with campus police and local hospitals. Public Safety will assist the victim by providing for transportation, and by serving as advocates. Students and employees are reminded that this is not something they have to go through alone. A friend or support person can be with a student or employee during police interviews.