Policy on Sexual Assault, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, and Stalking

James Sprunt Community College does not tolerate behavior that results in sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking. Students on our campus have the right to live free of behaviors that interfere with students attaining their educational goals. Students who report sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking have the right to:

• Treatment with dignity and respect, not subjected to biased attitudes or judgments
• Not having past and irrelevant conduct discussed during any resulting proceedings
• Changes in academic situations, if possible
• All support services regardless of the choice to file a school or criminal complaint
• Submission of a written account of the incident and a victim-impact statement
• Having a person of choice, including legal counsel or an advocate, present throughout the proceedings, as set forth in the student code of conduct
• Having one’s identity protected, in accordance with legal requirements

Victims may request immediate transfer of classes or other steps to prevent unnecessary or unwanted contact or proximity to an alleged assailant. When possible, requests will be accommodated.

Rights of Accused

Students accused of sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking behaviors have rights on this campus. Those include:

• The right to know the nature and source of the evidence used in the hearing process
• The right to present witnesses and material evidence relevant to the case
• The right to an advisor to aid in the preparation and presentation of the case
• Access to services from the counseling or student service offices
• Consultation with a campus official on academic support services and referrals to community resources when appropriate.

Disciplinary Process

Disciplinary sanctions for violations of this protocol will be imposed in accordance with applicable James Sprunt Community College policies, including:

• No action
• Probation for one or more semesters
• Short or long-term suspension
• Expulsion from James Sprunt Community College and/or criminal prosecution simultaneously.

A hearing will be conducted by the Committee on Student Appeals. A group will be empaneled to hear cases and their decisions are final. The panel will be trained in procedures regarding listening to evidence, victim impact, and rules of procedure. James Sprunt Community College officially adopts the preponderance of the evidence standard for the disciplinary process.