What Happens When a Rape Is Reported to the Office of Community and Ethical Standards
- Upon learning of a rape, the dean of students (or his/her designee) will contact you to offer the services of several Student Affairs departments, including Community and Ethical Standards. Any information you provide will be kept in the strictest confidence.
- In the event you want the University to pursue disciplinary action, you will be asked to provide a written report of the incident. That information will be forwarded to the director of community and ethical standards, who will start University disciplinary processes. You will be invited, but not required, to meet with the director in order to further discuss University judicial procedures. Remember that information regarding student discipline is maintained as a confidential record.
- When available information has been reviewed by the director, sanctions may be imposed. If the director recommends an interim suspension, eviction (from housing), suspension (from the University) or expulsion (from the University), an administrative hearing may be scheduled.
- You will have the option to attend the administrative hearing and provide testimony regarding the attack. Community and Ethical Standards will attempt to make special accommodations for testifying if you are not able to face the accused. You will be listened to and treated with respect. You may have a friend, counselor or support person present during the hearing. All hearings are closed to the public and are confidential.
When you report a rape to the Office of Community and Ethical Standards, the staff is required by law to inform the Clemson University Police Department. However, reporting this crime to the CUPD in no way obligates you to press charges or testify in court. Even if you do not want to press charges, we strongly encourage you to contact the police for immediate help. You may discontinue the involvement of Community and Ethical Standards and any other police or legal services at any point.