Annual Security Report

Introduction

The Department of Security & Safety publishes the Annual Security Report each year.  The report is distributed to all potential students and employees.  All current students, faculty and staff are emailed information that briefly describes the content of the report and also the exact Internet address where it can be found: http://www.bemidjistate.edu/offices/security/annual_report/.  Printed copies of the report can be obtained from Admissions, Deputy Hall, Room 102, Human Resources, Deputy Hall, Room 350, or at the Department of Security & Safety, Walnut Hall.  The report contains information regarding campus safety and security as required by the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act. 

Pursuant to the Act, the Department of Security & Safety monitors criminal activity and publishes this report containing a three-year statistical history of select crimes or incidents that occur.  The statistics are gathered from four specific geographic areas; 1) campus including residence halls, 2) residence halls, 3) public property that is adjacent to Campus, 4) non-campus university property or university sanctioned buildings or property.

Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act

The federal Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act 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.

Information regarding individuals on the registered sex offenders' list can be obtained from the Bemidji Police Department, 613 Minnesota Avenue NE, 333-9111, and from the Minnesota Department of Corrections web site http://www.corr.state.mn.us, or you can follow the link to the DOC web site from the Department of Security & Safety home page http://www.bemidjistate.edu/offices/security/ (Resources tab).

Department of Security & Safety

The Department of Security & Safety at Bemidji State University is recognized as the primary campus department responsible for providing security services for students, faculty, staff and campus visitors.  The department is comprised of fulltime professional and part-time paraprofessional officers.  Security officers are NOT licensed police officers and do not possess the power of arrest as defined by Minnesota State Statute, but have been granted the authority by the University President to enforce University policy, which is not inconsistent with federal, state or local law, and to make citizens arrests when necessary.

The Bemidji Police Department provides fully licensed police protection for Bemidji State University.  The Department of Security & Safety has developed a working relationship with the Bemidji Police Department that allows for immediate response to all crimes, emergencies or requests for service generated by the campus.  On occasion, the Department of Security & Safety works with other law enforcement agencies such as the Beltrami County Sheriff's Department, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, the Paul Bunyan Drug Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Minnesota State Patrol.

It is the policy of Bemidji State University to report all criminal activity to the Bemidji Police Department by reporting incidents directly to their office or to the Department of Security & Safety.  All crimes or potential crimes that are reported to the Department of Security & Safety will be forwarded to the Bemidji Police Department.  It is also the University's position that all campus community members are responsible for reporting any criminal activity they become aware of to the Department of Security & Safety, Walnut Hall, 755-3888, or the Beltrami County Law Enforcement Center, 333-9111 (emergency 911).

Bemidji State University urges all campus entities that are excluded from mandatory reporting, such as professional mental health counselors and pastoral counselors, to advise clients who are victims of crime to report those incidents to campus or local law enforcement authorities, and to report confidential information used strictly for statistical purposes to the Department of Security & Safety.

Access and Safety of Campus Facilities

Access to all Bemidji State University buildings and facilities are restricted to normal business hours, which is generally from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Monday through Friday during the academic year.  Access during summer months and break periods may vary.  Use of Bemidji State University facilities is intended for students, faculty, staff, and authorized visitors.  Persons not associated with the University may be asked to leave campus and are subject to legal process if non-compliant.

Access to facilities after normal business hours is allowed only by special approval of the individual responsible for a specific space.  The individual using a specific space outside of normal business hours must possess verifiable proof of approval.  All other use of Bemidji State University facilities outside of normal hours of operation must be approved, and scheduled by the Scheduling Office, Hobson Memorial Student Union, 755-3760.  

Access to residence halls is restricted to residents and guests only.  Hours of open access for individual residence halls are governed by the Department of Residential Life and may vary by specific residence hall.  Contact the Department of Residential Life, 755-3750 for further information.

Although the Department of Security & Safety routinely patrols all campus facilities, it is impossible to maintain a continuous presence in all facilities at all times.  Students, faculty, staff and visitors are urged to take appropriate steps to insure their own personal safety.  Please report suspicious individuals and activities or hazardous conditions immediately to the Department of Security & Safety, 755-3888.  Take advantage of the escort service provided by the Department of Security & Safety which is available 24 hours a day.

The Department of Security & Safety works closely with the campus Physical Plant Office regarding security considerations of facilities.  If you encounter what you believe is a safety or security deficiency regarding Bemidji State University facilities, contact the Department of Security & Safety, 755-3888 and/or the Physical Plant Office, 755-3988.  The Physical Plant Office and the Department of Security & Safety conduct annual campus inspections of campus facilities.

Crime Reporting Procedures/Policy

All students, faculty, staff and campus visitors are urged to report any crime they become aware of to the Department of Security & Safety and/or the Bemidji Police Department, (non-emergency) 333-9111, (emergency) 911.

Individuals reporting to the Department of Security & Safety who also wish to file a complaint with the Bemidji Police Department will be provided assistance in making that contact.  In addition, if the Department of Security & Safety becomes aware that a crime has been committed, University policy requires this information be forwarded to the Bemidji Police Department in a timely manner.

For on-campus emergencies, dial 911.  Emergency services will immediately be dispatched from local agencies to your location, and that information will also be relayed to the Department of Security & Safety who will also dispatch personnel to the incident location.

University's Response to Crime Reports

All reported incidents of criminal activity will be investigated.  The Department of Security & Safety, or any other authorized local, state or federal law enforcement authority may conduct these investigations.

The Director of Security & Safety classifies reports, in conjunction with the appropriate law enforcement agency according to the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Definitions.

When alleged perpetrators are identified as students, the case will be forwarded to the University Conduct Officer for investigation and appropriate action.  Criminal investigation, arrest and prosecution can occur independently, before, during, or after the campus judicial process.

The Department of Security & Safety will issue a timely warning to members of the campus community in cases of reported murder, sex offenses, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, motor vehicle theft, arson and any hate crimes (crimes manifesting evidence of prejudice based on race, religion, sexual orientation, gender of ethnicity) of murder, forcible rape or aggravated assault, in cases where the Director of Security & Safety (or the Director's designee) determines there is a continuing threat to the University community.

Timely Warnings

If the Department of Security & Safety receives information that a crime has been committed that may pose a continuing threat to the safety of any campus member, a "Security Alert" will be issued. Security Alerts are distributed by the Department of Security & Safety for the purpose of informing the campus community of a potentially dangerous condition that may affect their personal safety.  The alert contains information regarding an incident that will allow campus community members to take the proper personal safety measures necessary to insure their individual safety.  The alert may also contain a request for information regarding an incident.

Security Alert's will be posted on bulletin boards throughout campus and may also be found on the web at: http://www.bemidjistate.edu/offices/security/alerts/.  Security Alert's will remain posted as long as it is determined a threat exists, or will be removed after thirty days if no similar incidents occur.

Emergency Response and Evacuation Procedures

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Bemidji State University has several methods of mass notification which are utilized for emergency purposes only.  Upon confirmation of a significant emergency or dangerous situation involving an immediate threat to the health or safety of University members, it is the policy of the Department of Security & Safety to make every effort available to contact every student, staff, faculty and visiting members of the University unless issuing a notification will compromise the efforts to contain the emergency.

Bemidji State University is contracted with Blackboard Connect (Connect-ED), an Emergency Notification System.  The multimodal Connect-ED service allows BSU officials the ability to send emergency voice messages via:  landline, cellular telephone, and e-mail messages when circumstances dictate an alert to issue.  Officials authorized to activate Connect-ED are:  the Vice President for Finance & Administration, Vice President for Student Development & Enrollment, Vice President of Academic Affairs, and the Director of Security & Safety or his/her designees. 

All Students, Faculty and Staff are automatically enrolled in Connect-ED.   The information collected and imputed into the Connect-ED system is extracted from registration records individuals provided upon entry to BSU. (Individuals are responsible for providing accurate data.  The University assumes no liability or responsibility for improper or outdated data).  The Connect-ED system is part of the University's overall campus emergency plan.

Bemidji State University also utilizes an "Informer" system that acts like a public address system.  This system is activated from the Department of Security & Safety office and is located in several academic buildings.  The University continues to install the informer system in campus buildings and will do so until all buildings become equipped.

The Department of Security & Safety also maintains and activates a list of designated telephone numbers (emergency calling tree).  The telephone numbers have been identified as an emergency contact for various departments/buildings throughout campus.

All three notification systems along with Bemidji State University's evacuation procedures are tested independently several times a year.  During Minnesota's Severe Weather Awareness Week a full scale test of all emergency notification systems on campus is conducted.   For more information on Emergency Prepardness and evacuation procedures, go to the link below:  http://www.bemidjistate.edu/offices/security/emergency_preparedness

Missing Persons

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Incidents of missing persons at Bemidji State University should be reported immediately to Department of Security & Safety.  In situations where the missing person is a residence hall student, reports should be directed to staff members at the Department of Residential Life, who in turn will report this to the Department of Security & Safety.

The 2010 Bemidji State University Housing & Dining Services Application will include a statement and space for students to provide a confidential contact person to be notified in the case that the student is determined to be missing.  The statement on the Application reads:

"You have the option, and are encouraged, to provide a confidential person and phone number to be contacted in the event that you are determined to be missing for 24 hours (for students under 18 years of age and not emancipated, a parent or guardian must be notified).  Only authorized campus officials and law enforcement officers in furtherance of a missing person investigation may have access to this information.  Regardless of whether you provide an emergency contact person, missing person reports will immediately be referred to BSU Security & Safety and local law enforcement will be notified if you are determined to be missing for 24 hours.

BSU Department of Residential Life Emergency Procedures includes the following statement:  "BSU Security & Safety will be notified immediately in all situations related to a missing student."  Staff members from both the Department of Residential Life and the Department of Security & Safety will initiate an investigation of the missing student and involve local law enforcement as deemed appropriate or if the student has been missing for 24 hours.  If the missing student has provided an emergency contact, that person will be notified in the event that the student is missing for 24 hours.

Preparation of Crime Statistics

It is the policy of Bemidji State University that the Department of Security& Safety is recognized as the office responsible for the collection and publication of crime statistics as required by the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act.  Statistics in this report are gathered from the following sources:  Security & Safety Incident Reports, Beltrami County Law Enforcement Records, University Conduct Officials, Campus Security Authorities and Third Party Anonymous Reports.

Statistical information is gathered in four different categories; 1) On-campus (includes residence halls), 2) Residence Halls (subset of on-campus), 3) Non-campus building or property (Center for Research and Development and Hobson Forest) and, 4) Public property that borders campus.  In addition, for each of the categories listed above, separate statistics are included for crimes classified as hate crimes by the Uniform Crime Reporting system.  Hate crimes are reportable crimes where it has been determined that the crime was motivated by a victim's race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity or disability.

The statistical information that is required to be published includes:

• Homicide
  • Murder and Non-negligent manslaughter
  • Negligent manslaughter
• Sex Offenses
  • Forcible
  • Non-forcible
• Robbery
• Aggravated Assault
• Burglary
• Motor Vehicle Theft
• Arson

In addition to the aforementioned crimes, statistics are kept for the following crimes when it is determined that they were motivated by a victim's race, gender, religion, sexual orientation ethnicity or disability.

• Larceny-Theft
• Simple Assault
• Intimidation
• Destruction, Damage or Vandalism of Property
• Any Other Crime Involving Bodily Injury

The law further requires that statistical information for the following categories of arrests or referrals for campus disciplinary action if an arrest was not made:

• Liquor Law Violations
• Drug Law Violations
• Illegal Weapons Possession

Note:  In order to be included as a statistic, a referral for one of the three categories listed above must also constitute a violation of law.

Monitoring and Recording Activity at Off Campus Locations

All Bemidji State University organizations that are off campus are monitored by the Bemidji Police Department, which shares information with the Department of Security & Safety.

The Department of Security & Safety includes the off campus student organizations' crime statistics in its annual report under the classification of "Non-campus Building or Property".  Currently there are no off campus student organizations recognized by the University.

Campus Security Authorities

The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act requires the declaration of "Campus Security Authorities".  Campus Security Authorities are defined as, "An official of an institution who has significant responsibility for student and campus activities."  Campus Security Authorities are persons that reports should be made to for the purpose of making timely warnings and the annual statistical disclosure.  Bemidji State University has determined that the following positions fit the criteria:

President and Vice Presidents, Faculty Advisors to student groups and organizations, Athletic Coaches and Trainers, Campus Security Members, Deans, Student Development Officials, Residential Life Staff Members and other campus officials who have significant responsibilities for student and campus activities.

Crime Prevention and Personal Safety

The Department of Security & Safety presents crime prevention and personal safety programs throughout the academic year.  These programs are designed to inform the campus community regarding security procedures and practices, and to encourage responsibility for personal safety.  The programs further present personal safety and crime prevention techniques.  The programs are presented by a certified Campus Crime Prevention Professional who is a full time staff member with the Department of Security & Safety.  Programs are offered one or two times each semester as free university presentations.  In addition, the program can be scheduled by request by contacting the Assistant Director of Security & Safety, Walnut Hall, 755-3888.

Responsible Men Responsible Women

Responsible Men Responsible Women is a University program to prevent violence, privacy violations, and harassment; and to foster a safer more civil campus and promote community responsibility. This program was initiated in 1992.

Personal Safety Recommendations

Security & Safety staff members are available to assist you in protecting yourself by providing regular foot and/or vehicle patrols.  Additionally, the Department of Security & Safety publishes and distributes security and safety related materials throughout campus.  However, only you can protect yourself by being aware of your surroundings and taking appropriate precautions to avoid being the victim of a crime.

Call for an Escort!  The Department of Security & Safety office located in lower Walnut Hall, 755-3888, is always staffed and ready to assist you however they can.  Escort services are normally available from 4 PM to 7 AM.

Residence Safety

• Lock your door - even if you are only going out for a short time or only going a short distance.  It only takes seconds to walk into your open room and steal your valuables.
• Always lock your door when you are asleep.  You are also encouraged to lock your door when you are awake.
• Do not prop open locked exterior building doors.  These doors are locked for your protection and the protection of other residents.
• Never open exterior doors of the building for strangers or non-residents.  Always escort your guests to and from the main entrance doors.
• Do not leave your keys lying around in public places or in your jacket pocket when you are not wearing it.
• Do not put your name and address on key rings as they may be used to steal you property if found by the wrong person.

Property Protection

• Participate in Operation Identification.  Contact the Department of Security & Safety, 755-3888 for further information.
• Personal property (purses, brief cases, calculators, etc.) should not be left unattended.  Take such items with you if you are leaving the office, classroom or residence hall room.
• Lock your door whenever you leave your room or office.  Always lock your car doors.
• Protect all valuables in your room or office.  Do not leave valuables in plain view.
• Take valuables home with you during vacations.
• You are encouraged to open a savings or checking account rather than allow large sums of money to accumulate in your room.  If you open a checking account, remember the number of the last check written.  The theft of a single check can go undetected until a bank statement discloses a forgery.
• Utilize bike racks and always lock your bike.  There are several good anti-theft devices available and casehardened heavy locks and chains afford the best protection.

Vehicle Protection

• Always lock your car doors and never leave your keys in the vehicle.
• Try to park your car in well-lit areas.
• Avoid leaving property where its' visible, utilize your trunk if necessary.

Personal Safety

• Avoid walking alone at night.
• Refrain from taking short cuts, walk where there is plenty of light and traffic.
• Avoid walking and jogging alone after dark.  If you must travel alone at night, use the Department of Security & Safety's Escort Service (755-3888) to escort you to your on-campus destination or locations near campus.
• Walk along well-lit routes.
• Be alert to your surroundings.  If you suspect you are being followed, run in a different direction, go to the other side of the street and yell for help, or head quickly for a lighted area or a group of people.
• Have your keys ready when returning to you residence hall or apartment and keep personal or valuable items concealed and close to your body.
• Watch for suspicious persons in and around University buildings or parking lots.  Do not pursue them.  Immediately contact the Department of Security & Safety (755-3888).  Call the Department of Security & Safety if you should enter your room and find a stranger, regardless of the "cover story" supplied.
• If you see any suspicious activity or people on or near campus, call the Department of Security & Safety (755-3888).  Do not assume the person is a visitor or University staff member that you have not seen before.

Emergency Phones

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• There are six emergency "Blue Light" telephones installed on the University campus, and one in Diamond Point Park. These telephones are identified by a blue light and provide a direct telephone line to the Department of Security & Safety 24/7.
• All elevators on campus have an emergency phone located within them that provides a direct line to the Department of Security & Safety.

Crime Statistics for 2006, 2007, 2008

Hate Crime Statistics for 2006, 2007, 2008

The statistics below reflect crimes that have been classified as "Hate Crimes".  Hate Crimes are defined as crimes in which the victim is intentionally selected because of the actual or perceived race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or disability of the victim.

• 2008:  One (1) on-campus property damage characterized by religious bias
             One (1) non-campus public property bordering campus vandalism characterized by race bias
• 2007:  No (0) Hate Crimes Reported
• 2006:  No (0) Hate Crimes Reported

Campus Alcohol Policy and Enforcement

Bemidji State University prohibits the use of any alcoholic beverages on the campus.  This prohibition extends to Residence Halls, athletic facilities/events, and school activities, and applies to any person on University grounds, whether or not he or she is a member of the University community.  The only exceptions to this absolute prohibition are authorized laboratory experiments and sale and consumption in accordance with special licensing procedure provided by law.  Any such sale, possession, or consumption is strictly controlled and allowed only in those areas of campus specifically designated in the temporary license.

Any alcohol related violation of law that the Department of Security & Safety becomes aware of, will be referred to the Bemidji Police Department.  Violations of law regarding underage consumption or possession may, and frequently do result in prosecution.  In addition to any action taken by local law enforcement authorities, persons found in violation of the campus alcohol policy will be referred to the University Conduct Officer.

Campus Illegal Drug Use and Enforcement

Bemidji State University prohibits the illegal use, possession, sale, manufacture, or distribution of drugs or actions involving drugs that may involve medical or psychological hazards to individuals, or actions involving drugs that may lead to interference with the rights and privileges of others.

Any use of drugs on campus that is a violation of law that the Department of Security & Safety becomes aware of, will be referred to the Bemidji Police Department.  Violations of law regarding illegal drugs may, and frequently do result in prosecution.  In addition to any action taken by local law enforcement authorities, persons found in violation of the campus illegal drug policy will be referred to the University Conduct Officer.

Drug and Alcohol Education

Bemidji State provides alcohol and drug education and resources through its PIER 9 (Prevention, Intervention, Education, and Referral) program.   While the Center's PIER 9 program provides alcohol and drug prevention programs, including education, intervention and referral services, it also coordinates the broader University effort to address and stem alcohol and drug abuse.  Throughout the academic year, a Health Educator within the Student Health Services office presents alcohol and drug awareness programs.  For more information, contact Student Health Services, Birch Hall, 755-2053.

Campus Policy on Sexual Assault and Harassment

Bemidji State University's policy on sexual assault and harassment is governed by the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System's policy.  In support of the system policy, Bemidji State University reaffirms the policy that sexual assault and harassment will not be tolerated.  Every effort will be made to assure that all members of the University community are provided an atmosphere free from sexual assault and harassment.  To prevent sexual assault and harassment, educational efforts have been undertaken to inform employees and students of their responsibilities regarding such behavior, how to identify and eliminate potential sexual assault and harassment and what steps can be taken if instances of sexual assault and harassment are experienced.

Bemidji State University conducts a number of programs aimed at preventing sexual offenses and making the community aware of the potential of such crimes.  These programs include nightly security patrols of the campus, campus escorts, Security Alerts, and campus inspections designed to identify and correct facility and grounds deficiencies.  In addition, residence hall staff, the Department of Security & Safety, Health Services and the Counseling Center, provides educational programs pertaining to sexual assault awareness.  The University also conducts a sexual harassment program called "The Invisible Line" for faculty and staff members.

A guiding principle in the reporting of sexual assault is to avoid re-victimizing the sexual assault survivor by forcing the person into any plan of action.  Sexual assault survivors may contact any one of several Bemidji State university departments or community services for assistance.  The following resources provide immediate aid or on-going consultation for survivors of sexual assault.

Emergency Numbers

• Security & Safety: 755-3888
• Bemidji Police: 911
• Affirmative Action: 755-3966
• Counseling Center: 755-2024
• Health Services: 755-2053
• Rape Crisis Center: 1-800-708-2727

Procedure for Reporting Sexual Assault

(MnSCU Policy 1B.3.1, Sexual Violence Procedure, has been adopted by Bemidji State University for campus use.  Complete MnSCU 1B.3.1 procedure can be accessed at: www.mnscu.edu/board/procedure/1b03p1.html)

Persons with sexual violence complaints or knowledge of sexual violence incidents should contact any of the following BSU Offices to report behavior and/or to obtain detailed sexual violence procedure: 

Casey McCarthy
Director, Campus Security & Safety
Walnut Hall
755-3888

Linda Gilsrud
Affirmative Action Officer and Director of Human Resources
Deputy Hall
755-3966

Dr. Lisa Erwin
Vice President for Student Development & Enrollment
Deputy Hall
755-2075

Contact the Department of Security & Safety (755-3888) or the Bemidji Police Department (333-9111) as soon as possible after the offense.  Please remember it is important to preserve evidence.  Do not bathe, douche, use the toilet, or change clothing.  Note everything about the location.  If you have been raped, you should seek medical attention immediately regardless of whether you report the matter to the police.

Every attempt is made to maintain the anonymity of the sexual assault survivor.  Every attempt will be made not to release names to the media, unless requested by the sexual assault survivor.  Names and addresses of survivors are shared with the Bemidji Police Department.  The Department of Security & Safety will attempt to provide support and resources for sexual assault survivors.  Each report of sexual assault will be investigated in order to provide better protection for the survivor of a sexual assault and all members of the campus community.  Sexual assault survivors should be aware of the University's responsibility to release information regarding the fact that an assault occurred for the protection and safety of others.

The Department of Security & Safety is the office of official record for reports of sexual assault, as it is in all reported law violations.  Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to contact the Security Office to report any information regarding assaults.

Sexual assault survivors have the right to make anonymous (third-party) reports to the Department of Security & Safety.  Third party reports may prevent the University and the Bemidji Police Department from actively investigating the criminal activity.

Counseling and medical services are available both on and off campus.  If you are the victim of a sexual assault, Bemidji State University encourages you to contact one or more of the following:

• Counseling Center: 755-2024
• Sexual Assault Program: 444-9522 or 1-800-708-2727
• Affirmative Action: 755-3966
• Health Service: 755-2053
• North Country Hospital: 751-5430

If the Director of Security & Safety (or a designee) determines that a threat continues to exist for the campus community, information about the reported sexual assault will be reported to the community whether reported by a sexual assault survivor or through a third-party report.  As much detail as possible regarding the incident will be released, such as, location, date, time, and information that might help identify the assailant.  The Department of Security & Safety will inform the campus community of the reported sexual assault by posting "Security Alerts".

Each report will be taken as presented by the complainant.  Appropriate criminal classifications will be determined after a review of all the facts presented.

The University will take appropriate action to safeguard the survivor and, at the same time, protect the rights of the alleged perpetrator.  If the survivor of a sexual assault requests, the University will attempt to provide, if reasonably available, alternative housing for on-campus residents as well as a change in classes.

The University will normally not take any disciplinary action against a member of the campus community without a written complaint and the assistance of the complainant in the disciplinary process, unless the University determines there is a clear danger to the victim or the University community.

Campus Disciplinary Action

The University disciplinary process is an option for any person wishing to report a case of student misconduct or violation of the campus Code of Conduct.  In order for the University to proceed with the conduct process, a written complaint (whether by the victim or a third party) must be filed with the University Conduct Officer.  If the complaint is criminal in nature, it will be forwarded to the Department of Security & Safety.  The Department of Security & Safety will inform local law enforcement officials of the complaint.

Campus Disciplinary Action, Sexual Assault

There are different standards of proof in the University conduct proceeding than in the possible criminal action.  The University conduct proceeding determines whether the accused is responsible, or not responsible for his/her actions, while the criminal process determines if there will be limitations on the liberty of the accused.  As there are different standards and the purpose of each proceeding is different, Bemidji State University encourages students who are the victims of sexual assault to go forward with the University process.

Both the accuser and the accused are entitled to have others present (an advocate or advisor) during the disciplinary proceeding.  This person may not, however, speak in your place or ask questions of witnesses.

Both the accuser and the accused have the right to call a reasonable number of witnesses during the hearings to testify on their behalf.  The witnesses may be asked questions by either the accused or the accuser, and the board.

Both the accuser and the accused have the right to request in advance the names of witnesses and shall have the right to question witnesses during the hearing.

Both the accuser and accused shall be informed of the outcome of the University disciplinary proceeding concerning the complaint of a sexual offense.  This information should not be disclosed to the public generally.

Sanctions following a University disciplinary proceeding include but are not limited to:  expulsion, suspension and/or eviction from student housing.

Code of Student Conduct

The following information was taken directly from the Bemidji State University Code of Conduct, which is available in its entirety from the Student Development & Enrolment, Deputy Hall, 755-2075

The Code of Conduct governing the behavior of students of Bemidji State University:

• Insures the basic rights of individuals and reflects the practical necessities of the community, and
• Prohibits and limits acts which interfere with the basic purposes, necessities, or processes of the University, or with the rights of its members, and
• Reconciles the principles of maximum freedom and necessary order.

Statement of Responsible Behavior

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Students will adhere to federal, state, local, State University Board and Bemidji State University laws / regulations that govern individual actions and relationships among university members for the common good.  Students will work as honest and respectful partners with the University in fulfilling its academic and administrative mission and responsibilities, fulfilling their academic endeavors in an honest and forthright manner.  Students will speak and listen to others with care, seeking personal understanding and maintaining respect and civility.  Students will respect and protect the personal privacy, rights, and safety of others with regard to physical and sexual boundaries, living space, possessions, electronic accounts and academic endeavors. 

Behaviors that violate these responsibilities and may result in Student Conduct action are contained within the following Student Code of Conduct:

1. Violation of written policies or regulations contained in any official publication or administrative announcement of the MnSCU Board or Bemidji State University. This includes, but is not limited to, the State University Internal Rules, BSU Student Handbook, Policies and Procedures Manual, Residential Life Agreement terms, Residence Halls Agreement terms, Catalog, etc.
2. Violation of local, state, or federal law on University property, or off-campus when such violation of the law is directly related to the University Community.
3. Academic dishonesty, including, but not limited to, cheating and plagiarism. (See Academic Integrity Policy and Related Policies and Procedures in the BSU Student Handbook).
4. Disruption or obstruction of teaching, research, administration, disciplinary proceedings, or other University activities, including its public service functions on or off campus, or other authorized non-university activities when the conduct occurs on University premises.
5. Knowingly furnishing false information to the University or other similar forms of dishonesty in University-related affairs, including knowingly making false oral or written statements to any University Conduct Board or Student Conduct Officer.
6. Forgery, alteration, destruction, or misuse of University documents, records, identification cards, or papers. 
7. Failure to comply with directions of, or to present identification to, University officials or law enforcement officers acting in the performance of their duties. This includes failure to comply with conditions of sanctions resulting from previous University conduct action.
8. Unauthorized entry into or use of University facilities or equipment, or unauthorized possession, duplication, or use of keys to any university premises.
9. Use, possession or carrying of firearms (including, but not limited to, pistols, rifles, air guns, shotguns, or ammunition), incendiary devices, smoke devices, hand bills, dangerous knives, explosives, bows and arrows, or other dangerous weapons while on University owned or controlled property, or at University-sponsored or supervised activities, except by authorized law enforcement officers and other persons specifically authorized by the University. (Regarding recent new Minnesota "conceal and carry" gun legislation, it is specifically noted that MnSCU and BSU policy prohibit students from possessing or carrying a firearm while on University property, regardless of whether the student has a permit to carry a firearm, except as otherwise provided by MnSCU or BSU policy. The full MnSCU Policy may be accessed electronically at:  www.mnscu.edu/board/policy/521.html.)
10. Use, possession, or distribution of alcoholic beverages, except as permitted by law and University policy. (See Alcohol and Other Drug Policy.)
11. Unauthorized use, possession, manufacture, or distribution of any controlled substance or illegal drugs and / or drug paraphernalia. (See Alcohol and Other Drug Policy.)
12. Theft of, damage to, or unauthorized use of property of the University or property of any of its members or visitors.
13. Physical abuse, verbal abuse, threats, or harassment of a person including but not limited to stalking, defamation, intimidation or harassment through other persons, or use of electronic or other communication devices such as video, computers or telephones.
14. Conduct that threatens or endangers the health or safety of a person, to include oneself.
15. Engaging, individually or in concert with others, in sexual misconduct; i.e. non-consensual physical conduct of a sexual nature including but not limited to sexual physical abuse, rape or any other form of sexual assault, or threat of sexual violence.  Note: Consent does not exist when acts are committed by force, intimidation, coercion, or through use of authority, or the victim's mental or physical incapacity even if that lack of capacity is chemically self induced. The expectation is that consent is clear and mutual.
16. Engaging in brawling or fighting; disorderly conduct; disturbing any lawful assembly or meeting; or engaging in any offensive, obscene or abusive language, or in boisterous or noisy conduct reasonably tending to arouse alarm, resentment, or anger in others on University-owned or controlled property or at University sponsored or supervised activities.
17. Gambling for money or other things of value, except as permitted by law.
18. Hazing: An act which endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a person, subjects a person to public humiliation or ridicule, or which destroys or removes public or private property for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in a student group or organization. Hazing, whether occurring on or off campus, shall be considered a violation of this code.
19. Discrimination/Harassment. (In compliance with MnSCU policy 1B.1 and procedure 1B1.1, a separate investigative and decision making process has been established at Bemidji State University for review of complaints of discrimination and/or harassment. See Polices on Discrimination/Harassment.

The University reserves the right to review student behavior that occurs off campus if the behavior violates University policy and is of principle interest regarding the mission of the University.

The Annual Security Report

Bemidji State University reserves the right to change without notice any of the materials (information, requirements, regulations, procedures) published in this report.  Revisions are publicized to the University community through the Department of Security & Safety web site and take precedence over information in the printed edition.  It is the responsibility of members of the University community to take note of publicized changes on the website.  This report is not regarded as a contract and is subject to change without notice.