Individuals who wish to report an incident of sexual misconduct may do so in a variety of ways. The decision to file a formal report is not easily reached, and can be an overwhelming prospect for those affected by sexual misconduct. The University has created an online anonymous reporting option to make the process easier for students and employees who wish to file a report. On the File a Report page, individuals may note the difference between filing a report with Campus Public Safety, (to Bay Path directly) and with the Longmeadow Police Department. Once an individual has decided with whom they would like to file a report, a report may be easily completed online.
Alternatively, if an individual prefers to make a verbal report, they have the opportunity to do so by meeting with the Title IX Coordinator, a counselor, the school nurse, or a Public Safety officer. More information regarding verbal reports can be found on the Resources page.
Who to Report To:
There are many individuals and resources available on campus that students and employees may report an incident of sexual misconduct to. Individuals may file a formal report documenting an incident with:
- The Title IX Coordinator
- Campus Public Safety
- Longmeadow Police Department
The University is committed to responding to all reports of sexual misconduct in a timely and effective manner. The timeframe of when an individual should file a report of sexual misconduct is not limited in any way, however it is important to note that as time passes, it becomes more difficult to find crucial evidence. In light of this, all investigations of sexual misconduct are to be thorough yet efficient, with a resolution that is reasonable given the situation.
I Made a Report - Now What?
Filing a report is an important first step towards addressing an incident of sexual misconduct. The University acknowledges that it may be difficult to come forward; but, there are resources to assist in the process, beginning with the Title IX Coordinator. The University completes most investigations within 60 days.
Interim Measures/Remedial Action
Upon receipt of a report, the University may implement initial responsive or protective actions while an inquiry or investigation are underway. Interim measures/Remedial actions may include no contact orders, providing a campus escort, academic or work schedule adjustments, referral to counseling or medical services, on-campus housing accommodations and safety planning. The University will maintain as confidential any accommodations or protective measures, provided confidentiality does not impair the University’s ability to provide the accommodations or protective measures.
Inquiry, Investigation, Resolution
The University will address all reports of possible violations of the Sexual Misconduct and Civil Rights Policy. The process is overseen by the Title IX Coordinator, who works with two Deputy Coordinators, two investigators and a Responding Party Process Navigator. Upon receipt of a formal complaint, the Title IX Coordinator or a Deputy Title IX Coordinator will conduct an initial inquiry to determine any risk of harm to individuals or to the campus community. Steps will be taken to address those risks via interim measures or remedial action.
If the inquiry proceeds to an investigation because of the Reporting Party’s desire or the University deems it necessary to protect the safety of the campus, the Title IX Coordinator will assign an investigator to gather relevant information, including conducting interviews with the Reporting Party, the Responding Party and any witnesses who may be able to provide additional information.
A Title IX investigation is not a criminal process, although that avenue is available. The investigation is undertaken to determine whether it is more likely than not that the University’s Policy on Sexual Misconduct and Civil Rights was violated. It is not a question of “guilt” or “innocence;” rather, the Responding Party will be found “responsible” or “not responsible” for a violation of Policy based on a preponderance of evidence.
Based on the Investigator’s report, resolution will be pursued that is appropriate to the seriousness of the violation. This may include conflict resolution or administrative resolution.
Sanctions
A range of sanctions are available if the Responding Party is found responsible for violating the University’s Policy on Sexual Misconduct and Civil Rights. The sanctions are determined based on the nature, severity of, and circumstances surrounding the violation, an individual’s disciplinary history previous allegations or allegations involving similar conduct, and the need for sanctions/responsive actions to bring an end to and to prevent future discrimination, harassment and/or retaliation.
