DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
2010 Calendar Year Safety and Security Report
(2007-2009 Statistical Reporting Period)
In Compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy
and Campus Crime Statistics Act
Safety on the University campus is a natural source of concern for parents, students and University employees. Education, the business ofCoastalCarolinaUniversity, can take place only in an environment in which each student and employee feels safe and secure.CoastalCarolinaUniversityrecognizes this and employs a number of security measures to protect the members of its community. Although the area, with its small-town feel and neighborly attitude, is perceived to have a relatively low crime rate, no campus is totally isolated from crime. Consequently, crime prevention remains a high priority.
CoastalCarolinaUniversityis committed to providing a safe and secure environment for our community and guests and does its part to ensure the safety of everyone. All members of the campus community share in the responsibility of making the campus a safe place to study work and live. The campus is located inConway,South Carolina, nine miles west ofMyrtle Beach. Coastal Carolina University has more than 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students enrolled. Approximately 3,200 students live in campus residence halls. Coastal Carolina University also employs more than 1,000 full-time and part-time employees.
The primary objective of the Department of Public Safety is to provide a safe, healthy environment that enhances the campus learning experience and complements the University’s educational mission.
The department provides full-service police protection to the campus community. The Police Division of the Department of Public Safety is a fully independent law enforcement agency, reporting to the Vice President for Finance and Administration, and is responsible for law enforcement, criminal investigations, emergencies and campus awareness education.
Police officers are sworn and certified officers with comprehensive arrest powers in the state of South Carolina. These officers have graduated from the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy and are tasked with law enforcement activities including patrolling campus and monitoring activity, responding to calls for service and investigating criminal activity. Within their jurisdiction, which includes all University-owned, leased or controlled property as well as the adjacent streets and sidewalks, University police officers have the authority to enforce all applicable federal laws, state laws, HorryCountyand Conwaycity ordinances, and University regulations. These law enforcement powers are granted to the officers who are appointed by the Governor and commissioned by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) as state constables under Title 23, Chapter 1, Article 60, Code of Laws of South Carolina, 1976, as amended. University officers work closely with theConway andMyrtle Beach police departments, the Horry County Police Department and the local contingent of the State Law Enforcement Division to handle any incidents that occur off-campus. The Department of Public Safety and the Division of Student Affairs ensure that safety and security policies and procedures are uniformly executed and conveyed in a clear and consistent manner to the student body.
Security officers also patrol the campus to assist the campus community. Security officers are not police officers and they do not have arrest powers although they can write campus parking tickets. Security officers are tasked with monitoring activity on campus, opening and closing buildings, providing limited motor vehicle assistance and safety escorts, and controlling access at the residential areas of campus.
The Fire Safety officers are attached to the Department of Environmental Health and Safety. They are responsible for fire and safety code enforcement and for fire and safety education on campus. These officers maintain and inspect the fire systems on campus, respond to fire alarms, monitor buildings for fire prevention and safety purposes and assist with medical emergencies. Some of the Fire Safety officers do have law enforcement training, and those officers do have limited police powers.
Department of Public Safety officers patrol the campus 24 hours a day by motor vehicle, bicycle, golf cart and on foot. Officers are in radio communication with each other and the Department of Public Safety communications center.
The communications center is manned 24 hours a day, every day. The communications center is responsible for taking telephone requests for service, dispatching officers, and monitoring alarm and video systems. All public safety personnel may be reached by calling 843-349-2177 (non-emergencies) or 843-349-2911 (emergencies). The offices of the Department of Public Safety are located in Atheneum Hall at114 James P. Blanton Circle.
The on-campus emergency telephone number is 2911 (from off campus this number is 843-349-2911). This number directly connects any campus telephone with the Department of Public Safety and should be used when fire, police or medical response is required. This number is published in the University telephone directory and the Verizon and Horry Telephone Cooperative telephone directories. In addition to the telephone emergency number, outdoor emergency call boxes provide one-button instant communication with the Department of Public Safety and are located around campus.
Support services provided by the Department of Public Safety include: permanent, yearly and temporary vehicle registration for on-campus parking; assisting motorists with minor vehicle problems; providing crime prevention lectures and services; providing bicycle registration services; and maintaining the University’s lost and found department.
Fire Safety, a division of the Department of Environmental Health and Safety, takes a proactive approach to ensure the University's safety. The responsibilities of this division are numerous, but the common goal is protecting the University community.
The Fire Safety Division is responsible for planning and administering the University's fire prevention and life safety inspection programs. This includes review of all new building construction and renovations to ensure compliance with University fire protection standards and applicable state, local and national fire and life safety standards. In addition, this department is responsible for investigating the causes of fires, explosions, chemical hazards, accidents and related emergencies. Based on the investigations, Fire Safety Division staff recommend changes to improve safety standards and to reduce reoccurrence of such accidents.
Fire inspections are conducted every week. Department personnel inspect each building for fire and other safety hazards. Also, fire exit drills are conducted in University buildings. The purpose of these drills is to assure that the University is as safe as possible, and, if an emergency does occur, everyone is familiar with what actions to take. The first week of October is National Fire Prevention week, which is observed at the University.
Environmental Health and Safety is responsible for the disposal and storage of hazardous materials. Material Safety Data Sheets are maintained by the University and are accessible to all employees for review. Environmental Health and Safety also maintains health and safety policies for the University and the emergency call boxes located throughout the University grounds.
Except for student residential areas, most of the University facilities are open to the community during day and evening hours. When the University is officially closed, buildings are secured and only faculty, staff and pre-approved students with proper identification are admitted.
The University’s trespass policy, enforced by the Department of Public Safety, is as follows: Only those persons having legitimate business with Coastal Carolina University, or members of the University community and their invited guests, are permitted in a University building. The University reserves the right to exclude from all premises all persons not conforming to acceptable behavior standards. Those who disregard this warning are considered in violation of criminal trespass (underSouth Carolinacode provisions) and are liable for prosecution.
University police officers may serve verbal or written trespass notices to persons posing a threat to the community and may make immediate arrests of persons in secure areas where they have no legitimate business. If a person served with a prior trespass notice reappears on campus, or if a person is found in a posted facility with no legitimate purpose in that building, he or she is subject to immediate arrest.
In addition to campus law enforcement, students and employees are encouraged to report criminal offenses to campus security authorities (CSAs) on our campus. Individuals may not want to reveal their identity or press charges in certain situations. Consistent with those preferences, they can report an incident to one of the following employees, so that an anonymous report can be forwarded to the Department of Public Safety for statistical purposes:
Crimes may be reported to anyone listed here. The CSA is responsible for providing statistical information on crimes reported to them for inclusion in this report. Statistical information will also be requested from area police agencies.
The active cooperation and participation of all members of our community are essential in order to successfully combat crime. One of the most effective actions anyone can take to prevent crime is to quickly report anything that appears suspicious. Reports can be made to the Department of Public Safety or to any campus security authority.
Through a cooperative effort between the Department of Public Safety, University Housing, and Counseling Services, programs on personal safety and security, rape prevention and response, date rape, substance abuse, self-defense and resistance to burglary, larceny and vandalism are available throughout the school year. Resident assistants are encouraged to offer programs throughout the year to students in their areas on varying personal safety topics.
In addition to programming throughout the year, the University participates in National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week, a week devoted specifically to alcohol and substance abuse prevention. Through these awareness programs, members of the University community learn more about the University’s efforts to enhance their safety and become aware of their own personal stake in their own security and that of others.
The Department of Public Safety offers a free bicycle registration program for the campus community. The program is designed to help deter bicycle theft on campus. All bicycles on campus should be registered.
An online property registration service for other types of property is also offered. This service is administered through the Department of Public Safety website and allows any community member to register any property that is easily stolen. The database enables the Department of Public Safety and the owner to safely maintain a record of serial numbers and descriptions in case the property is taken.
Rape Aggression Defense (R.A.D.) classes are offered by the Department of Public Safety through the physically active lifestyles classes to female students, faculty and staff during the school year.
AlthoughCoastalCarolinaUniversityworks hard to ensure the safety of all individuals in the community, students and employees must take responsibility for their own personal safety and that of their personal belongings. Everyone is encouraged to report crimes so that investigations can take place. The Department of Public Safety believes that almost every violation committed on campus is avoidable. As part of the University’s educational mission, the department attempts to advise community members on ways to reduce their chances of experiencing crimes against themselves or their property.
TheCoastalCarolinaUniversitycrime prevention program is based on two concepts: first, eliminate or minimize, whenever possible, criminal opportunities; second, encourage everyone to be responsible for their own security and the security of others. Simple, common sense precautions are the most effective means of maintaining personal security. Some examples of these precautions include:
Further information about campus safety can be obtained from the Department of Public Safety at 843-349-2711 or on-campus in Atheneum Hall at 104 Independence Drive.
Procedures for Reporting Emergencies and Criminal Activity on Campus
Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to report any criminal activity, suspicious situations or emergencies to the Department of Public Safety. Police officers may be reached at the following telephone numbers:
|
Emergencies: |
2911 from campus buildings |
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Non-emergencies: |
2177 from campus buildings |
Emergency “call boxes” with blue overhead lights are located in conspicuous locations around campus. In addition, red emergency telephones have been placed in selected campus buildings allowing for easy access to campus police. University community members should familiarize themselves with the locations of these devices and are cautioned to use them for emergency purposes only. A listing of the available call boxes is located on the University website at the following address; http://www.coastal.edu/emergency/pdfs/appendix-a.pdf
The Department of Public Safety will, when deemed appropriate, provide timely warning reports to the campus community regarding specific crimes occurring on campus. Information will be made available by the use of the University website (www.coastal.edu), the Department of Public Safety Web page (www.coastal.edu/safety/), the CCU Alert system, mass emails, the online emergency information center (www.coastal.edu/emergency/), campus electronic message boards, the Department of Public Safety Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/Conway-SC/Coastal-Carolina-University-Department-of-Public-Safety/173284142186 ) and/or announcements affixed to bulletin boards in all campus buildings.
Information may also be reported to on-duty Resident Directors (RD) or Resident Assistants (RA). These individuals have contact with the Department of Public Safety and can assist student residents after normal working hours. Off-campus crimes are reported to the appropriate agency:
¨ Conway Police Department (843-349-1790) for incidents in the city ofConway
¨ Horry County Police Department (dial 911 for emergencies or 843-915-5350) for incidents in the unincorporated areas of Horry County
¨ Myrtle Beach Police Department (911 for emergencies or 843-918-1382 for non-emergency issues) for incidents that occur in the city ofMyrtle Beach.
Crimes or suspicious activities can also be reported anonymously by using the Department of Public Safety anonymous reporting Web page at www.coastal.edu/safety/witness. Anonymous reports can also be texted to, or left on voicemail at, 843-349-8477 (843-349-TIPS). All information submitted is strictly confidential.
Depending on the particular circumstances of the crime, especially in all situations that could pose an immediate threat to the community, the Department of Public Safety may post a notice on the campus-wide email system and on the online emergency information center, send a text message through the CCU Alert System (students, faculty and staff may register at www.coastal.edu/emergency/) providing the University community with more immediate notification, and on the University website at www.coastal.edu. In such instances, a copy of the notice may also be posted in each residence hall and classroom building and on the campus electronic message boards. This information will be shared through other means such as bulletins, crime alert notices, the Department of Public Safety Web page and/or the campus newspaper.
The University community is kept aware of reported incidents on campus through a variety of sources as listed above. In addition, the police crime log information appears on the Department of Public Safety website at http://www.coastal.edu/safety/police/index.html?type=logs. For those without access to the Internet, or those wishing to view a hard copy of the most current information, the Department of Public Safety will make the crime log for the most recent 60-day period open for public inspection during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Portions of the log beyond 60 days, if not immediately available, will be made accessible within two business days of a request for public inspection. The log will not leave the premises, but notes may be taken of entry information. Other outlets that inform community members about campus crime and crime related problems include: the Chanticleer (student newspaper), which publishes a summary of criminal incidents in each edition, and the Annual Safety and Security Report. This report can be viewed on the Department of Public Safety Web pages at www.coastal.edu/safety, or a hard copy report is available upon request at the Department of Public Safety office in Atheneum Hall.
Victims have the option of keeping their report of sexual assault in confidence, protecting their right to anonymity, when making a report or seeking services through the University’s counseling services or student health services departments. Reports made to these entities will be kept completely confidential, if requested. Reports made to the Department of Public Safety are treated confidentially, except as appropriate, necessary and required to investigate the allegations. When notified of a crime, the assigned investigator will work closely with the victim to resolve the problem. The victim retains the right to drop or decline prosecution of the case at any time and to choose whether to pursue the case through the criminal justice system, the student conduct system or both.
These rights are provided under the South Carolina Constitution:
The University recognizes, supports and enforces all laws related to alcohol and other drugs. The University does not offer a safe haven from applicable laws of criminal behavior. A detailed explanation of the policies governing possession, use and distribution of alcohol and other drugs at Coastal Carolina University can be found in the Coastal Carolina University Student Handbook, which is available on the Website at www.coastal.edu/students/StudentHandbook.pdf
South Carolinastate statutes prohibit certain activities regarding alcoholic beverages or drugs. Convictions for these violations ofSouth Carolinalaw could result in fines, loss of driver’s license and imprisonment. University sanctions could include penalties ranging from counseling or educational programming to suspension/expulsion from the University. The University follows a policy of minimum sanctions for some offences, especially drug and alcohol offences.
Coastal Carolina University adheres to strict policies against the illicit use of drugs and alcohol among students and employees. University police officers enforce allSouth Carolinalaws and University policies concerning the purchase, possession, consumption, sale and storage of alcoholic beverages and drugs, including the following:
Many physical and psychological health risks are associated with the abuse of alcohol and other substances, including such things as difficulty with attention and learning; physical and psychological dependence; damage to the brain, liver and heart; unwanted sexual activity; and accidents due to impaired judgment and coordination. TheStudentCounselingCenteror the Office of Student Affairs can provide more information.
Student Health Services provides assessment of medical conditions and limited medical assistance to students. Educational programs addressing alcohol and drug related issues, procedures and penalties are offered in accordance with the Coastal Carolina University alcohol and drug policy outlined in the Student Handbook, available in the Office of Student Affairs or on the Web at www.coastal.edu/students. The Student Handbook details offenses and discipline for students – ranging from sanctions under University procedures (probation, suspension and dismissal) to incarceration for criminal violations. All community members are required to abide by the terms of the published policies as a condition of employment or student status. These handbooks meet federal standards of the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments and the Drug Free Workplace Act as amended.
CoastalCarolinaUniversityis committed to providing on-campus security, education, training and victim services to combat violence against all persons. “Dating violence” is defined as violence committed by a person “who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim”; and “where the existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on a consideration of the length of the relationship, the type of relationship, and the frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship.” 20 U.S.C. 1152 (f) (1)
TheUniversityCounselingServicesCenteroffers support and counseling for individuals who have experienced dating violence. That support may be through individual or group counseling. Counseling is also available for friends and partners of people who have experienced this kind of violence.
A student victim of dating violence has the right, in addition to filing charges through the criminal justice system, to file a complaint with the University’s Office of Student Affairs, relative to an act of violence toward them or another committed byCoastalCarolinaUniversitystudent(s). It does not matter whether the act of violence occurred on or off campus since the University reserves the right to hold students accountable for certain types of off-campus behavior. Disciplinary action will result if a student’s behavior jeopardizes the educational atmosphere or mission of the institution. Examples of such off-campus behavior would include, but not be limited to, crimes of violence, sexual assault and/or alcohol or drug violations. University response to act(s) of dating violence can result in charges against the accused under the Coastal Carolina University Code of Student Conduct.
To lessen the impact of criminal acts on the victims and witnesses of crimes and to ensure that such individuals receive fair treatment while participating in the student conduct system, Department of Public Safety personnel can outline what being a victim or witness can mean and the agencies available to assist in criminal justice procedures. The campus Student Affairs staff, including the counseling center, can provide assistance. The State ofSouth Carolina Victim’s Advocate Program may also be of service.
If a member of the University community believes that a student is missing, whether or not the student resides on campus, all possible efforts are made to locate the student to determine his or her state of health and well-being through the collaboration of the Department of Public Safety and the Office of Student Affairs. If the student is an on-campus resident, the University police will make a welfare entry into the student’s room. If the student resides off campus, the Department of Public Safety will formally enlist the aid of the appropriate neighboring police agency having jurisdiction. Concurrently, University officials will endeavor to determine the student’s whereabouts through contact with friends, associates and/or employers of the student. Whether or not the student has been attending classes, labs, recitals, and scheduled organizational or academic meetings, or appearing for scheduled work shifts will be established.
If located, verification of the student’s state of health and intention of returning to the campus will be made. If appropriate, a referral will be made to Counseling Services and/or Student Health Services. If not located, notification of the family within 24 hours of receiving the initial report is made to determine if they know the whereabouts of the student. If the student is an off-campus resident, appropriate family members or associates are encouraged to make an official missing person report to the law enforcement agency with jurisdiction. The University police will cooperate, aid and assist the primary investigative agency in all ways prescribed by law. If the missing student is an on-campus resident, the Department of Public Safety will open an investigation as the primary investigative unit.
All pertinent law enforcement agencies (neighboring municipal, county or state) located along suspected travel corridors or place of original domicile will be notified and requested to render assistance, through direct telephone contact or visit, and/or radio transmission with a comprehensive BOLO message. Upon closure of the investigation, all parties previously contacted will be advised of the status of the case.
The first rule is don’t panic. Become familiar with emergency exits, fire alarm and extinguisher locations in your residence and in your academic buildings. In the event of a fire, pull the nearest fire alarm to notify others and leave the building immediately. Evacuate and call the Department of Public Safety at 843-349-2911 (or 2911 from on-campus telephone) to ensure the alarm was received. All residence halls are equipped with smoke detectors, fire hoses and/or fire extinguishers. Apartments are equipped with smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
All residence halls on the Coastal Carolina University campus are equipped with fire sprinklers and fire alarm systems. The fire alarm systems and the automatic sprinkler systems are monitored electronically 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year by the Coastal Carolina University Police Communications Center. The University employs an alarm technician who maintains and tests the fire alarms systems in accordance with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standard 72.
The University Environmental Health and Safety Department Fire Safety Division inspects the fire sprinkler systems in accordance with NFPA 25 and contracts with South Carolina licensed sprinkler contractors for annual testing and recertification of all fire sprinkler systems on campus. The Fire Safety Division also contracts with South Carolina licensed vendors for the annual inspection and certification of all fire extinguishers on all Coastal Carolina University campuses. They also useSouth Carolinalicensed contractors for the testing and certification of commercial kitchen hood systems and clean agent fire extinguishing systems.
The Fire Safety Division inspects fire extinguishers on a monthly basis during its inspection of campus buildings with the exception of those located within a housing unit. The Fire Safety Division also tests all on-campus fire pumps on a weekly basis and contracts for the pumps to be annually tested and recertified.
Residence halls with kitchens are equipped with ABC fire extinguishers in the unit, and residence halls without cooking facilities are equipped with ABC fire extinguishers in the common areas.
Evacuation of any University building is mandatory whenever a fire alarm sounds. Sounding of fire alarms or tampering with fire safety equipment, including fire hoses, fire extinguishers, fire sprinklers and fire sprinkler piping, exit signs, emergency lighting, smoke detectors and the fire alarm systems is strictly prohibited.
More than 3,200 students reside in 56 residence halls and apartment buildings on the Coastal Carolina University campus or in University Place, which is located half a mile from campus. Students living in residence halls have a special responsibility for each other. Services and programs intended to enhance the quality of life and assure the safety of the resident student body are a major priority for Student Affairs, University Housing and Department of Public Safety staff. The University does not supervise off-campus housing, such as homes or individual apartments. University Housing staff members live in the residence halls and are on call 24 hours a day. Each building is staffed by a resident assistant. University Housing staff has contact with the University’s Department of Public Safety. The Department of Public Safety operates security checkpoints on the roads entering the campus residence living areas. The checkpoints serve as screening sites to permit resident students to enter the residence hall area, while screening persons who do not have a legitimate reason to be in the area. Overnight visitation by guests of the same sex is permitted with the written approval of all roommates and University Housing.
Live-in resident assistants and members of the University Housing staff receive training in enforcing residence hall security policies, community development, fire safety and making the campus living experience better. They are available during weekend and evening hours to assist students. University housing provides coeducational housing in a variety of configurations with set visitation hours. Residents must escort their guests at all times.
All University residence facilities are closed during holidays and vacations and when the University is closed. During low occupancy periods, such as the summer terms, students remaining on campus are moved into concentrated areas of the residence hall complex to enhance security effectiveness. Those few students authorized to live on campus during periods of low occupancy are registered with University Housing, and special security procedures are established.
The Department of Public Safety and University Housing facilities management personnel work diligently to make the residence halls safe, but their efforts can be easily negated through lack of cooperation of residents. The involvement of students in the campus security program is critical. Violations of the following precautions can expose residents to loss of property or possible physical harm. Students must assume responsibility for their safety, the safety of others and the security of property by taking simple, common sense precautions such as:
Inspections surveying the security integrity of University Housing are conducted periodically. Repairs are made promptly, locks quickly replaced when keys are reported lost or stolen, and reports of potential safety hazards, such as broken windows, receive immediate response. Access to on-campus housing by University employees is on an “as needed” basis. All University repair and maintenance personnel must be in uniform to allow for easy identification by residents.
The Coastal Carolina University campus is well lighted and improvements in campus lighting are continually being considered, including the placement of high-intensity metal halide or sodium vapor lights on buildings, in parking lots, in areas with heavy landscaping and along sidewalks and pathways frequently traveled by students. Representatives from segments of the campus community, including students, student affairs, facilities management and public safety staffs, conduct lighting and shrubbery tours at least annually. Safety and security concerns are identified and recommendations for improvements made.
Visitors are always welcome both in academic buildings and residence areas. Information regarding University Housing policies and procedures is in the Student Handbook. Residents must adhere to the guest visitation policy, escort guests at all times and maintain responsibility for the actions of their visitors. Safety and security procedures, room security precautions and other topics are discussed with residents in crime prevention seminars, in residence hall meetings conducted by the resident assistants and housing staff, and in printed materials.
Off-campus housing includes apartments, private homes and individual rooms or apartments within private homes. Crime prevention programs emphasizing what residents can do to help themselves are available.ConwayandMyrtle Beachpolice, theHorryCountypolice or other local law enforcement respond to and investigate criminal incidents at off campus residences. The University reserves the right to charge an organization or individual with a violation of campus policy for off-campus infractions based upon sufficient evidence but does not provide supervision for off-campus housing.
Hurricane: If a hurricane warning is issued that may affectCoastalCarolinaUniversity, an evacuation of the housing area and/or University closing may be necessary. Plans are in place to evaluate all circumstances before an evacuation decision is made. Once evacuation is called for, the University will notify campus residents to evacuate to appropriate shelters. After the storm, the directors of public safety and facilities management will inspect the situation and determine if it is safe for students to return to their residence hall or apartment.
Thunderstorms: The Department of Public Safety will notify the University community when severe thunderstorms are predicted and the weather becomes threatening. Normally, evacuation of buildings is not necessary, but everyone should be aware of the dangers of going outside during this type of storm.
Tornado: Tornado watch means that conditions are favorable for tornado activity. Tornado warning means that a tornado has been sighted in the area. The Department of Public Safety will advise persons in University buildings.
Definition: Sexual harassment is defined as any unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, when submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s employment or academic status, or submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as the basis for employment or academic decisions affecting that individual, or such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonable interference with an individual’s work performance or educational experience, or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive work or educational environment.
Examples: Prohibited acts take a variety of forms from subtle pressure for sexual activity to physical assault. Examples include, but are not limited to, threats or intimation of sexual relations or sexual contact which are not freely or mutually agreeable to both parties; continued or repeated verbal abuses or comments of a sexual nature; and threats or insinuations that the person’s employment, grade, wages, promotional opportunities, class or work assignments, may be adversely affected by not submitting to sexual advances.
Policy: Sexual harassment is unacceptable conduct and will not be tolerated. It may involve behavior of a person of either sex against a person of the opposite or same sex, when that behavior falls within the definition above. As a place of work and learningCoastalCarolinaUniversitymust be free of all forms of sexual intimidation, exploitation and harassment; the University does not condone sexual harassment and individuals who engage in it are subject to disciplinary action. For employees of the University these actions may include, but are not limited to, oral or written warnings, demotions, transfers, suspension without pay or dismissal for cause. Students of the University may face sanctions under the Student Code of Conduct. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination, prohibited under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 for employees and under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 for students. The South Carolina State Human Affairs Law also prohibits sex discrimination. Each dean, department chair, director and supervisor is responsible for providing a work and educational environment free from sexual harassment.
Procedure: Any unwelcome behavior that may be construed as sexual harassment should be reported; however, willful false accusations will not be condoned. Inquiries about sexual harassment need not begin with a formal complaint or necessarily result in a complaint. Questions can be asked without disclosing specific details such as names and places. Any University employee who feels that she or he has been sexually harassed and who wishes further information or who wishes to file a complaint should contact the executive director of human resources and organizational development. Students should contact the associate vice president for student affairs, the executive director of human resources and organizational development, or the director of counseling services. Any faculty or staff member receiving a complaint of sexual harassment should seek the advice of the vice president of organizational development and human resources. No one may be subject to restraint, interference, coercion or reprisal for seeking information about sexual harassment, filing a sexual harassment complaint or serving as a witness.
Anyone can be the victim of sexual assault. Sexual assault is a flagrant violation of the University’s standards of conduct. When the assailant is an acquaintance, a survivor often has mixed feelings concerning the incident and what to do about it. Besides feeling frightened, angry, hurt and ashamed, survivors can feel betrayed and even guilty for having “facilitated” the assault. In some cases, they do not even acknowledge that they have been assaulted until long after the incident has occurred. For more information check the public safety website at www.coastal.edu/safety
Definition: Sexual assault is any actual or attempted non-consensual sexual activity including but not limited to intercourse, attempted intercourse or sexual touching, by a person known or unknown to the victim.
Rape is an act of sexual intercourse with a person against his or her will and consent, whether a person’s will is overcome by force or fear resulting from the threat of force, or by drugs administered without consent, or when a person is unconscious, intoxicated or otherwise physically unable to communicate willingness.
Having sexual relations with someone who is unable to give consent by being mentally incapacitated or unconscious (passed out) is rape.
Getting Assistance: Victims of a sexual assault may be unsure of how to deal with the assault and may wonder what courses of action are available to them and appropriate for their situation. An unfortunate result of this insecurity is that many victims elect not to tell anyone about their ordeal and decline to seek the help they need, on a physical and emotional level, to deal with the terrible hurt they have suffered. All students, faculty and staff should be aware of both the consequences of sexual assault and the options available to the victim. Seeking assistance in connection with a sexual assault from the hospital, the police, the University or anyone else does not obligate further action.
If a sexual offense should occur, the victim should: go to a safe place, contact a friend or family member, get prompt medical attention, call the Department of Public Safety (or the local police if the incident occurred off campus), tell someone all details about the assault or write down all details as soon as possible and keep the clothes worn during the offense. If clothes are changed, place clothes in a paper bag (evidence deteriorates in plastic) and do not shower, bathe or douche. If possible, do not urinate, do not eat, drink liquids, smoke or brush teeth if oral contact took place and do not destroy the physical evidence that may be found in the vicinity of the crime. If the crime occurred in the victim’s home, the victim should not clean or straighten up until law enforcement has had an opportunity to collect evidence.
How to Help: When someone who has been sexually assaulted comes to you, encourage him/her to seek medical attention, pursue counseling and report the incident. No victim should suffer alone. If the victim does not wish to report the assault, anyone can inform the Department of Public Safety. When a third party makes the complaint, it is important for that individual to document the “nameless” report to the Department of Public Safety within 24 hours.CoastalCarolinaUniversity will work closely with the victim and will assist in changing the victim’s academic or living situation if the changes are requested and are reasonably available.
Medical Attention: Any victim of a sexual offense is encouraged to seek medical assistance. This is the first step in regaining control over your life. Even if the victim decides not to report the assault to law enforcement, it is very important to seek medical attention immediately for possible internal injuries or sexually transmitted diseases. To keep all options available, the collection of medical evidence becomes critical in the event you choose, even later, to prosecute. At the emergency room, the doctor or nurse will collect samples of hair, semen and other trace evidence. The hospital will collect the clothing worn next to the skin during the assault so it is helpful to bring a change of clothes with you. Going to the hospital and having evidence collected does NOT obligate the victim to complete other actions. This simply aids in keeping options open until the victim decides how to proceed. Options include choosing to pursue criminal charges against the perpetrator, or violations through the University student conduct process, or both.
Counseling: Remember, sexual assault is a crime committed against you, not by you. Do not blame yourself. Emotional trauma is severe after a sexual assault. The violation, loss of trust and loss of control can have serious long-term impact on the victim. It is not unusual for a person to feel guilty, distrustful or withdrawn from others, particularly in an acquaintance rape. There are, however, trained persons, on and off campus, who can provide counseling and support during recovery. Agencies that may be of assistance to you include: Counseling Services 843-349-2305; Department of Public Safety 843-349-2177; Student Affairs 843-349-2302; Student Health Services 843-347-6543; and Human Resources 843-349-2034.
Reporting to the Police: Following an incident, victims are encouraged to make a report to campus and/or local police. This action does not obligate prosecution, but it does make legal action possible if the decision to prosecute is made at a later date. The earlier an incident is reported, the easier it is to collect valuable evidence. Incidents may also be reported to any Coastal Carolina University CSA, the Office of Counseling Services or Student Health Services. If the suspect is a student, the student victim is encouraged to contact the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs immediately. Department of Public Safety officers will aid the victim in completing the report and/or contacting other agencies that can help. Off-campus incidents should be reported to the local police. If the assault happens in the cities ofConwayorMyrtle Beach, or inHorryCounty, contact the police at 911. Student victims who desire anonymity are encouraged to call Counseling Services 843-349-2305 for help or advice. When a sexual offense is reported, the University will make every effort to see that the victim is offered medical and psychological care as well as information about prosecuting the suspect through both University student conduct channels and the criminal justice system. Victims have the option of keeping their report of sexual assault in complete confidence, protecting their right to anonymity, when making a report through the University’s Counseling Services office.
The Department of Public Safety believes a victim deserves the right to a professional investigation. Victims are often confused about how to deal with their trauma. Reporting the assault to the police and obtaining medical attention are not synonymous with criminal prosecution. The victim retains the right not to pursue prosecution even if these steps are taken. Even if the victim decides not to pursue charges, reporting the assault is a step in regaining a sense of personal control. Providing information about the assault may help someone else avoid becoming a victim. If the offender does repeat, you may change your mind about pressing charges. If you are a victim, the Department of Public Safety will aid you in arranging for medical care, contacting counseling and other available resources. Public safety personnel will meet with you privately at a place you choose to take a report, and will do our best to meet your request to speak to a male or female officer. The officers you encounter will treat you and your case with sensitivity and professionalism and continue to be available to you to answer questions and explain the processes involved. The department will investigate your case, perhaps leading to arrest and prosecution of a suspect. Finally, public safety personnel will keep you up-to-date on progress of the investigation or prosecution and your rights and options.
Student Conduct Proceedings: University Student Conduct action, criminal prosecution and civil suit are all options available to victims of sexual assault. To begin University Student Conduct action, the victim should contact the Office of Student Conduct and report the assault with a request that charges be filed. The victim may request only to receive medical and/or psychological assistance. If the student/victim does not wish any official action, that is his or her choice. Reports will be included anonymously in statistics required by the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act.
Students accused of sexual offenses can be charged with violating Coastal Carolina University’s code of student conduct. The accuser and the accused are entitled to have others present during a campus disciplinary hearing. If faced with criminal prosecution, the accused may have the right to the presence of an attorney. If that option is chosen, the victim may also have an attorney present. Both the accused and the accuser are notified of the results of the campus disciplinary proceeding brought as a result of the charges. The victim is allowed to make a “victim impact statement” as part of the hearing process.
If criminal charges are pressed and the suspect found guilty, University discipline will be in line with the conviction. If charges are not pressed but the victim identifies the assailant, disciplinary action will be in line with the severity of the offense upon completion of the investigation and substantiation.PossibleUniversitydisciplinary action may include: fines, dismissal from housing or dismissal from the University. A student perpetrator living off-campus may be fined or dismissed from the University. For a faculty or staff perpetrator, disciplinary action may include termination.
There are a number of proactive measures you can take to minimize the potential for becoming a victim. These include reporting suspicious persons to the Department of Public Safety, and letting someone know where you are going and when you will return. Try to avoid working, studying or being alone in buildings or isolated areas. If you “feel” uncomfortable -- trust your feelings -- contact the Department of Public Safety and request to be accompanied to your destination. Get to know where emergency call boxes are located throughout the campus.
You should be cautious when dating someone you don’t know well; get information about that person from a mutual acquaintance or try to arrange a double date or group activity. Remember that leaving a party or other social event with someone you have just met can be dangerous. Avoid excessive use of alcohol; most acquaintance rapes involve drugs or alcohol use by one or both parties. Men and women should avoid excessive alcohol in dating situations. Don’t have your good judgment impaired. Do not use illicit drugs or abuse prescription drugs; they can interfere with clear thinking and clear communication. Know your sexual desires and limitations and communicate them clearly to your partner. Finally, walk with confidence and alertness; assailants are less likely to target a person who appears assertive and difficult to intimidate.
Prevention, intervention and education programs specifically addressing rape, acquaintance rape and other sexual offenses are sponsored by a variety of organizations atCoastalCarolinaUniversitythroughout the year. Programs on sexual assault occur in residence halls and the topic is addressed at Freshman Orientation. The University sponsors a number of education and awareness programs regarding sexual assault. For more information on these programs, contact the Office of Student Affairs.
Incarceration may remove a sex offender from the streets but it does nothing to prevent the offender from committing another crime when released. The Federal Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act, enacted on October 28, 2000, 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 ordered to register in the state to provide notice, in compliance with state law, to each institution of higher education in that state at which the person is employed, carries on a vocation, or is a student. InSouth Carolina, convicted sex offenders must register with thecountySheriff’s office where they reside. The sex offender information can be found on these Web sites:
In addition, all persons convicted of violations under the laws of theUnited Statesor any other state substantially similar to an offense for which registration is required shall provide to the local agency (Horry County Sheriff’s Office) all necessary information for inclusion in the State Sex Offender Registry within 10 days of establishing a residence withinSouth Carolina. Any person required to register shall also be required to re-register within 10 days following any change of residence.
Nonresident offenders entering a state for employment, to carry on a vocation, or as a student attending school who are required to register in their state of residence or who would be required to register under this section if a resident of South Carolina shall, within 10 days of accepting employment or enrolling in school in the state, be required to register and re-register pursuant to this section (at the Horry County Sheriff’s Office). For purposes of this section “student” means a person who is enrolled on a full-time or part-time basis, in any public or private educational institution, including any secondary school, trade or professional institution, or institution of higher education.
Pursuant toSouth CarolinaCode Ann. Paragraph 23-3-400 et seq., information on all registered adult sex offenders age 17 and over is provided on the SLED Sex Offender site. Information also is provided on the site for registered sex offenders ages 12 to 16 for committing certain offenses. Requests for information on any other registered offenders under age 17 must be evaluated to determine whether the requestor is qualified to receive information on additional offenses for offenders under age 17 as; victims of, or witnesses to the offense, public or private schools, child day care centers, family day care centers, businesses or organizations that primarily serve children, women or vulnerable adults, or whether the offender, if age 11 or under, has a prior conviction or adjudication of delinquency. Completing this evaluation requires the requestor to complete and furnish a written request on a specified form to SLED or a Sheriff’s office. A copy of this form may be obtained online and mailed or faxed to: Sex Offender Registry, c/o SLED,P.O. Box 21398,Columbia,S.C.29221. The fax number is 803-896-7022.
SLED maintains a system for making certain registry information available by means of the Internet. The information made available includes the offender’s name; if the offender is considered a predator; the offender’s sex, race, age, date of birth, height, weight, eye color, hair and skin color; last reported address; any scars, marks or tattoos; all aliases which he has used or under which he may have been known; the date of conviction; the statute violated; and photograph, if available. The system is secure and is not capable of being altered except by or through SLED. Web addresses are:
The State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) Web site allows you to search for offenders by name, city, county or zip code.
Registry information provided under law shall be used for the purposes of the administration of criminal justice, for the screening of current or prospective employees or volunteers or otherwise for the protection of the public in general and children in particular. Use of the information for purposes not authorized by law is prohibited and willful violation with the intent to harass or intimidate another can result in prosecution.
TheCoastalCarolinaUniversityhousing contract states that the University reserves the right to refuse a student’s being admitted to or remaining in housing if the student fails to meet University requirements or to adhere properly to University policies or regulations.
CoastalCarolinaUniversityhas a high ratio of automobiles to students. The traffic regulations provide for maximum use of existing facilities and ensure safe movement of pedestrians and vehicles. Everyone who operates a motor vehicle on campus is subject to the laws ofSouth Carolinaand University regulations. Detailed information regarding campus “Rules of the Road” are in the Traffic and Parking Regulations and the Student Handbook. Vehicles found without properCoastalCarolinaUniversityregistration may be stopped and the operator asked to explain their purpose for being on campus. Officers have equipment to attempt to jump-start or unlock vehicles; however, there is no guarantee of success. This service is free, but only available on campus.
Firearms and dangerous weapons of any type are not permitted in the residence halls or other University facilities, except when carried by law enforcement officers within their jurisdictions. Possession of a firearm on campus is a felony withinSouth Carolina. Intentional use, possession or sale of firearms or other dangerous weapons by students are strictly forbidden and violate University policy and state law. Violations can result in arrest and confiscation/destruction of the weapon/ ammunition/prohibited item. Other weapons prohibited on campus include BB guns, air guns, hatchets, knives (blades 2" or longer), bows/arrows, explosives, fireworks, dangerous/noxious chemical mixtures, incendiary devices, propelled missiles or other dangerous substances. Approval for temporary possession or use in extremely limited and specific situations is considered on a case-by-case basis and must be made to the Department of Public Safety.
The incidence of crimes that occurred in reportable areas during the preceding three calendar years is listed in this brochure, which can be printed from the Web site www.coastal.edu/safety by clicking on the link to the Clery Report. Coastal Carolina University’s students, faculty and staff are informed of the publication by mass email and directed to the site of the report. Prospective employees and students are also informed of how to access the information.
The Coastal Carolina University Department of Public Safety serves as the “clearinghouse” in the statistical gathering of crime data from campus security authorities and reporting of statistics involving pertinent criminal incidents, arrests or referrals. These offices routinely compare and reconcile gathered information to minimize multiple postings for the same reported criminal incidents or arrests. Likewise, statistics from the required geographical areas pertinent to the University are requested from the Conway, Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach and Georgetown city police departments and the Horry and Georgetown county police and sheriffs’ departments annually. All figures reported are incorporated in the statistical tables in this report, which is published once a year on or by Oct. 1 for disclosure to the University community and the public. Offense definitions used are from the FBI’s Uniform Crime Report (UCR).
This information is provided in compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act of 1998, theDrug-FreeSchoolsand Communities Act Amendments of 1989 and the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and their amendments.
2009 – There were two unintentional cooking fires reported at University Place. One fire caused $3500.00 worth of damage, the second caused no damage. There were no injuries or deaths associated with either fire.
2010 - There was one unintentional cooking fire at University Place. The fire caused no damage, or injuries.
2011 Fire statistics - Links to a new page
This information is furnished in compliance with the Clery Act. Reports do not necessarily mean that a crime occurred or that arrests or convictions resulted
Crime statistics 09 - 11 {this link will take you too a new page} (back to top)
Bias Related Crime Statistics 2009 - 2011 (back to top)
2009 - Three total bias related incidents (Hate Crimes):
One on campus, residential assault characterized by gender bias
One on campus, residential assault characterized by race bias that included charges of drunkenness and disturbing schools
One on campus, residential assault characterized by disability bias
2010 – No bias related crimes were reported
2011 - No bias related crimes were reported
Please Note: In order order for you to see the forms below you need to have Acrobat Reader installed on your computer.
Vehicle Registration Form - FACULTY/STAFF
Download Faculty/Staff Vehicle Registration Form (pdf)
Report of Criminal Offense Form
Download Criminal Offense Form (pdf)
Student Permit to Enter Building
Download Student Permit to Enter Building Form (pdf)