Statement Summary

The University's full policy statement can be accessed on the web at:
www.fpd.finop.umn.edu/groups/ppd/documents/policy/Sexual_Assault_Pol.cfm

Sexual assault and relationship violence are prohibited at the University of Minnesota. Sexual assault and relationship violence, including threats of sexual assault and related relationship violence, are attacks not only on a person's body, but also on the person's dignity, and are not tolerated. To foster a community free from sexual assault and relationship violence, the University provides reporting options, including the police department; victim/survivor assistance; internal mechanisms for discipline and dispute resolution; prevention training; and other related services.

Reason for Policy

As a University and as a community, we strive to assure the safety and respect the dignity of each student, staff, and faculty member. While the Board of Regents' Policy on Sexual Harassment prohibits conduct covered by this administrative policy, this policy establishes procedures for responding to incidents involving sexual assault and relationship violence. The commitment of the entire University community to this policy contributes to our goal of creating a campus free from sexual assault and from other violence that may occur within a personal, intimate relationship.

Because reporting is the only way that action can be taken against an alleged violator of this policy, the University strongly encourages the reporting of sexual assault and relationship violence to appropriate officials. Timely reporting and a medical examination within 72 hours is critical in preserving evidence of sexual assault, and the ability to respond effectively, but a victim/survivor can report an incident at any time.

The University provides an array of on campus services to victims/survivors, including confidential crisis intervention, health care, counseling, and related assistance, including changing academic programs and living situations (if requested and reasonably available). The University provides appropriate judicial/discipline processes that are supportive, fair, expedient, and respectful of the individual needs and rights of all involved, including privacy. The University provides a variety of educational programs and services to all members of the University community.

Definitions

Consent
Consent is informed, freely and actively given, and mutually understood. If physical force, coercion, intimidation, and/or threats are used, there is no consent. If the victim/survivor is mentally or physically incapacitated or impaired so that the victim/survivor can not understand the fact, nature or extent of the sexual situation, and the condition was or would be known to a reasonable person, there is no consent. This includes conditions due to alcohol or drug consumption, or being asleep or unconscious.

Sexual Assault
Sexual assault is actual, attempted or threatened sexual contact with another person without that person's consent. Sexual assault often is a criminal act that can be prosecuted under Minnesota state law, as well as under the Student Conduct Code and employee discipline procedures.

Relationship Violence
Relationship violence means causing physical harm or abuse, and threats of physical harm or abuse, arising out of a personal, intimate relationship. Relationship violence often is a criminal act that can be prosecuted under Minnesota state law, as well as under the Student Conduct Code and employee discipline procedures.