Crimes of Violence: Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence and Stalking 
 
James Madison University prohibits domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
James Madison University is concerned about the safety and well-being of its students and employees. Individuals who report they have been a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking, whether it occurred on or off-campus, will be provided support, an explanation of his or her rights and options, and the procedures for addressing the violation.

Assistance will be provided by the university when the victim of such crime elects or is unable to make a report.
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (“Title IX”), 20 U.S.C. Sec. 1681, et seq., prohibits discrimination based on sex (including sexual harassment and sexual violence) at any federally funded education program or activity. The university must respond to complaints concerning Title IX and due to this mandate, please note that your confidentiality cannot be guaranteed but efforts will be made to provide confidentiality of victims to the extent permissible by law.  Furthermore, no officer, employee, or agent of an institution shall retaliate, intimidate, threaten, coerce, or otherwise discriminate against any individual for exercising their rights or responsibilities under the Jeanne Clery   Disclosure of Campus Policy and Campus Crime Statistic Act or Title IX.

As a victim of sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking, you are being provided a written explanation of the procedures to be followed upon a report of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and/or stalking. These procedures include your right to file criminal charges. You have the option to notify law enforcement authorities about the offense, the option to be assisted by campus authorities in notifying law enforcement if you choose to do so, and the option to decline to notify such authorities.  It will include additional remedies available to prevent contact between a reporter and an accused party, such as temporary or permanent changes in housing, academic, transportation, and working conditions, if reasonably available through the Title IX office. The victim’s personally identifying information will not be included in any reporting disclosures such as the daily crime log.

If you would like more information regarding any process or procedure, or if you’d like to make a report, ask questions, or need to request an accommodation to your living or working arrangements regardless of whether or not you chose to report the crime to law enforcement, contact the University’s Title IX Office at 540 568-5219 or in person at Holland Yates Hall (formerly Madison Hall) Room 4035 100 East Grace Street MSC 7806 Harrisonburg, VA 22807.

Sex Offenses - Victim Resources and Assistance Contact Information

Sexual Violence - You Have Choices- A Condensed Overview

James Madison University strongly encourages students, faculty, and staff to report all Crimes of Violence- Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking to the JMU Police Department or appropriate police jurisdiction and Title IX Coordinator as promptly as possible so the University can investigate and respond effectively

Options for health-related resources:

• On-campus victim advocacy, support, & accompaniment services
• Available for assistance with both on- and off-campus resources
• Available during regular business hours, Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm. For more immediate assistance from an advocate after hours or when the university is closed, contact the Collins Center, listed below.           

• Emergency contraception
• Medical examination/STD testing 

• Counseling, advocacy, and consultation
• Sexual trauma empowerment program

• Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE Nurse)
• Police department investigator from where the assault occurred
• Advocate from the Collins Center

• Off-campus crisis counseling, support, and advocacy

Options for campus and criminal resources:

• JMU Police (on-campus assault) 540-568-6911, Anthony Seeger Hall 821 South Main Street Harrisonburg, VA
  
  
• Harrisonburg Police (off-campus assault) call 911 or 540-434-4436 101 North Main Street Harrisonburg, VA
  
  
• Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office – 540-564-3800 25 Liberty Street Harrisonburg, VA
  
  
• Office of Student Accountability & Restorative Practices (those involved must be current JMU students) 540-568-6218, Student Success Center
  
  
• Title IX Amy Sirocky-Meck 540-568-5214 Holland Yates Hall (formerly Madison Hall) Suite 4020, JMU Harrisonburg, VA 22807 

James Madison University takes the issue of sexual violence seriously and sexual violence includes a broad spectrum of behavior. The JMU Police Department recognizes the fact that sex offenses are personal violent crimes that have great psychological and physical effects on the victims. It is the policy of the JMU Police Department to assist victims of sexual violence in a supportive manner, using appropriate crisis intervention skills while providing resources for the victim. Due to the seriousness of these offenses and the delicate nature of the investigations involved, it is important for the department to undertake diligent investigations in order to increase the reporting of these crimes. Reducing recidivism and serial criminal offenses through the apprehension and prosecution of the assailants is a department priority. Although the university strongly encourages all members of its community to report sexual violence to law enforcement, you also have the option not to make a report to law enforcement.  State law, however, requires the university to conduct a review of reports of sexual violence to determine whether for health or safety reasons a report should be made to law enforcement and the Commonwealth’s Attorney and the issuing of incident notifications known as Timely Warnings or Community Alerts in accordance with federal law.

Although an immediate criminal justice police response is an option, which is best, a victim can also choose to meet with a Title IX Coordinator(s) to explain possible remedies and resources. The process and procedures the university follows in responding to instances of sexual harassment and sexual misconduct are detailed and outlined in University Policy 1346 Title IX Sexual Harassment, University Policy 1340 Sexual Misconduct.

To report sexual misconduct, harassment, and discrimination to Title IX Office using one of these options...

In-Person: Title IX Office
Holland Yates Hall (formerly Madison Hall) | 4023, 4033 and 4035
100 East Grace Street
Harrisonburg, VA  22807

Over the Phone: Title IX Office at (540) 568-5219

Email: Title IX Inbox

Reporting to the Title IX Office does not preclude an individual from also reporting an alleged criminal incident to law enforcement.

Once Title IX receives a report, the university must respond to the complaint. The university will conduct an initial assessment, and a threat assessment, and take any immediate action that may be necessary to protect the health and safety of individuals and the university community. Options for and available assistance to victims for changing academic, living, transportation, and working situations if requested by the victim and reasonably available will be provided. Depending on the nature and severity of the conduct reported, the university may be required to share known information, including names, with law enforcement.  The university is committed to protecting the safety of the broader university community, which includes reporting crime statistics and, in some cases, issuing incident notifications known as Timely Warnings or Community Alerts in accordance with federal law. All JMU faculty, staff, and student employees (including RAs) are responsible for reporting disclosures of sexual violence or harassment to the Title IX Coordinator.  Required reporting to the Title IX coordinator ensures victims are made aware of available resources and options for filing a complaint. Federal and state law, however, requires the university to conduct a review of reports of sexual violence to determine whether for health or safety reasons a report should be made to law enforcement and the Commonwealth’s Attorney. When such reports will be made, the University Title IX Coordinator will advise the complainant.

Another option is to seek advocacy services from a victim advocate. Services are provided to students in a supportive way helping them navigate their options and resources. Advocacy services are guided by and individualized to each student’s needs and may include, but are not limited to:

• Assistance accessing on-campus and off-campus support services regarding sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking.
• Information about criminal reporting options, campus reporting options, medical care, counseling services, and on- and off-campus resources.
• Assistance accessing accommodations through Title IX.
• Accompaniment services for survivors, including:
  • Accompaniment through the OSARP student misconduct process
  • Accompaniment during law enforcement interviews
  • Court accompaniment (protective orders and criminal proceedings)
  • Hospital accompaniment during business hours
  • With the student’s permission, can help explain resources to family members

There are a variety of reasons why students may seek advocacy services. When meeting with an advocate, you can share as much or as little as you want. We will listen and help you explore options and resources, both on- and off-campus, to meet your needs. You may or may not wish to report the incident; either way, the decision will remain in your hands. There are also many additional resources outside of reporting that our advocates can help you understand and access. Regardless of your needs, our advocates can be a source of information and support as you navigate what feels best for you. Victim Advocacy Services are located on the 3rd floor of the Student Success Center. Advocacy services are available as a walk-in service as well as by appointment. To access services, come to the Victim Advocacy suite during regular business hours or email victimadvocacy@jmu.edu to schedule a time to meet. 

Another option is for a victim to go to the JMU Counseling Center. The Counseling Center's Sexual Trauma Empower Program (STEP) offers free and confidential short and long-term individual, group, and emergency sexual trauma counseling services for JMU students. Clinicians may also assist with the medical, accountability process, and legal consultation and referrals. Consultation around Title IX and other issues for faculty, staff, family members, and friends of survivors of sexual trauma is also available. During the initial assessment appointment, a counselor will help a student decide which service(s) would be the most beneficial given their specific circumstances, which may include speaking with a victim advocate or receiving treatment at JMU’ s Health Center (if a student) and/or Sentara Rockingham Memorial Hospital (SRMH). Clinicians at the JMU Counseling Center are exempt from Title IX reporting requirements, and communications with clients are privileged by law; therefore, Title IX implications will be discussed with faculty, staff, family members, and students as needed, and clinicians serve as a confidential resource for students directly impacted by sexual trauma.

Another option is to adjudicate the allegation through the Sexual Misconduct Accountability Process in the Office of Student Accountability and Restorative Practices. The Sexual Misconduct Accountability Process can be pursued in lieu of/or concurrent with legal prosecution and is used when the person alleged to have committed the behavior that violates the JMU Sexual Misconduct policy and is a student. The Sexual Misconduct Accountability Process will provide a prompt, fair, and impartial resolution conducted by faculty and staff who receive annual training on issues related to sexual assault, domestic violence as well as dating violence and stalking. The Office of Student Accountability and Restorative Practices is able to place charges against an Accused Student upon receipt of the completed Title IX investigation. Except in circumstances that are a threat to the safety of the campus and the community, the Office of Student Accountability and Restorative Practices will not place charges against an Accused Student without authorization from the Reporting Party. To begin a university accountability action, a student, faculty member, or staff member who feels he or she has been a victim of sexual violence can meet with a Title IX Coordinator(s) to explore options. Victims will be provided assistance and have the option to change their academic, living, transportation, and working situations after an alleged incident, if such changes are reasonably available. Accommodations or protective measures provided to the victim will be maintained as confidential to the extent that maintaining such confidentiality would not impair the ability of the institution to provide the accommodations or protective measures. The institution will, upon written request, disclose to the victim of a crime of violence (as that term is defined in Section 16 of Title 18, United States Code), or a non-forcible sex offense, the report on the results of any disciplinary proceeding conducted by the institution against a student who is the alleged perpetrator of such crime or offense.  If the victim is deceased as a result of such crime or offense, the next of kin of such victim shall be treated as the alleged victim for these purposes.

Sexual Assault

Sexual assault includes offenses that meet the definition of rape, fondling, incest, or statutory rape as used in the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program. Per the National Incident-Based Reporting System User Manual from the FBI UCR Program, a sex offense “is any sexual act directed against another person, without the consent of the victim, including instances where the victim is incapable of giving consent.” 

• Rape – the penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any body part or object, or oral penetration by a sex organ of another person, without the consent of the victim;
• Fondling - the touching of the private body parts of another person for the purpose of sexual gratification, without the consent of the victim, including instances where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his/her age or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental incapacity;
• Incest - Sexual intercourse between persons who are related to each other within the degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by law;
• Statutory rape - Sexual intercourse with a person who is under the statutory age of consent.

Virginia defines sexual assault as offenses involving sexual penetration or sexual contact with any person by force or threat of force, fear, intimidation, ruse, or through the use of a person’s mental incapacity or physical helplessness, or any other attempt to force sexual penetration/contact on any person. Sexual Assault offenses meet the definition of rape, fondling, incest, or statutory rape.  The Code of Virginia under Article 7 Criminal Sexual Assault which can be accessed at http://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacodefull/title18.2/chapter4/article7/   provides additional information regarding Virginia law listed below.

Section:                    Criminal Sexual Assault

18.2-61                      Rape

1. If any person has sexual intercourse with a complaining witness, whether or not his or her spouse, or causes a complaining witness, whether or not his or her spouse, to engage in sexual intercourse with any other person and such act is accomplished (i) against the complaining witness's will, by force, threat or intimidation of or against the complaining witness or another person; or (ii) through the use of the complaining witness's mental incapacity or physical helplessness; or (iii) with a child under age 13 as the victim, he or she shall be guilty of rape. 

18.2-67.1                    Forcible sodomy

        A. An accused shall be guilty of forcible sodomy if he or she engages in cunnilingus, fellatio, anilingus, or anal
        intercourse with a complaining witness whether or not his or her spouse, or causes a complaining witness,
        whether or not his or her spouse, to engage in such acts with any other person, and   1.  The complaining
        witness is less than 13 years of age; or 2.  The act is accomplished against the will of the complaining
        witness, by force, threat, or intimidation of or against the complaining witness or another person, or through
        the use of the complaining witness's mental incapacity or physical helplessness.
 
 18.2-67.2                   Object sexual penetration

1. An accused shall be guilty of inanimate or animate object sexual penetration if he or she penetrates the labia majora or anus of a complaining witness, whether or not his or her spouse, other than for a bona fide medical purpose, or causes such complaining witness to so penetrate his or her own body with an object or causes a complaining witness, whether or not his or her spouse, to engage in such acts with any other person or to penetrate, or to be penetrated by an animal, and 1. The complaining witness is less than 13 years of age; or 2.  The act is accomplished against the will of the complaining witness, by force, threat, or intimidation of or against the complaining witness or another person, or through the use of the complaining
   witness's mental incapacity or physical helplessness.

 18.2-67.3.                   Aggravated sexual battery

1. An accused is guilty of aggravated sexual battery if he or she sexually abuses the complaining witness, and 1. The complaining witness is less than 13 years of age; or 2. The act is accomplished through the use of the complaining witness's mental incapacity or physical helplessness; or 3. The offense is committed by a parent, step-parent, grandparent, or step-grandparent and the complaining witness is at least 13 but less than 18 years of age; or 4. The act is accomplished against the will of the complaining witness by force, threat, or intimidation, and a. The complaining witness is at least 13 but less than 15 years of age; or b. The accused causes serious bodily or mental injury to the complaining witness; or c. The accused uses or threatens to use a dangerous weapon; or 5. The offense is not a recognized form of treatment in the profession, and is committed, without the express consent of the patient, by (i) a massage therapist, or a person purporting to be a massage therapist, during an actual or purported practice of massage therapy, as those terms are defined in § 54.1-3000; (ii) a person practicing or purporting to practice the healing arts, during an actual or purported practice of the healing arts, as those terms are defined in §§ 54.1-2900 and 54.1-2903; or (iii) a physical therapist, or a person purporting to be a physical therapist, during an actual or purported practice of physical therapy, as those terms are defined in § 54.1-3473.

18.2-67.4                   Sexual battery

18. An accused is guilty of sexual battery if he sexually abuses, as defined in § 18.2-67.10, (i) the complaining witness against the will of the complaining witness, by force, threat, intimidation, or ruse, (ii) within a two-year period, more than one complaining witness or one complaining witness on more than one occasion intentionally and without the consent of the complaining witness, (iii) an inmate who has been committed to jail or convicted and sentenced to confinement in a state or local correctional facility or regional jail, and the accused is an employee or contractual employee of, or a volunteer with, the state or local correctional facility or regional jail; is in a position of authority over the inmate; and knows that the inmate is under the jurisdiction of the state or local correctional facility or regional jail, or (iv) a probationer, parolee, or a pretrial defendant or post trial offender under the jurisdiction of the Department of Corrections, a local community-based probation services agency, a pretrial services agency, a local or regional jail for the purposes of imprisonment, a work program or any other parole/probationary or pretrial services or agency and the accused is an employee or contractual employee of, or a volunteer with, the Department of Corrections, a local community-based probation services agency, a pretrial services agency or a local or regional jail; is in a position of authority over an offender; and knows that the offender is under the jurisdiction of the Department of Corrections, a local community-based probation services agency, a pretrial services agency or a local or regional jail. 

Consent is not defined by the Commonwealth of Virginia in state criminal law. To constitute a lack of consent, acts must be committed by force, intimidation, or through the use of the victim’s mental incapacity or physical helplessness. Intoxication may indicate an inability to give consent.

James Madison University defines consent: An outward demonstration through understandable words or actions that convey a knowing and voluntary agreement to engage in mutually agreed-upon sexual activity. Consent cannot be obtained by physical or verbal coercion that is express or implied, which includes the use of intimidation, threats, force, or duress. Consent cannot be obtained by ignoring or acting in spite of the objections of another, by previous consent, or by taking advantage of another person’s incapacitation or physical helplessness where one knows or reasonably should have known of such incapacitation or helplessness. An individual who is incapacitated because of age, disability, voluntary activity, or through the acts of others cannot give consent. Silence or absence of resistance does not imply consent. Consent is voluntary and may be withdrawn at any time by communicating the withdrawal through an outward demonstration of understandable words or actions. 

James Madison University defines incapacitation as the Physical or mental inability to make informed, rational judgments. States of incapacitation include, without limitation, sleep, blackouts, unconsciousness, and the inability to make such decisions due to the voluntary or involuntary use of alcohol or drugs. Incapacitation may occur because of age, disability, voluntary activity, or through the acts of others.  

What to do if sexually assaulted

If a sex offense should occur, the victim should consider the following actions:

                 Seek help: 

• The victim is urged to go to a safe place and contact a friend or family member for support.
• After an incident of sexual assault, the victim should begin considering seeking medical attention.
  You can go to the emergency room at the hospital, and tell them you were sexually assaulted. Sentara RMH Hospital will be able to examine and treat you after an assault, whether or not you choose to report the assault to the police.
• JMU students may also seek medical attention at the JMU Health Center, University Health Center - 540-568-6178, located at the Student Success Center. They can help with emergency contraception, medical exam, and STD testing.
• Consider advocacy services available through JMU’s Victim Advocacy Services, which provide support to victims as they navigate their options and resources Advocacy services are available as a walk-in service as well as by appointment. To access services, come to the Victim Advocacy suite during regular business hours or email victimadvocacy@jmu.edu to schedule a time to meet.
• Counseling Center - 540-568-6552, Student Success Center - counseling, advocacy, and consultation
• Consider the Collins Center & Child Advocacy Center - 540-432-6430, 217 South Liberty Street #205, Harrisonburg VA, an off-campus crisis counseling, support, and advocacy center.
• Contact JMU Title IX Coordinator, Title IX Amy Sirocky-Meck 540-568-5214 Holland Yates Hall (formerly Madison Hall) Suite 4020, JMU Harrisonburg, VA 22807.
• You may also notify law enforcement, call the JMU Police Department if the incident occurred on campus at 540-568-6911; if the incident happened in the City of Harrisonburg or the surrounding area call Emergency 911, or business at 540-434-4436 for assistance. Although the university strongly encourages all members of its community to report violations to law enforcement, it is the victim’s choice whether or not to make such a report and victims have the right to decline involvement with the police and/or be assisted by campus authorities in notifying law enforcement if the victim chooses.

Retain Evidence

As with any crime, it is important to preserve evidence. Preserving evidence may assist in proving that the alleged criminal offense occurred and/or may be helpful in obtaining a protection order. If the offense occurred within the past five days, evidence of criminal activity may be preserved and may be collected even if you chose not to make a report to law enforcement. The evidence collected can be held until a decision is made about pursuing legal action. In instances where the victim wishes to remain anonymous, the evidence collected at the hospital will be forwarded to the Division of Consolidated Laboratory Service of the Virginia Department of General Services as an anonymous physical evidence recovery kit where it will be stored for two years. During this time the victim may choose to release the kit to law enforcement.

• 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 until the police have had an opportunity to collect evidence if contacted. Again, preservation of evidence may assist in proving that the alleged criminal offense occurred or may be helpful in obtaining a protection order.
• Do not shower, bathe, or douche. Do not urinate, if possible. Do not eat, drink liquids, smoke, or brush your teeth if oral contact took place.
• Keep the clothes worn during the offense. If clothes are changed, place clothes in a paper bag (evidence deteriorates in plastic).
• Write down everything you can remember about the assailant and the assault.

• Get medical attention immediately. Going to the emergency room after a sexual assault can be a scary and confusing experience. In Virginia, evidence may be collected even if you chose not to make a report to law enforcement. The evidence collected can be held until a decision is made about pursuing legal action. Sentara RMH Hospital can assist with collecting evidence with a physical evidence recovery kit. When you arrive at the emergency room, you will be checked in at the triage desk where you will be registered. At this time, a Collins Center advocate will be called as well as a specialized nurse called a SANE nurse (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner). If the victim is a student, the SANE nurse requests of the victim that they allow the nurse call a professional counselor from the university to let them know of the assault. Students can also call the JMU Health Center’s The Well at 540-568-2831 to request a member to accompany them if they desire. The SANE nurses are bound by the limits of confidentiality, however, and may be able to only let the counselor know that an assault occurred on a student, but be unable to name that student if the victim wishes not to be named.

        The Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner’s program, otherwise known as SANE, is a program set up specifically to
        gather forensic evidence from victims of sexual assault. SANE nurses are on call for duties to be performed at
        the Sentara RMH Emergency Room. Police investigators suggest that victims receive an exam by a SANE
        nurse if they are interested in pressing charges. SANE exams are administered to walk-in victims. SANE
        nurses are trained in examination techniques, forensic practice, how to collaborate with law enforcement
        officers, and how to present evidence as expert witnesses in the courtroom. The SANE exam is an
        evidentiary exam, not a diagnostic one. There is a SANE nurse available 24/7 and exams are done for both
        adult and pediatric victims. 

• For the exam, the SANE nurse obtains a brief medical history and may ask for some detail about the assault that will help to know what areas of physical examination are most important for a thorough collection of forensic evidence. Blood, hair, and specific body fluids will be collected and packaged in a manner prescribed by the Virginia State Crime Laboratory. Specimens are labeled in detail and then sealed in a box that is remitted to law enforcement, following the rules of chain of custody. The investigating agency is then responsible for carrying the sealed evidence to the crime lab. (The Virginia Supreme Court can pay expenses related to the PERK kit exam, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund applies, per Virginia Code Section 19.2-368.18). In instances where the victim wishes to remain anonymous, the evidence will be forwarded to the Division of Consolidated Laboratory Service of the Virginia Department of General Services as an anonymous physical evidence recovery kit and where it will be stored for two years. During this time the victim may choose to release the kit to law enforcement.
  
  
•  At the completion of the exam, the victim is offered prophylaxis for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and pregnancy and is given follow-up instructions depending on any findings during the exam. Follow-up can be through a private physician, the University Health Center, and/or the Public Health Department of Rockingham/Harrisonburg.                         

• If possible, tell someone all the details remembered about the assault and write everything you remember as soon as possible. 

Report the Assault    

• If the victim requests notification to law enforcement, call the police department in the jurisdiction where the crime occurred. Call the JMU police Department if the incident occurred on campus at 540-568-6911; if the incident happened in the City of Harrisonburg or Rockingham County call Emergency 911, or Business 540-434-4436 for assistance. Assistance will be provided to help the victim notify the appropriate law enforcement authorities if requested. The responding officer’s primary responsibility will be the victim’s physical well-being and emergency medical needs.  An investigation will follow to include obtaining preliminary statements, preserving the crime scene, and collection of evidence. An investigator trained in sexual assault will respond and continue the investigation. If the assault occurred within 72 hours, at the hospital, the victim will be encouraged to allow an examination by a sexual assault nurse examiner to obtain evidence (Physical Evidence Recovery Kit). Law enforcement will help obtain an emergency protective order for the victim if applicable and provide guidance through the criminal complaint process.
  
  
• Individuals may also report sex offenses to the JMU Title IX Coordinator, Title IX Amy Sirocky-Meck 540-568-5214 Holland Yates Hall (formerly Madison Hall) Suite 4020, JMU Harrisonburg, VA 22807. You will be provided with written notification, both students and employees, about victim services within the institution and in the community. Information provided will include information on existing counseling, health, mental health, victim advocacy, legal assistance, visa and immigration assistance, student financial aid along with other services available for victims, both within the institution and in the community, and how to request accommodations and protective measures. This information will include options for and available assistance to victims for changing academic, living, transportation, and working situations if requested by the victim and reasonably available and an explanation of the procedures for institutional disciplinary action. The institution must make such accommodations or provide such protective measures if they are reasonably available, regardless of whether the victim chooses to report the crime to campus police or local law enforcement. University accountability action is an option that can be pursued in lieu of/or concurrent with legal prosecution. To begin a university accountability action, a student, faculty member, or staff member who feels he or she has been a victim of sexual assault can meet with a Title IX coordinator(s) to explore options. Accountability proceedings will provide a prompt, fair, and impartial investigation and resolution conducted by officials who receive annual training on issues related to sexual assault, domestic violence as well as dating violence, and stalking and how to conduct an investigation and hearing process that protects the safety of victims and promotes accountability. The JMU Student Accountability and Restorative Practices Accountability response to referral(s) related to act(s) of sexual violence can result in a charge of “Sexual Misconduct” against the accused. 

The Counseling Center offers a resource that provides free and confidential short and long-term individual, group, and emergency sexual trauma counseling services for JMU students. They can also provide advocacy services for survivors, including assistance with medical, accountability, and legal referrals; and also consultation services, including consultation around Title IX, for faculty, staff, family members, and friends of survivors of sexual trauma. During the initial assessment appointment, a counselor will help students decide which service(s) would be the most beneficial. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 requires university employees to report disclosures of sexual harassment and sexual assault to the Office of Equal Opportunity in an effort to foster and maintain an environment free from sex discrimination, and so that the university can provide a prompt and effective response. Most JMU faculty, staff, and student employees must abide by these requirements. Staff members of the Counseling Center are exempt from Title IX reporting requirements, and communications with clients are privileged by law; therefore, allowing the discussion of Title IX implications with faculty, staff, family members, and students as needed, and they can serve as clinicians for students directly impacted by sexual trauma. The Counseling Center is a safe and confidential environment for discussion of sexual harassment and assault.

The university must respond to complaints concerning Title IX to the extent of the victim’s cooperation and consent. University offices including the Office of Equal Opportunity, Title IX, the Office of Student Accountability and Restorative Practices, the JMU Health Center’s The Well, and the University Counseling Center, will work cooperatively to ensure that the victim’s health, physical safety, work, and academic status are protected, pending the outcome of a university investigation of the complaint. Additionally, personally identifiable information about the victim will be treated as confidential and only shared with persons with a specific need to know who is investigating, adjudicating the complaint, or delivering resources or support services to the victim to the extent permissible by law. Any accommodations or protective measures provided to the victim will remain confidential to the extent that maintaining such confidentiality would not impair the ability of the institution to provide the accommodations or protective measures. The University does not publish the name of crime victims nor identifiable information regarding victims in the campus police departments' Daily Crime Log or in Timely Warning notifications or Community Crime Alerts. Publicly available recordkeeping, including Clery Act reporting and disclosures, will be conducted without the inclusion of personally identifying information about the victim. Reports of all domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking made to the JMU Police Department will automatically be referred to the Title IX Coordinator for investigation and services regardless if the victim chooses to pursue criminal charges.      

Additionally, a Mutual Aid agreement with the Department of State Police, for the use of their joint forces, both regular and auxiliary, equipment, and materials when needed in the investigation of any felony criminal sexual assault or medically unattended death occurring on property owned or controlled by the institution of higher education or any death resulting from an incident occurring on such property has been enacted.

Following any incident, victims are encouraged to make a report to JMU Police Department or local police if they have not done so previously. Remember, this action does not obligate prosecution, but it does make legal action possible if the decision to prosecute is made at a later date. Police have the unique legal authority to seek and execute search warrants, collect forensic evidence that may have been left at the scene or at other relevant locations, and make an arrest when supported by probable cause to believe a crime has been committed. The earlier an incident is reported, the easier it is to collect valuable evidence and investigate the incident and obtain protective orders. JMU police will help victims with obtaining protection orders.

The institution will, upon written request, disclose to the victim of a crime of violence (as that term is defined in Section 16 of Title 18, United States Code), or a non-forcible sex offense, the report on the results of any disciplinary proceeding conducted by the institution against a student who is the alleged perpetrator of such crime or offense.  If the victim is deceased as a result of such crime or offense, the next of kin of such victim shall be treated as the alleged victim for these purposes.

Law enforcement in concert with other entities such as Title IX, the JMU Health Center, Sentara RMH Hospital, and the Office of Student Accountability and Restorative Practices, along with the JMU Health Center’s The Well and the JMU Counseling Center will help coordinate medical, counseling and support services for students. Sentara RMH Hospital and the Collins Center along with the Harrisonburg Rockingham Victim Witness Program will coordinate for non-student victims.

Bystander intervention means safe and positive options that may be carried out by an individual or individuals to prevent harm or intervene when there is a risk of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. Bystander intervention includes recognizing situations of potential harm, understanding institutional structures and cultural conditions that facilitate violence, overcoming barriers to intervening, identifying safe and effective intervention options, and taking action to intervene. Bystander interventions can include speaking up when you hear threatening language. Confront people who seclude, hit on, and try to make out with or have sexual contact or penetration against someone who is incapacitated. Hold people accountable for their actions. Respectfully challenge comments that degrade women. Watch out for your friends and fellow students/employees. If you see someone who looks like they could be in trouble or need help, ask if they are OK.

Risk reduction entails options designed to decrease perpetration and bystander inaction, and to increase empowerment for victims in order to promote safety and to help individuals and communities address conditions that facilitate violence.  Risk reduction consists of options to address violence before it happens.  With no intent to victim blame and in recognizing that only rapists are responsible for rape, there are some things you can do to help reduce your risk of being assaulted.  When you go to a social gathering, go with a group of friends. Arrive together, check in with each other throughout the evening, and leave together. Don't allow yourself to be isolated by someone you don’t trust or someone you don’t know. Trust your intuition. If a particular situation makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, remove yourself from the situation. Don’t be afraid to follow your instincts. Don’t leave your drink unattended while talking, dancing, using the restroom, or making a phone call. If you’ve left your drink alone, just get a new one.

Domestic Violence

Domestic abuse is “any threat or act of violence, including forceful detention which results in physical injury or places one in reasonable apprehension of bodily injury and which is committed by a person against such person’s family or household member”. In essence, domestic violence is any violent or controlling behavior by a person toward a spouse or partner. Although the partner is the primary target, domestic abuse also affects the children in the household, extended family members, and even the community at large. 

The Virginia statute for domestic violence is § 18.2-57.2. Assault and battery against a family or household member; penalty.

• Any person who commits an assault and battery against a family or household member is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor.

• Upon a conviction for assault and battery against a family or household member, where it is alleged in the warrant, petition, information, or indictment on which a person is convicted, that such person has been previously convicted of two offenses against a family or household member of (i) assault and battery against a family or household member in violation of this section, (ii) malicious wounding or unlawful wounding in violation of § 2-51, (iii) aggravated malicious wounding in violation of § 18.2-51.2, (iv) malicious bodily injury by means of a substance in violation of § 18.2-52, (v) strangulation in violation of § 18.2-51.6, or (vi) an offense under the law of any other jurisdiction which has the same elements of any of the above offenses, in any combination, all of which occurred within a period of 20 years, and each of which occurred on a different date, such person is guilty of a Class 6 felony.

The  VAWA term “domestic violence” includes felony or misdemeanor crimes of violence committed:

    1. By a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the victim;

    2. By a person with whom the victim shares a child in common;

    3. By a person who is cohabitating with, or has cohabitated with, the victim as a spouse or intimate partner;

    4. By a person similarly situated to a spouse of the victim under the domestic or family violence laws of the 
        jurisdiction in which the crime of violence occurred; or

    5. By any other person against an adult or youth victim who is protected from that person’s acts under the
        domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction in which the crime of violence occurred.
        (42 U.S.C. 13925(a))

Consent is not defined by the Commonwealth of Virginia in state criminal law. To constitute a lack of consent, acts must be committed by force, intimidation, or through the use of the victim’s mental incapacity or physical helplessness. Intoxication may indicate an inability to give consent.

James Madison University defines consent: An outward demonstration through understandable words or actions that convey a knowing and voluntary agreement to engage in mutually agreed-upon sexual activity. Consent cannot be obtained by physical or verbal coercion that is express or implied, which includes the use of intimidation, threats, force, or duress. Consent cannot be obtained by ignoring or acting in spite of the objections of another, by previous consent, or by taking advantage of another person’s incapacitation or physical helplessness where one knows or reasonably should have known of such incapacitation or helplessness. An individual who is incapacitated because of age, disability, voluntary activity, or through the acts of others cannot give consent. Silence or absence of resistance does not imply consent. Consent is voluntary and may be withdrawn at any time by communicating the withdrawal through an outward demonstration of understandable words or actions.

James Madison University defines incapacitation as the Physical or mental inability to make informed, rational judgments. States of incapacitation include, without limitation, sleep, blackouts, unconsciousness, and the inability to make such decisions due to the voluntary or involuntary use of alcohol or drugs. Incapacitation may occur because of age, disability, voluntary activity, or through the acts of others. 

What to do in an incident of domestic violence:

If an incident of domestic violence should occur, the victim should consider the following actions:

Seek help/Obtain medical attention

• The victim is urged to go to a safe place and contact a friend or family member for support.
• After an incident of domestic violence, the victim should begin considering seeking medical attention if needed. You can go to the emergency room at the hospital. Sentara RMH Hospital will be able to examine and treat you after an assault, whether or not you choose to report the assault to the police.
• JMU students may also seek medical attention at the JMU Health Center, University Health Center - 540-568-6178, located at the Student Success Center.
• Consider advocacy services available through JMU’s Victim Advocacy Services, which provide support to victims as they navigate their options and resources Advocacy services are available as a walk-in service as well as by appointment. To access services, come to the Victim Advocacy suite during regular business hours or email victimadvocacy@jmu.edu to schedule a time to meet.
• Counseling Center - 540-568-6552, Student Success Center - counseling, advocacy, and consultation
• Consider the Collins Center & Child Advocacy Center - 540-432-6430, 217 South Liberty Street #205,
• Harrisonburg VA, is an off-campus crisis counseling, support, and advocacy center.
• Helpful information can be found at this link https://www.dss.virginia.gov/community/dv/
• Virginia Crime Victim Assistance INFO-LINE (1-888-887-3418) and the Virginia Family Violence and Sexual Assault Hotline (1-800-838-8238).
• Contact JMU Title IX Coordinator, Title IX Amy Sirocky-Meck 540-568-5214 Holland Yates Hall (formerly Madison Hall) Suite 4020, JMU Harrisonburg, VA 22807.
• You may also notify law enforcement, call the JMU Police Department if the incident occurred on campus at 540-568-6911; if the incident happened in the City of Harrisonburg or the surrounding area call Emergency 911, or business at 540-434-4436 for assistance. Although the university strongly encourages all members of its community to report violations to law enforcement, again, it is the victim’s choice whether or not to make such a report and victims have the right to decline involvement with the police and/or be assisted by campus authorities in notifying law enforcement if the victim chooses.

• As with any crime, it is important to preserve evidence. The thorough, complete, and accurate collection of evidence is a vital and often key requirement for the successful investigation and prosecution of domestic assault. Preserving evidence may assist in proving that the alleged criminal offense occurred and/or may be helpful in obtaining a protection order. 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 until the police have had an opportunity to collect evidence if contacted.
• Physical evidence can include injuries of the victim, evidentiary articles that substantiate an attack, and the crime scene itself. Photographs of injuries and the crime scene showing a struggle that occurred can be invaluable.

 Report the Assault

• If the victim requests notification to law enforcement, call the police department in the jurisdiction where the crime occurred. Call the JMU police Department if the incident occurred on campus at 540-568-6911; if the incident happened in the City of Harrisonburg call Emergency 911, or Business at 540-434-4436 for assistance. Victims will be assisted by campus authorities, if requested, in notifying law enforcement if the victim so chooses but may also decline to notify law enforcement. Due to the seriousness of these offenses and the delicate nature of the investigations involved, it is important for police to undertake diligent investigations in order to increase the reporting of these crimes. Reducing recidivism and serial criminal offenses through the apprehension and prosecution of the assailants is a priority. The responding officer’s primary responsibility will be the victim’s physical well-being and emergency medical needs with an investigation to follow to include obtaining preliminary statements, preserving evidence, and documentation. This action does not obligate prosecution, but it does make legal action possible if the decision to prosecute is made at a later date. Police have unique legal authority to seek and execute search warrants, and to collect forensic evidence that may have been left at the scene or at other relevant locations.

  Police will arrest the aggressor when probable cause exists by the totality of the circumstances which may
  include: 

1. Evidence that any of the parties acted in self-defense.
2. A history of violence (prior assault convictions) of the parties involved, including history of calls for service.
3. The relative severity of injuries inflicted on all parties, plus consideration of whether the injuries were offensive or defensive.
4. The relative size, bulk, and strength of the parties involved.
5. Evidence from persons involved in or witnesses to the incident.
6. The likelihood of future injury to any party.
7. Current or previous protection orders filed against either party.

Individuals may also report an incident of domestic violence to the JMU Title IX Coordinator, Title IX Amy Sirocky-Meck 540-568-5214 Holland Yates Hall (formerly Madison Hall) Suite 4020, JMU Harrisonburg, VA 22807. You will be provided with written information providing information on existing counseling, health, mental health, victim advocacy, legal assistance, visa and immigration assistance along with other services available for victims, both within the institution and in the community. This information will also include options for and available assistance to victims for changing academic, living, transportation, and working situations if requested by the victim and reasonably available. University accountability action is an option that can be pursued in lieu of/or concurrent with legal prosecution. To begin a university accountability action, a student, faculty member, or staff member who feels he or she has been a victim of domestic violence can meet with a Title IX coordinator(s) to explore options.  Accountability proceedings will provide a prompt, fair, and impartial investigation and resolution conducted by officials who receive annual training on issues related to sexual assault, domestic violence as well as dating violence, and stalking and how to conduct an investigation and hearing process that protects the safety of victims and promotes accountability. The JMU Student Accountability and Restorative Practices Accountability response to referral(s) related to act(s) of domestic violence can result in a charge of “Sexual Misconduct” against the accused.

The Counseling Center offers is a resource that provides free and confidential short and long-term individual, group, and emergency sexual trauma counseling services for JMU students. They can also provide advocacy services for survivors, including assistance with medical, accountability, and legal referrals; and consultation services, including consultation around Title IX, for faculty, staff, family members, and friends of survivors of sexual trauma. During the initial assessment appointment, a counselor will help students decide which service(s) would be the most beneficial. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 requires all university employees to report disclosures of sexual harassment and sexual assault in an effort to foster and maintain an environment free from sex discrimination, and so that the university can provide a prompt and effective response. Most JMU faculty, staff, and student employees must abide by these requirements. Staff members of the Counseling Center are exempt from Title IX reporting requirements, and communications with clients are privileged by law; therefore, allowing the discussion of Title IX implications with faculty, staff, family members, and students as needed, and they can serve as clinicians for students directly impacted by sexual trauma. The Counseling Center is a safe and confidential environment for discussion of sexual harassment and assault.

The University must respond to complaints concerning Title IX to the extent of the victim’s cooperation and consent. University offices including Title IX, the Office of Student Accountability and Restorative Practices, the JMU Health Center’s The Well, and the University Counseling Center, will work cooperatively to ensure that the victim’s health, physical safety, work, and academic status are protected, pending the outcome of a university investigation of the complaint. Additionally, personally identifiable information about the victim will be treated as confidential and only shared with persons with a specific need to know who is investigating, adjudicating the complaint, or delivering resources or support services to the victim to the extent permissible by law. Any accommodations or protective measures provided to the victim will remain confidential to the extent that maintaining such confidentiality would not impair the ability of the institution to provide the accommodations or protective measures. The University does not publish the name of crime victims nor identifiable information regarding victims in the campus police departments' Daily Crime Log or in Timely Warning notifications or Community Crime Alerts. Publicly available recordkeeping, including Clery Act reporting and disclosures, will be conducted without the inclusion of personally identifying information about the victim. Reports of all domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking made to the JMU Police Department will automatically be referred to the Title IX Coordinator for investigation and services regardless if the victim chooses to pursue criminal charges.

Law enforcement in concert with other entities such as Title IX, the JMU Health Center, Sentara RMH Hospital, and the Office of Student Accountability and Restorative Practices, along with the JMU Health Center’s The Well and the JMU Counseling Center will help coordinate medical, counseling and support services for students. Sentara RMH Hospital and the Collins Center along with the Harrisonburg Rockingham Victim Witness Program will coordinate for non-student victims.

The institution will, upon written request, disclose to the victim of a crime of violence (as that term is defined in Section 16 of Title 18, United States Code), or a non-forcible sex offense, the report on the results of any disciplinary proceeding conducted by the institution against a student who is the alleged perpetrator of such crime or offense.  If the victim is deceased as a result of such crime or offense, the next of kin of such victim shall be treated as the alleged victim for these purposes.

Some cues or red flags that might indicate an abusive relationship:

Do you…

• Feel afraid of your partner most of the time?
• Feel that you can’t do anything right?
• Get embarrassed by your partner’s behavior toward you?
• Believe that you deserve to be hurt or mistreated?
• Avoid topics or situations out of fear of angering your partner.

• Humiliate, criticize, or yell at you?
• Blame you for his behavior?
• Threaten to hurt you?
• Threaten to take your kids away?
• Threaten to harm your kids or pets?
• Force you to have sex?
• Act jealous and possessive?
• Keep you from seeing friends and family?
• Limit your access to money or necessities?
• Keep you from getting a job or going to school?
• Constantly check up on you?
• Threaten to kill or hurt himself if you leave?

Risk reduction entails options designed to decrease perpetration and bystander inaction, and to increase empowerment for victims in order to promote safety and to help individuals and communities address conditions that facilitate violence.  Pay attention to “red flags “and trust your instincts. Survivors of domestic violence frequently report that their instincts told them that there was something wrong early on but they disregarded the warning signs and didn’t know that these signs were indicative of an abusive relationship. Always take time to get to know a potential partner and watch for patterns of behavior in a variety of settings. Keeping in touch with your support system and participating in good self-care can lower your risk of being involved in an abusive relationship.

Bystander intervention means safe and positive options that may be carried out by an individual or individuals to prevent harm or intervene when there is a risk of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. Bystander intervention includes recognizing situations of potential harm, understanding institutional structures and cultural conditions that facilitate violence, overcoming barriers to intervening, identifying safe and effective intervention options, and taking action to intervene. Bystander interventions can include speaking up when you hear threatening language. Hold people accountable for their actions. Respectfully challenge comments that degrade women. Watch out for your friends and fellow students/employees. If you see someone who looks like they could be in trouble or need help, ask if they are OK. 

Dating Violence  

James Madison University is committed to providing security, education, training, and victim services to combat violence against all persons.

Virginia does not have a statute specifically making dating violence criminal, but it is a form of assault and battery, §§ 18.2-52, 18.2-57 which is criminal behavior defined as an intentional act by one person that creates an apprehension in another of an imminent harmful or offensive contact and/or inflicts physical injury on another. Under Virginia’s laws, if the defendant inflicts bodily injury on the victim based on the victim’s race, religion, color, or national origin, then the crime may be charged as a felony.

 The VAWA term for “dating violence” means:

Violence committed by a person who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim 

1. The existence of such a relationship shall be based on the reporting party’s statement and with consideration of the length of the relationship, the type of relationship, and the frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship.
2. For the purposes of this definition—
   Dating Violence includes but is not limited to, sexual or physical abuse or the threat of such abuse.
   Dating violence does not include acts covered under the definition of domestic violence. 
3. For the purposes of complying with the requirements of this section and §668.41, any incident meeting this definition is considered a crime for the purposes of Clery Act reporting. 

Consent is not defined by the Commonwealth of Virginia in state criminal law. To constitute a lack of consent, acts must be committed by force, intimidation, or through the use of the victim’s mental incapacity or physical helplessness. Intoxication may indicate an inability to give consent.

James Madison University defines consent: An outward demonstration through understandable words or actions that convey a knowing and voluntary agreement to engage in mutually agreed-upon sexual activity. Consent cannot be gained by force that is express or implied, coercion, intimidation, threats, or duress. Consent cannot be obtained by ignoring or acting in spite of the objections of another, by previous consent, or by taking advantage of another person’s incapacitation or physical helplessness where one knows or reasonably should have known of such incapacitation or helplessness. An individual who is incapacitated because of age, disability, voluntary activity or through the acts of others cannot give consent. Silence or absence of resistance does not imply consent. Consent is voluntary and may be withdrawn at any time by communicating the withdrawal through an outward demonstration of understandable words or actions. 

James Madison University defines incapacitation as the Physical or mental inability to make informed, rational judgments. States of incapacitation include, without limitation, sleep, blackouts, unconsciousness, and the inability to make such decisions due to the voluntary or involuntary use of alcohol or drugs. Incapacitation may occur because of age, disability, voluntary activity, or through the acts of others. 

What to do in an incident of dating violence

If an incident of dating violence should occur, the victim should consider the following actions:

 Seek help/Obtain medical attention

• The victim is urged to go to a safe place and contact a friend or family member for support.
• After an incident of dating violence, the victim should begin considering seeking medical attention if needed.
  You can go to the emergency room at the hospital. Sentara RMH Hospital will be able to examine and treat you after an assault, whether or not you choose to report the assault to the police.
• JMU students may also seek medical attention at the JMU Health Center, University Health Center - 540-568-6178, located at the Student Success Center.
• Consider advocacy services available through JMU’s Victim Advocacy Services, which provide support to victims as they navigate their options and resources Advocacy services are available as a walk-in service as well as by appointment. To access services, come to the Victim Advocacy suite during regular business hours or email victimadvocacy@jmu.edu to schedule a time to meet.
• Counseling Center - 540-568-6552, Student Success Center - counseling, advocacy, and consultation
• Consider the Collins Center & Child Advocacy Center - 540-432-6430, 217 South Liberty Street #205, Harrisonburg VA, an off-campus crisis counseling, support, and advocacy center.
• Contact JMU Title IX Coordinator, Title IX Amy Sirocky-Meck 540-568-5214 Holland Yates Hall (formerly Madison Hall) Suite 4020, JMU Harrisonburg, VA 22807.
• You may also notify law enforcement, call the JMU Police Department if the incident occurred on campus at 540-568-6911; if the incident happened in the City of Harrisonburg or the surrounding area call Emergency 911, or business at 540-434-4436 for assistance. Although the university strongly encourages all members of its community to report violations to law enforcement, it is the victim’s choice whether or not to make such a report and victims have the right to decline involvement with the police and/or be assisted by campus authorities in notifying law enforcement if the victim chooses.
• Helpful information can be found at this link https://www.dss.virginia.gov/community/dv/
• Virginia Crime Victim Assistance INFO-LINE (1-888-887-3418) and the Virginia Family Violence and Sexual Assault Hotline (1-800-838-8238).

Retain Evidence

• As with any crime, it is important to preserve evidence. The thorough, complete, and accurate collection of evidence is a vital and often key requirement for the successful investigation and prosecution of dating violence. Preserving evidence may assist in proving that the alleged criminal offense occurred and/or may be helpful in obtaining a protection order. 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 until the police have had an opportunity to collect evidence if contacted.
• Physical evidence can include injuries of the victim, evidentiary articles that substantiate an attack, and the crime scene itself. Photographs of injuries and the crime scene showing a struggle that occurred can be invaluable. 

Report the Assault

• If the victim requests notification to law enforcement, call the police department in the jurisdiction where the crime occurred. Call the JMU police Department if the incident occurred on campus at 540-568-6911; if the incident happened in the City of Harrisonburg call Emergency 911, or Business at 540-434-4436 for assistance. Victims will be assisted by campus authorities, if requested, in notifying law enforcement if the victim so chooses but may also decline to notify law enforcement.  The responding officer’s primary responsibility will be the victim’s physical well-being and emergency medical needs with an investigation to follow to include obtaining preliminary statements, preserving evidence, and documentation. This action does not obligate prosecution, but it does make legal action possible if the decision to prosecute is made at a later date. Police have unique legal authority to seek and execute search warrants, and to collect forensic evidence that may have been left at the scene or at other relevant locations.
• Individuals may also report an incident of dating violence to the JMU Title IX Coordinator, Title IX Amy Sirocky-Meck 540-568-5214 Holland Yates Hall (formerly Madison Hall) Suite 4020, JMU Harrisonburg, VA 22807. You will be provided with written notification, both students and employees, about victim services within the institution and in the community. Information provided will include information on existing counseling, health, mental health, victim advocacy, legal assistance, visa and immigration assistance, student financial aid along with other services available for victims, both within the institution and in the community, and how to request accommodations and protective measures. This information will include options for and available assistance to victims for changing academic, living, transportation, and working situations if requested by the victim and reasonably available and an explanation of the procedures for institutional disciplinary action. The institution must make such accommodations or provide such protective measures if they are reasonably available, regardless of whether the victim chooses to report the crime to campus police or local law enforcement. University accountability action is an option that can be pursued in lieu of/or concurrent with legal prosecution. To begin a university accountability action, a student, faculty member, or staff member who feels he or she has been a victim of dating violence can meet with a Title IX coordinator(s) to explore options.  Accountability proceedings will provide a prompt, fair, and impartial investigation and resolution conducted by officials who receive annual training on issues related to sexual assault, domestic violence as well as dating violence, and stalking and how to conduct an investigation and hearing process that protects the safety of victims and promotes accountability. The JMU Student Accountability and Restorative Practices Accountability response to referral(s) related to act(s) of dating violence can result in a charge of “Sexual Misconduct” against the accused.

The institution will, upon written request, disclose to the victim of a crime of violence (as that term is defined in Section 16 of Title 18, United States Code), or a non-forcible sex offense, the report on the results of any disciplinary proceeding conducted by the institution against a student who is the alleged perpetrator of such crime or offense.  If the victim is deceased as a result of such crime or offense, the next of kin of such victim shall be treated as the alleged victim for these purposes.

The university must respond to complaints concerning Title IX to the extent of the victim’s cooperation and consent, University offices include the Office of Equal Opportunity, Title IX, the Office of Student Accountability and Restorative Practices, the JMU Health Center’s The Well, and the University Counseling Center, will work cooperatively to ensure that the victim’s health, physical safety, work, and academic status are protected, pending the outcome of a university investigation of the complaint. Additionally, personally identifiable information about the victim will be treated as confidential and only shared with persons with a specific need to know who is investigating, adjudicating the complaint, or delivering resources or support services to the victim to the extent permissible by law. The University does not publish the name of crime victims nor identifiable information regarding victims in the campus police departments' Daily Crime Log or in Timely Warning notifications or community crime alerts. Reports of all domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking made to the JMU Police Department will automatically be referred to the Title IX Coordinator for investigation and services regardless of if the victim chooses to pursue criminal charges.

Law enforcement in concert with other entities such as Title IX, the JMU Health Center, Sentara RMH Hospital, and the Office of Student Accountability and Restorative Practices, along with the JMU Health Center’s The Well and the JMU Counseling Center will help coordinate medical, counseling and support services for students. The JMU Counseling Center offers 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. Additionally, the JMU Counseling Center offers psycho-educational programs for students on issues of relationships (this includes such topics as avoiding "toxic" relationships and violence to oneself by a dating partner). Call 540- 568-6552 or visit the website https://www.jmu.edu/counselingctr/. JMU Health Center’s The Well coordinates sexual assault and dating violence prevention, advocacy, and referral services for the JMU campus. It is ready and able to extend its services to those who are victims of dating violence. Call 540-568-2831 or visit the website. at http:www.jmu.edu.healthctr.swo. Sentara RMH Hospital and the Collins Center (540-434-2272) along with the Harrisonburg Rockingham Victim Witness Program will coordinate for non-student victims. Other resources include the Virginia Crime Victim Assistance INFO-LINE (1-888-887-3418) and the Virginia Family Violence and Sexual Assault Hotline (1-800-838-8238). 

 Red flags in a relationship might include your partner: 

• Always wanting to know where you are and who you are with.
• Not wanting you to spend time with others.
• Getting angry if you do not answer a call or text immediately.
• Always blaming you for their mistakes.
• Calling you names or constantly putting you down.
• Yelling constantly, throwing or punching objects.
• Pressuring you to do more sexually than you are ready for.

Risk reduction means options designed to decrease perpetration and bystander inaction, and to increase empowerment for victims in order to promote safety and to help individuals and communities address conditions that facilitate violence. Pay attention to the “red flags” and “trust your instincts.”  Instincts may have told them that there was something wrong early on but they disregarded the warning signs and didn’t know that these signs were indicative of an abusive relationship. Understand barriers to getting help such as fear of being judged, embarrassment and not wanting to admit that it’s a real problem. Always take time to get to know a potential partner and watch for patterns of behavior in a variety of settings. Keeping in touch with your support system and confide in them. Participating in good self-care can lower your risk of being involved in an abusive relationship.

Bystander intervention means safe and positive options that may be carried out by an individual or individuals to prevent harm or intervene when there is a risk of dating violence. It includes recognizing situations of potential harm, understanding institutional structures and cultural conditions that facilitate violence, overcoming barriers to intervening, identifying safe and effective intervention options, and taking action to intervene. Watch out for your friends and fellow students/employees. If you see someone who looks like they could be in trouble or need help, ask if they are OK. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, dial 911 on campus or 568-6911 on campus. This could be when a person is yelling at or being physically abusive toward another and it is not safe for you to interrupt. 

1. Engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to—
           A. Fear for the person’s safety or the safety of others; or
           B. Suffer substantial emotional distress.
   
   
2. For the purposes of this definition—
           A. Course of conduct means two or more acts, including, but not limited to, acts which the stalker
               directly, indirectly, or through third parties, by any action, method, device, or means follows,
               monitors, observes, surveils, threatens, or  communicates to or about, a person, or interferes with a
               person’s property.
           B.  Reasonable person means a reasonable person under similar circumstances and with similar
               identities to the victim.
           C.  Substantial emotional distress means significant mental suffering or anguish that may but does not
                 necessarily, require medical or other professional treatment or counseling Course of conduct means
                 two or more acts, including, but not limited to, acts which the stalker directly, indirectly, or through
                 third parties, by any action, method, device, or means follows, monitor, observe, surveil,
                 threatens, or communicates to, or about, a person, or interferes with a  person’s property.

Consent is not defined by the Commonwealth of Virginia in state criminal law. To constitute a lack of consent, acts must be committed by force, intimidation, or through the use of the victim’s mental incapacity or physical helplessness. Intoxication may indicate an inability to give consent.

James Madison University defines consent: An outward demonstration through understandable words or actions that convey a knowing and voluntary agreement to engage in mutually agreed-upon sexual activity. Consent cannot be obtained by physical or verbal coercion that is express or implied, which includes the use of intimidation, threats, force, or duress. Consent cannot be obtained by ignoring or acting in spite of the objections of another, by previous consent, or by taking advantage of another person’s incapacitation or physical helplessness where one knows or reasonably should have known of such incapacitation or helplessness. An individual who is incapacitated because of age, disability, voluntary activity, or through the acts of others cannot give consent. Silence or absence of resistance does not imply consent. Consent is voluntary and may be withdrawn at any time by communicating the withdrawal through an outward demonstration of understandable words or actions.

What to do in an incident of domestic violence

If an incident of stalking should occur, the victim should consider the following actions:

Seek help

• The victim is urged to go to a safe place and contact a friend or family member for support. Assess immediate safety needs.
• Consider advocacy services available through JMU’s Victim Advocacy Services, which provide support to victims as they navigate their options and resources Advocacy services are available as a walk-in service as well as by appointment. To access services, come to the Victim Advocacy suite during regular business hours or email victimadvocacy@jmu.edu to schedule a time to meet.
• Counseling Center - 540-568-6552, Student Success Center - counseling, advocacy, and consultation
• Consider the Collins Center & Child Advocacy Center - 540-432-6430, 217 South Liberty Street #205, Harrisonburg VA, an off-campus crisis counseling, support, and advocacy center.
• Contact JMU Title IX Coordinator, Title IX Amy Sirocky-Meck 540-568-5214 Holland Yates Hall (formerly Madison Hall) Suite 4020, JMU Harrisonburg, VA 22807.
• You may also notify law enforcement, call the JMU Police Department if the incident occurred on campus at 540-568-6911; if the incident happened in the City of Harrisonburg or the surrounding area call Emergency 911, or business at 540-434-4436 for assistance. Although the university strongly encourages all members of its community to report violations to law enforcement, it is the victim’s choice whether or not to make such a report and victims have the right to decline involvement with the police and/or be assisted by campus authorities in notifying law enforcement if the victim chooses.
• Helpful information can be found at this link https://www.dss.virginia.gov/community/dv/
• Virginia Crime Victim Assistance INFO-LINE (1-888-887-3418) and the Virginia Family Violence and Sexual Assault Hotline (1-800-838-8238).

Retain Evidence:

• As with any crime, it is important to preserve evidence. The thorough, complete, and accurate collection of evidence is a vital and often key requirement for the successful investigation and prosecution of stalking. Preserving evidence may assist in proving that the alleged criminal offense occurred and/or may be helpful in obtaining a protection order. 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 until the police have had an opportunity to collect evidence if contacted.
• Physical and evidentiary articles that substantiate the crime such as text messages, voicemails, videos, letters, photos, cards, unwanted items or gifts, and emails should be saved. You should also write down the times, places, and dates all the incidents occurred. You should include the names and contact information of people who witnessed what happened and provide this information to the police.

Report the Incident:

• If the victim requests notification to law enforcement, call the police department in the jurisdiction where the crime occurred. Call the JMU police Department if the incident occurred on campus at 540-568-6911; if the incident happened in the City of Harrisonburg call Emergency 911, or Business at 540-434-4436 for assistance. Victims will be assisted by campus authorities, if requested, in notifying law enforcement if the victim so chooses but may also decline to notify law enforcement. The responding officer’s primary responsibility will be the victim’s physical well-being and assess safety needs with an investigation to follow including obtaining preliminary statements, preserving evidence, and documentation. This action does not obligate prosecution, but it does make legal action possible if the decision to prosecute is made at a later date. Police have unique legal authority to seek and execute search warrants, and to collect forensic evidence that may have been left at the scene or at other relevant locations.
• Individuals may also report an incident of stalking to the JMU Title IX Coordinator, Title IX Amy Sirocky-Meck 540-568-5214 Holland Yates Hall (formerly Madison Hall) Suite 4020, JMU Harrisonburg, VA 22807. You will be provided with written notification, both students and employees, about victim services within the institution and in the community. Information provided will include information on existing counseling, health, mental health, victim advocacy, legal assistance, visa and immigration assistance, student financial aid along with other services available for victims, both within the institution and in the community, and how to request accommodations and protective measures. This information will include options for and available assistance to victims for changing academic, living, transportation, and working situations if requested by the victim and reasonably available and an explanation of the procedures for institutional disciplinary action. The institution must make such accommodations or provide such protective measures if they are reasonably available, regardless of whether the victim chooses to report the crime to campus police or local law enforcement. University accountability action is an option that can be pursued in lieu of/or concurrent with legal prosecution. To begin a university accountability action, a student, faculty member, or staff member who feels he or she has been a victim of sexual assault can meet with a Title IX coordinator(s) to explore options.  Accountability proceedings will provide a prompt, fair, and impartial investigation and resolution conducted by officials who receive annual training on issues related to sexual assault, domestic violence as well as dating violence, and stalking and how to conduct an investigation and hearing process that protects the safety of victims and promotes accountability. The JMU Student Accountability and Restorative Practices Accountability response to referral(s) related to act(s) of stalking can result in a charge of “Sexual Misconduct” against the accused.

The university must respond to complaints concerning Title IX to the extent of the victim’s cooperation and consent, University offices include the Office of Equal Opportunity, Title IX, the Office of Student Accountability and Restorative Practices, the JMU Health Center’s The Well, and the University Counseling Center, will work cooperatively to ensure that the victim’s health, physical safety, work, and academic status are protected, pending the outcome of a university investigation of the complaint. Additionally, personally identifiable information about the victim will be treated as confidential and only shared with persons with a specific need to know who is investigating, adjudicating the complaint, or delivering resources or support services to the victim to the extent permissible by law. The University does not publish the name of crime victims nor identifiable information regarding victims in the campus police departments' Daily Crime Log or in Timely Warning notifications or community crime alerts. Reports of all domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking made to the JMU Police Department will automatically be referred to the Title IX Coordinator for investigation and services regardless of if the victim chooses to pursue criminal charges.

 The JMU Counseling Center is a safe and confidential environment for a discussion of stalking while offering support and counseling for individuals who have experienced it. 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. Talking to someone who is trained to work with victims and survivors may help alleviate some of the symptoms that may be interfering with other aspects of your life

• Showing up at your home or place of work unannounced or uninvited.
• Sending you unwanted text messages, letters, emails, and voicemails.
• Leaving unwanted items, gifts, or flowers.
• Constantly calling you and hanging up.
• Use social networking sites and technology to track you.
• Spreading rumors about you via the internet or word of mouth.
• Making unwanted phone calls to you.
• Calling your employer or professor.
• Waiting at places you hang out.
• Damaging your home, car, or other property

Anyone can become a victim of stalking. The following are suggestions as to what you can do if someone is stalking you:

• Keeps a log of incidents including the date, time, what happened, and the names of any witnesses.  Even if you decide not to pursue prosecution, you may change your mind and it will be helpful to have documentation of every incident.
• If you have a protection order, make several copies, and carry a copy with you at all times.
• Save any packages, letters, messages, or gifts from the stalker. They may be important if you decide to report to the police.         
• To keep your address confidential, get a post office box and use it on all correspondence. Put this address on your checks. If you are being sent something from Federal Express or another company that won't mail to P.O. Boxes, change "P.O. Box" to  "Apartment" when giving your address.
• Use an answering machine to screen calls. Save all voicemail messages from the stalker, or record them to a tape recorder and save the tapes.
• You can have your phone reject calls from anonymous or unknown callers by contacting your local telephone service
• Acquaint yourself with 24-hour stores and other public, highly populated areas in your neighborhood.
• If someone is following you, never go home.
• Inform security at your place of employment that you are being stalked.
• Inform friends, family, neighbors, and other people you know that you are being stalked so that the stalker cannot get information about you from them.
• If you have a picture of your stalker, give one to people you know at the places you frequent.

Risk reduction means options designed to decrease perpetration and bystander inaction, and to increase empowerment for victims in order to promote safety and to help individuals and communities address conditions that facilitate violence. If you feel threatened on campus or in nearby areas, look for a blue-light emergency phone or call 540-568-6911 for police assistance on campus and 911 for police assistance off campus. Trust your intuition - it’s right most of the time. If someone is making you feel uncomfortable, take steps to remove yourself from the situation. Make sure your cell phone is with you and charged.

Bystander intervention means safe and positive options that may be carried out by an individual or individuals to prevent harm or intervene when there is a risk of stalking. It includes recognizing situations of potential harm, understanding institutional structures and cultural conditions that facilitate violence, overcoming barriers to intervening, identifying safe and effective intervention options, and taking action to intervene. Bystander intervention can be as simple as calling the police if you witness a serious situation in progress. Watch out for your friends and fellow students/employees. If you see someone who looks like they could be in trouble or need help, ask if they are OK.

Protective Orders

Protective orders are civil court orders meant to protect victims who have experienced or are reasonably in fear of physical violence, sexual assault, or stalking by another individual. The JMU Police Department will explain and provide assistance in the process of obtaining protective orders. An emergency protective order (EPO) aims to protect the health or safety of any person regardless of a decision to arrest. The patrol officer may request an emergency protective order for the victim for any act involving violence, force, or threat that results in bodily injury, OR places one in reasonable apprehension of death, sexual assault, or bodily injury.  Such acts include but are not limited to, any forceful detention, stalking, or criminal sexual assault in violation of Article 7 (§ 18.2-61 et seq.) of Chapter 4 of Title 18.2, OR any criminal offense that results in bodily injury or places one in reasonable apprehension of death, sexual assault, or bodily injury.  An emergency protective order is issued by a judge or magistrate, upon request of a law enforcement officer or an alleged victim.  To obtain an emergency protective order, the alleged victim must have been subjected to an act of violence, force, or threat, and the judge or magistrate finds that (i) there is probable danger of a further such act being committed by the respondent against the alleged victim or (ii) a petition or warrant for the arrest of the respondent has been issued for a criminal offense resulting from the commission of an act of violence, force, or threat.

An emergency protective order can:

1. Prohibit acts of violence, force, or threat or criminal offenses resulting in injury to person or property,
2. Prohibit contacts by the respondent with the petitioner or the petitioner's family or household members, and
3. Grant other conditions that the judge or magistrate deems necessary to prevent (i) acts of violence, force, or threat,(ii) criminal offenses resulting in injury to person or property, or (iii) communication or other contact of any kind by the respondent.
   
   This remains in effect for 72 hours unless the 72-hour period expires at a time that Court is not in session. In that case, the order is extended until 5:00 p.m. on the next business day that the Court is in session.  The victim may request a preliminary protective order, within a reasonable period of time following the incident, through the general district court. A preliminary protective order (PPO) is issued by a judge, upon request of an alleged victim or law enforcement officer. To obtain a preliminary protective order, the alleged victim must have been subjected to an act of violence, force, or threat, or a petition or warrant has been issued for the arrest of the alleged perpetrator for any criminal offense resulting from the commission of an act of violence, force, or threat.  An alleged victim must appear before a judge in person to request a preliminary protective order.

A preliminary protective order can:

1. Prohibit acts of violence, force, or threat or criminal offenses that may result in injury to person or property,
2. Prohibit contacts by the respondent with the petitioner or the petitioner's family or household members, and
3. Grant other conditions that the court deems necessary to prevent (i) acts of violence, force, or threat,
   (ii) criminal offenses resulting in injury to person or property, or (iii) communication or other contact of any kind by the respondent.

1. Prohibit acts of violence, force, or threat or criminal offenses that may result in injury to person or property,
2. Prohibit contacts by the respondent with the petitioner or the petitioner's family or household members, and
3. Grant other conditions that the court deems necessary to prevent (i) acts of violence, force, or threat,
   (ii) criminal offenses resulting in injury to person or property, or (iii) communication or other contact
   of any kind by the respondent.

A Protective Order is valid for any period of time up to a maximum of two years. It is very important to keep a copy of the protective order with you at all times. Show these to the police officer, magistrate, prosecutor, or judge if he/she violates the order. 

 A special kind of Protective Order called a Family Abuse Protective Order exists for victims who have experienced or are in fear of physical threat or violence, sexual assault, or stalking by a family member. Regardless of whether an arrest is made, if the responding officer has probable cause to believe that a danger of acts of family abuse exists, the officer shall seek an emergency protective order on behalf of the victim.  Family abuse includes any act involving violence, force, or threat that results in bodily injury or places one in reasonable apprehension of death, sexual assault, or bodily injury and that is committed by a person against such person's family or household member.  Such act includes but is not limited to, any forceful detention, stalking, criminal sexual assault in violation of Article 7 (§ 18.2-61 et seq.) of Chapter 4 of Title 18.2, or any criminal offense that results in bodily injury or places one in reasonable apprehension of death, sexual assault, or bodily injury. An abused family household member may petition the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court for a Preliminary Protective Order (PPO).  After an ex parte hearing and based on the immediate and present danger of family abuse or evidence sufficient to establish probable cause that family abuse has recently occurred, the court may issue a PPO (protecting the petitioner or his or her family, or both).  At the hearing where the PPO is issued, a hearing date for a permanent or full protective order shall be set.  The PPO is valid for up to 15 days. In addition to the restrictions and prohibitions placed in a PPO, the full protective order may require an abuser to pay for the victim and children to live elsewhere, and for the abuser to receive treatment or counseling. The victim must attend a protective order hearing at the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court.  The abuser must have notice and opportunity to attend the hearing. The full order is valid for up to two years.

If you are not able to obtain a family abuse protective order you may still be able to obtain a general emergency protective order (EPO) which aims to protect the health or safety of any person regardless of a decision to arrest.

If you are a student or an employee victim, please inform the JMU Police of any protection orders. Officers shall enforce protective orders from other states or possessions of the United States as if they were issued in the Commonwealth of Virginia. More information on protective orders can be found at http://www.courts.state.va.us/forms/district/info_sheet_protective_order_stalking.pdf

No contact orders through the university can also be put in place.   When the Accused Student is informed of the charges, he or she may be instructed to have "no direct or indirect contact" with the Reporting Party. This includes but is not limited to, verbal or non-verbal contact in person, through electronic means, or through a third. A violation of this instruction will result in a charge of J21-100 Non-compliance with an Official Request for a student Reporting Party or a charge of misconduct for a Faculty or Staff member.

Bystander Intervention

The JMU Police along with the JMU community is committed to ending sexual violence in our community by encouraging its community members to be courageous bystanders with safe and positive options for bystander interventions to prevent harm or intervene. JMU Dukes Step Up is a program to encourage fellow students to become more aware of their surroundings and to develop the skills necessary to intervene in situations involving hazing, intimate partner violence, or alcohol before they become emergencies.
             
Bystander intervention means safe and positive options that may be carried out by an individual or individuals to prevent harm or intervene when there is a risk of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. Bystander intervention includes recognizing situations of potential harm, understanding institutional structures and cultural conditions that facilitate violence, overcoming barriers to intervening, identifying safe and effective intervention options, and taking action to intervene. Bystander intervention recommendations include:

• Notice the event and interpret it as an emergency. We often choose to ignore the situation, look away, or call it something else. It is important to remember that no one has a right to be violent, even if two people are dating.
• Take Responsibility for acting. 
• Decide How to Act. In a situation potentially involving sexual assault, relationship violence, or stalking approach 
  everyone as a friend, do not be antagonistic, and avoid using violence. Be honest and direct whenever possible. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 6911 on campus or 911 off-campus.
• Choose to Act.

• Be aware of your surroundings. Knowing where you are and who is around you may help you to find a way to
  get out of a bad situation.
• Try to avoid isolated areas. It is more difficult to get help if no one is around.
• Walk with purpose. Even if you don’t know where you are going, act like you do.
• Trust your instincts. If a situation or location feels unsafe or uncomfortable, it probably isn’t the best place to be.
• Try not to load yourself down with packages or bags as this can make you appear more vulnerable.
• Make sure your cell phone is with you and charged and that you have cab money.
• Don't allow yourself to be isolated by someone you don’t trust or someone you don’t know.
• Avoid putting music headphones in both ears so that you can be more aware of your surroundings, especially if you are walking alone.
• When you go to a social gathering, go with a group of friends. Arrive together, check in with each other throughout the evening, and leave together.
• Don't leave your drink unattended while talking, dancing, using the restroom, or making a phone call. If you’ve left your drink alone, just get a new one.

Date rape drugs are colorless, tasteless, and odorless substances that can be placed in any drink, not just alcohol, undetected. They are strong relaxants the effects of which can be felt as soon as fifteen minutes after ingestion. The side effects of date rape drugs include possible blackouts, coma, impaired judgment, memory impairment, dizziness, headaches, confusion, and loss of coordination. Alcohol can intensify these
side effects. Date rape drugs often cause memory loss. Some date rape drugs remain in the system for as little as 6-8 hours, making immediate testing imperative.

Common date rape drugs are Rohypnol, GHB, ketamine, and alcohol. Alcohol remains the most commonly used date rape drug both on and off college campuses. Today it remains the substance most frequently associated with date rape and the most easily accessible sedating substance. When large enough quantities are consumed alcohol can have a tremendous sedating effect leaving anyone vulnerable to assault.

If you suspect or suspect someone you know has been drugged and/or assaulted, first, go to a safe place; call the JMU police at 540-568-6911  or the local police if off-campus by dialing 911. Go to the University Health Center and /or the local hospital’s emergency room for immediate treatment and testing.

Most importantly, remember that whether you follow these tips or not, if
someone sexually assaults you, it is not your fault. You
are never to blame for someone else's actions.
No one deserves or wants to be raped.