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Drug Free Campus and Crime Prevention Statement

 

I.       Purpose

       The purpose of this statement is to demonstrate compliance with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 (PL 101-226).  This federal legislation requires Winthrop University to publish in one document the following which demonstrates the adoption and implementation of a program to prevent the illicit use of drugs and the abuse of alcohol by its students and employees:

  A.     An annual written notification to each student and employee of the University providing the following:

1.      Standards of conduct that clearly prohibit, at a minimum, the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees on its property or as a part of any of its activities;

2.      A description of applicable legal sanctions under local, state, or federal law;

3.      A description of health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol;

4.      A clear statement of the disciplinary sanctions that Winthrop University will impose on students and employees; and

 

II.     Annual Distribution

       Each student and employee at Winthrop University will receive information on how to view a copy of this annual statement.  Written copies of this statement are available upon request.

 

III.    Standards of Conduct

  A.    The following areas of prohibited conduct for students are a part of the Student Conduct Code.

 

1.      Section IV, paragraph F - Drugs - The manufacture, distribution, sale, use, offer for sale, or possession of drugs or narcotics, or drug paraphernalia in accordance with state statutes.

2.      Section IV, paragraph W - Violation of University’s alcoholic beverage policy.

3.      Section IV, paragraph AA - Violations of University policies and procedures - Failure to abide by any published policy or procedure is prohibited, including the General Conduct Policy.

4.      Section IV, paragraph CC - Commission of any act which is a violation of a criminal law of the United States, a state law or a municipal ordinance.

 

B.   The following areas of misconduct for employees are taken from the Drug-Free Work Place Policy of Winthrop University:

 

1.      It is the policy of Winthrop University that the work place shall be free from the illegal possession, use, manufacture, or distribution of controlled substances (as defined in the Controlled Substances Act).  Controlled substances include, but are not limited to, marijuana, heroin, cocaine, and hallucinogens.

2.      The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of controlled substances on property owned or controlled by Winthrop University is prohibited.  Any illegal substances discovered on University property will be turned over to the appropriate law enforcement agency and may result in criminal prosecution.

3.      Off the job illegal activity or substance abuse which could have an adverse effect on an employee’s job performance may be considered in violation of this policy.

4.      Employees are expected to report for work and while at work to remain in condition to perform assigned duties free from the effects of controlled substances.

 

  IV.   LEGAL SANCTIONS

       Winthrop University, as a matter of policy, prohibits the commission of any act which is a violation of a criminal law of the United States, a state law, or a municipal ordinance.  Laws and ordinances prohibit the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of illegal drugs, or controlled substances by students or employees as set forth in the South Carolina Code of Laws, Section 44-53-110 et seq; the possession of drug paraphernalia (such as “roach clips,” “bongs,” water pipes, cocaine spoons) as defined in South Carolina Code of Laws, Section 44-53-110 and Section 44-53-391; the non-prescribed use of anabolic steroids as defined in South Carolina Code of Laws, Section 44-53-1510 et seq;  and the distribution or delivery of an imitation (“look alike”) non-controlled substance represented as a controlled substance as defined in South Carolina Code of Laws, Section 44-53-390

       The University also prohibits the unlawful distribution, sale, possession, or use of alcohol by students or employees as set forth in the South Carolina Code of Laws, Section 61-13-210 et seq.

       The Winthrop University Campus Police Department has authority, as set forth in the South Carolina Code of Laws, Section 23-1-60, to enforce, investigate, and take action in response to illegal activity on the campus or upon grounds under control of the University.

       Students are advised to familiarize themselves with the Winthrop University Student Conduct Code.  The Department of Student Development will provide assistance in matters concerning the Student Conduct Code.

       Employees are advised to familiarize themselves with personnel policies.  These policies can be found in the Human Resources and Affirmative Action Office in Tillman Hall.  The Human Resources and Affirmative Action Office will provide assistance in these matters.

       A description of the applicable legal sanctions for the unlawful possession or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol is contained in Appendix A which is copied direct from the Federal Register.

 

V.     HEALTH RISKS

A.    Students and employees and employees are hereby notified that the effects of       alcohol abuse include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Alcoholism

  • Damage to brain cells

  • Malnutrition (if drinker does not eat a balanced diet)

  • Increased risk of cirrhosis, ulcers heart disease, heart attack and cancers of liver, mouth, throat and stomach

  • Degeneration of muscle and bone

  • Blackouts, memory loss

  • Hallucinations

  • Poor concentration

  • Personality disorders and increased tension, anger, isolation

  • Delirium tremens (DTs) -shaking, hallucinations, etc. due to withdrawal from alcohol

  • Poor grades

  • Social conflicts

  • Accidents and injuries

  • Poor health

 

B. Students and employees are hereby notified that the effects of illegal drug usage include, but are not limited to, the following:

1.         Amphetamine

  • Loss of appetite and malnutrition

  • extreme irritability

  • Changes in emotional, social and intellectual behavior

  • Mental dependency

2.      Barbiturates

  • Slurred speech, irritability, anger

  • Drug-related deaths

  • Liver problems

  • Addiction, physical and mental

  • Extreme social withdrawal

  • Dangerous reactions when mixed with alcohol

3.      Cocaine (Coke)

  • Brain damage

  • Assaultive and irritable behavior

  • Mucus membrane damage in nose, throat and sinuses

  • Physical and mental dependence

4.      Hallucinogenic Drugs (PCP and LSD)

  • Addiction

  • Mental illness in specific personalities

  • Suicidal actions

  • Numbness in arms and legs

  • Psychotic behavior

  • Paranoia or feeling everyone is against you

  • Flashbacks for as long as two years after use

  • Intensification of sensory reactions

5.      Marijuana (Pot, Grass, Weed, Reefers Hashish) 

  • Hormone level changes

  • Irritation of membranes in throat and lungs

  • Mental response changes

  • Deceased energy and drowsiness

  • Heightened desire for sweets

  • Possible loss of muscle coordination

6.      Narcotics (Codeine, Demerol, Opium, Morphine, Heroin)

  • Addiction, physical and mental

  • Poor appetite

  • Severe constipation

  • Hepatitis

  • Depression of the central nervous system

7.      Sedatives and Tranquilizers

  • Confusions

  • Depression of central nervous system

  • Calmness and sleepiness

  • Relief of anxiety and depression temporarily

  • Addiction

  • Harmful reaction with alcohol

  • Visual and auditory problems with continued use

 

VI.     AVAILABLE DRUG OR ALCOHOL COUNSELING

       Students seeking assistance with drug or alcohol abuse problems can find free, professional and confidential help at Health and Counseling services located 203 in Crawford Building.

       Employees seeking assistance with drug or alcohol abuse problems can get initial help and a referral to a local agency by contacting the University’s Director of Human Resources and Affirmative Action of Health and Counseling Services located in 203 Crawford Building. This assistance is free, professional and confidential.

 

VII.    DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONS

       As stated in the Student Conduct Code, the purpose of imposing sanctions are two-fold: to protect the University community from behaviors that are detrimental to the educational process of the community; and to assist students in identifying acceptable parameters of their activities and consequences of future behaviors. The severity of the sanctions imposed is intended to correspond with the severity or frequency of violation, as well as the student’s willingness to recommit himself or herself to good citizenship through behaviors that fall within the conduct regulations of the University.

 

The following disciplinary sanctions may be imposed upon a student responsible for a violation either singly and/or in combination:

A.     Expulsion- a permanent disciplinary separation from the University involving denial of all student privileges.

B.     Suspension- a temporary disciplinary separation from the University involving denial of all student privileges. The student may be readmitted after a specific date and conditions are met.  Students will also be restricted on visitation to specified campus facilities.

C.     Residence Hall Separation- a removal from the residence hall community. This may be permanent of for a specified number of semesters and prohibits accessibility to all of designated residence halls and associated dining facilities.

     

    A more detailed description of disciplinary sanction is in the Student Conduct Code, a copy of which is available from the Department of Student Development, Dinkins Student Center.

 

    As stated in the Drug-Free Work Place Policy for all employees of the University, disciplinary action which may include suspension without pay and/or termination will be taken against any employee who is found to be in violation of the policy in accordance with the University’s “Guidelines for Disciplinary Action.”

 

VIII.      ANNUAL REVIEW

       The Winthrop University Police Department conducts an annual review of its drug prevention program to determine effectiveness, recommend needed changes and ensure that disciplinary sanctions are consistently enforced.

 


 

CRIME AWARENESS AND CAMPUS SECURITY ANNUAL REPORT

       Students are understandably concerned about their safety on a university campus away from home.  We at Winthrop understand this concern, and accept our responsibility to employ safety and security measures to help ensure that our students enjoy their years at Winthrop, and that their stay be as free as possible form threats to their well-being.

       Winthrop University, with its population of some 6500 students, is located within the City of Rock Hill, South Carolina, with a population of 60,000. As part of the larger community, the University shares many of the same interests and problems including the concern about crime. Crime is national problem that affects all areas, including university campuses. The passage of the Federal Student Right-To-Know and Campus Security Act (Public Law 101-542, as amended) and the Higher Education Amendments of 1992 (Public Law 102-325) which require this annual report, gives testimony to this.

       Any crime that can occur elsewhere, can and does occur on a university campus. Although Winthrop University has experienced a significantly lower incidence of rape, burglary, assault and acts of criminal trespass than has the surrounding community, we must honestly state that such incidents can and do occur. There are no sanctuaries. To avoid and prevent such incidents whenever possible, a competent residence life staff, a professional trained and maintained university police force and the students themselves, are responsible for a number of measures to ensure the protection and safety of students and their possessions as much as possible.

       Disciplinary sanctions are imposed to protect the University community from behaviors that are detrimental to the educational process and to assist students in identifying acceptable parameters of their activities, as well as the consequences of their behavior. The severity of the sanction may range from a disciplinary warning to expulsion depending upon the severity and/or frequency of the violation. Each case is evaluated on an individual basis by the Judicial Council. Under the law, the accused is afforded the right to “due process.” Both the accused and the accuser are entitled to have others present during campus disciplinary proceedings and shall be informed of the outcome of any such proceedings.

 

Crime Statistics and Crime Rates

    Recognizing that awareness of crime is in itself a preventive measure, Winthrop University provides information relating to crime statistics and security measures to prospective students, currently enrolled students, faculty and staff. The University’s Campus Police Department, in compliance with the Clery Act,  publishes crime figures for the most recent three-year period. In addition, monthly uniform crime statistics are submitted to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED).

 

Campus Police Department: Practices and Procedures

   The safety and security of the Winthrop campus are coordinated by the Campus Police Department within the Division of Student Life.  The Department has a police force of  16 commissioned officers with full arrest powers and statewide law enforcement authority. These men and women are graduates of the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy, and undergo continuous training to maintain and upgrade their skills. All are trained in first aid and CPR. All commissioned officers are armed and receive firearms training and testing at least twice yearly.

    The primary duty of the Campus Police Department is to provide as safe an environment as possible for the University community. The officers conduct foot, bicycle,  and vehicle patrols of the campus and residence hall areas 24 hours a day. On campus, Winthrop police officers enforce all regulations and laws-those of the University, the City of Rock Hill and the State of South Carolina. The Winthrop police also have a close working relationship with the Rock Hill City Police and the York County Sheriff’s Department.

    In addition to the commissioned police officers, the support staff of the Campus Police Department operates the office and telephone 24 hours a day.

    Potential criminal actions and other emergencies on campus can be reported directly by any student, faculty member, employee, or visitor to the Campus Police Department by dialing campus extension 3333. Upon receipt of the call, Winthrop police officers are dispatched immediately to he site of the complaint. They have full authority to take necessary action as warranted by the circumstances, including making arrests for any crimes committed. The officers prepare and submit reports detailing the incident, as well as follow-up investigations and actions.

    Winthrop police officers offer sessions each semester on topics of concern including personal safety, awareness and security, general crime prevention, rape prevention, and prevention of burglary and vandalism. Information on safety and security is offered to students and employees regularly through lectures, films, bulletins, crime alerts (when circumstances warrant), posters, brochures and the University’s student weekly newspaper.

    Winthrop police officers inspect campus facilities regularly, noting any discrepancies which might affect safety and security, such as broken windows and locks faulty lighting, smoke detectors or fire extinguishers. These are immediately reported for repair or correction.

    The Winthrop campus is well-lighted, and further lighting improvements are made continuously, particularly in areas frequently traveled by students.   In addition to a telephone jack in each residence hall room available for students who own telephones and public hall telephones, there are 41 outdoor emergency telephones strategically located throughout the campus. These are connected directly to the Campus Police Department. Additional sites are being considered for outdoor emergency phones.

    All the fraternity and sorority houses (independently leased, operated, and not supervised by the University) are located off campus, within the City of Rock Hill. Most are in close proximity to the campus. They are patrolled by Winthrop University Police Department and Rock Hill Police Department.

    All academic and administrative facilities and buildings are secured at night and on weekends, or whenever they are not in use. This is done by  Campus Police Officers or designated representatives. Many areas of vulnerability are equipped with electronic monitoring and/or alarm systems which signal the Campus Police Department when problems arise.

    Access by students to secured buildings or area is by written permission from the appropriate department chair.  Students with permission must sign in at the Campus Police Department prior to being admitted.  Any special events scheduled in the buildings or facilities are noted by space request forms received by the Campus Police Department prior to the event. 

    The residence halls are staffed 24 hours a day, and access is monitored and limited.  Exterior doors to each hall are locked 24 hours a day.  A Security Assistant monitors all entries from 11:30p.m. until 7:30a.m. nightly.  Entry is by student ID only.  Security Assistants check all outside doors regularly throughout the night to assure that they remain locked.  Am electronic alarm system notifies the residence supervisor when a door is opened.

    The Residence Hall Security Coordinator patrols most nights from building to building among the residence halls exclusively, checking for unsecured door and any discrepancies.  Campus Police Officers also check the residence hall doors nightly, noting and correcting problems as needed.  They are available to assist the residence supervisors when needed.

 

The Student’s Responsibility

   For optimum effectiveness, the cooperation and involvement of students themselves in the campus safety program is also necessary.   Students must assume responsibility for their own personal safety and the security of their personal belongings.  This involves taking simple precautions which help a person avoid becoming the victim of a crime.  For example, although the campus is well-lighted, the potential dangers of walking alone at night are well known and should be avoided.  Room doors should be locked at night and any time the room is unoccupied.  Valuables should be locked up and out of sight if possible.  Items such as stereos, cameras, and televisions should be marked with engraving instruments.  This service is provided by the Campus Police Department at no charge.  Bicycles should be registered and marked also and secured with a sturdy lock.  Students with cars should park in their assigned area and keep their vehicle locked at all times.  Valuables should be kept out of sight, preferably locked in the trunk. 

   Students should, and are encouraged to report any suspicious looking individuals whom they feel do not belong in their residence hall or elsewhere, or any unusual incidents of any kind to the Residence Life staff, or to the Campus Police Department.

    Students and staff should also be aware of the University’s policies and programs to prevent the illicit use of drugs and the abuse of alcohol.  These are outlined in Drug Free Campus Statement included in the Student Handbook.

 

Sexual Assault 

   In the event that a sexual assault occurs, the victim should:   stay as calm as possible; notice details about the attacker (i.e., speech, hair, clothes, scars, height, weight); preserve evidence (do not bathe, douche, or change clothes); and report the assault to and/or request the assistance in reporting crimes to the Campus Police Department (323-3333), Health Services (323-2206), Counseling Services (323-2233), or Residence Life (323-2223); if the crime occurs off-campus, call the Rock Hill Law Center (329-7200).  A complete description of procedures in the event of sexual assault is contained in the Student Handbook.

    When a sexual assault is reported, a team, usually consisting of the Director of Residence Life, the Dean of Students, Director of Counseling Services, and a counselor as appropriate, will assess the situation and recommend existing campus and community services to assist the victim.  Following the initial crisis, the team members will remain in contact with the victim.  When appropriate and reasonable, changes in the victim’s academic and living arrangements will be made.

 

 

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