Annual Security and Fire Safety Report

Dear ERAU Community,

On behalf of the men and women of the Campus Safety & Security Department, we welcome all new and returning students, visitors, staff and faculty. The mission of the Campus Safety & Security Department is to ensure student, staff and faculty success by promoting a safe and secure campus in which to study, live, work and conduct research. Our mission focuses strongly on engagement, collaboration and education.

The Campus Safety & Security Department is one of many dedicated departments offering services that are instrumental to the success of our community members. This publication includes specific information on crime reporting procedures, university policies, safety tips and crime prevention programs, as well as fire safety and crime statistics as required by law.

Community engagement and safety is critical to the success of all those who attend, work or conduct research at ERAU. I strongly encourage you to review the information provided in this report and consider how we can proactively work together to keep our campus safe and secure at all times. Contact us if you have any questions at 386-226-6480 (Daytona Beach Campus) or at 928-777-3333 (Prescott Campus) or stop by and see us in person at one of our Campus Safety locations.

Sincerely,
Jacqueline Litzinger
University Executive Director
Campus Safety & Security

ERAU Safety & Security Department

• Emergency 24/7: 928-777-3333
• Administrative: 928-777-3333
• Director of Safety & Security: 928-777-3333
• Assistant Director of Safety & Security: 928-777-3741
• EHS Programs Manager: 928-777-3738
• EagleCard Services: 928-777-3900

Prescott Police Department

• Emergency: 911
• Administrative: 928-777-1900

Prescott Fire Department

• Emergency: 911
• Administrative: 928-777-1700

Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office

• Emergency: 911
• Administrative: 928-771-3260

Life Line Ambulance Service

• Emergency: 911
• Administrative: 928-445-3814

Yavapai Regional Medical Center

• Emergency: 911
• Administrative: 928-445-2700

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Prescott Campus consists of approximately 3,000 students and some 600 faculty and staff. We are not immune to the problems of modern society. Problems of personal safety, thefts and other crimes exist on campus, as well as off campus. Do not fall into the trap of considering the campus a sanctuary. Students are considered to be mature. They are expected to obey the law and take personal responsibility for their conduct. This document is intended to heighten your awareness of your responsibilities and to demonstrate how to respond to unusual situations you may encounter.

Persons who desire additional information about Safety & Security are encouraged to contact the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Campus Safety & Security at 928-777-3333.

Tenants of Embry-Riddle residence halls can contribute greatly to their own safety, the safety of others, and the protection of personal and University property. Please take the time to read this report and follow its suggestions and directions.

By employing an attitude of personal responsibility, you will enhance the quality of life in your living area. Campus Safety & Security strongly suggests the implementation of these practices for your benefit and that of our community.

It should be stressed that the guidelines that follow are not guaranteed to shield and protect you in all situations. However, if you follow these guidelines, you will greatly diminish the probability of being a victim and substantially increase the possibility that you can handle unanticipated events in a sensible manner. An involved and empathetic citizenry; one in which each individual is willing to accept responsibility for his or her own safety, as well as willing to contribute to the community’s well-being, is the best guarantee of a safe and secure environment.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University believes that safety is everyone’s responsibility and that “security begins at home.” Our programs are designed to interact with all members of the University community at every level. Information and literature on crime prevention and personal safety is available at the Campus Safety & Security Office located in Building 14 (between the Cashiers building and the Mailroom).

The parent and student orientation programs include informational sessions on crime prevention and safety services at the University. The Campus Safety & Security office offers such services as campus “safe walk” escorts. Additionally, free seminars on personal safety topics are presented each semester and are available to the entire University community. The Department of Housing & Residence Life Resident Assistants also receive special training in safety, security and fire prevention.

In addition to our regular program of crime prevention services, the University carefully monitors crimes and other incidents, which are reported within the campus community. Incidents occurring on University property, which suggests a possible special concern for the safety of our community members, will result in a timely notice or emergency notification being distributed to the community.

Protecting Yourself

Lock the door to your apartment or residence hall room when you are asleep, showering or alone in the room. These are some of your most vulnerable moments; you need the extra protection a locked door will offer. Don’t open your door to strangers. Identify your visitor before allowing access. Inform your RA immediately and report any problems with your door’s security devices.

Do not give your name, address or phone number to strangers. Do not carry more cash with you than you anticipate needing in one trip. Also, do not flash large amounts of cash in public.

Whether traveling on foot, using public transportation or operating a personal vehicle, have a friend go with you. It’s more fun to travel with company, and there is extra safety in numbers. When going out, let your roommate, a friend or a staff member know where you are going and when you expect to return. This is extremely important when planning outdoor activities.

At night, travel in well-lit areas. Travel on the most direct and highly traveled path. Do not take shortcuts through dark or deserted areas. Always be aware of your environment. Walk and jog facing traffic whenever possible. This increases awareness of potential traffic hazards and also reduces the possibility of being followed unknowingly by someone in a vehicle. Be careful not to get too close to shadowed areas by buildings or shrubbery. Walk in the middle of the sidewalk, out of easy reach of potential attackers.

If you feel threatened or suspect you are being followed, walk toward lighted areas where there are people. Look over your shoulder frequently. This lets the follower know you are aware of both their presence and your surroundings.

There are emergency phones located throughout this campus. They are designated by the word “emergency,” and they have a blue light at the top of the call box. The phone has an emergency and non-emergency button that you can push. The phone call goes directly to our dispatcher, who in turn will notify a Safety Officer. Use these phones to contact the Campus Safety & Security office for any reason. If it is an emergency, state the call box number that is assigned to the phone you are using, and a Safety Officer will respond immediately.

When riding in a car, keep the doors locked. Park your car or motorcycle in a well-lit area. When you approach your car, have your keys ready. Look into the back and front seats to make sure the car is empty before you get in. When traveling any considerable distance, put together a survival kit. Remember that Prescott is located in a mountainous region in which the weather can change rapidly. Rapid temperature changes and spontaneous storms do occur. In periods of heavy rain, stay away from areas of known flash flooding or identified as flash flood areas. The currents created by the floods can sweep a vehicle away. Don’t pick up hitchhikers, and don’t hitchhike!

Be aware that this University has numerous types of insects and wildlife that make this campus their home. Be careful, and don’t assume that they are all harmless.

If anything makes you look twice or feel uncomfortable, call Campus Safety & Security. Report any suspicious activity to Campus Safety & Security.

If you choose to drink alcohol, please do so responsibly. Keep in mind that when you become inebriated, you are letting down your protective guard. Keep in mind thieves look for the easiest target, which often is someone who has been drinking.

Protecting Your Possessions

Lock the door when you are away from your room or apartment. Most burglaries in student housing units occur in unlocked, unoccupied rooms or apartments. Lock your door to remove the easy opportunity for thieves. This applies even if you are just down the hall. Remember that it takes less than 30 seconds to burglarize your room. Keep windows closed and locked when away from your room. This protects your belongings from both theft and surprise inclement weather.

Engrave all personal items of value with your student ID number or some other identifying number. Engraving tends to deter theft and assists in identifying possessions should they be stolen. An engraver is available at Campus Safety & Security. Keep a record of the serial numbers of all your belongings. Items of value that do not have serial numbers should be photographed. Clothing can be marked on the inside label with an indelible laundry marker.

Don’t advertise your valuables. Keep them out of sight. Arrange your room so those high-risk items, such as cameras, sound systems and televisions, are not visible from the outside when the door is open or from ground-level windows. Items of high monetary value and minimal use in a University environment (such as expensive jewelry) should be left at home. Very expensive items should be stored in a safety deposit box. Do not keep large sums of cash in your room. A bank account is safer. Remember to keep your checks in a secure place. Do not talk indiscriminately about receiving money. There is no need to advertise to potential thieves.

Do not leave your belongings unattended in public areas, such as restrooms, hallways, laundry rooms or dining rooms. If you want to keep it, keep it with you. Carry your purse or backpack close to your body and keep a tight grip on it. Mark items you regularly take to class, such as books, backpacks and calculators. Persons in laboratory classes should also mark all of their personal supplies with their name or some other identifying number.

Do not carry your identification cards and your checks in the same wallet. Keep them separate: identification in your bill fold in one pocket and checkbook in another pocket. If either are lost or stolen, the finder will not have access to your checking account. Do not carry your social security card in your purse or wallet. Make a list of your credit cards, identification cards and checking account numbers, and keep the list in a safe place. If your purse or wallet is lost or stolen, you will then have a list of numbers to use when notifying the proper authorities. Remember, you will need to contact not only the police but also all credit card companies and banks with which you do business. Make these notifications immediately.

Insurance in housing units operated by Student Housing covers the institution’s property only. Residents are encouraged to provide their own insurance against loss of or damage to personal possessions. If your family has homeowner’s insurance, check with your family’s agent about coverage.

Protecting Your Motor Vehicle

Lock your motor vehicle and take the keys. Many car burglaries and car thefts occur because the owner did not take the time to secure the car. Do not make your car a target of opportunity by leaving it open to all who care to enter. Do not park in isolated, dark places if these areas can be avoided. Park where there are people and where the car will be well-lit.

Do not leave items of value unattended in your car. Expensive cameras, stereo equipment, textbooks and clothing left on the seat of an unattended car are invitations to theft. If you must leave items in your car, store them in a locked trunk.

Specific parking areas are dedicated to residents at student residence halls. Familiarize yourself with parking rules for these areas and obey them. Campus Safety & Security will issue citations, boot vehicles and/or tow vehicles when appropriate.

Protecting Your Bicycle

Never leave your bicycle unlocked and unattended. Bicycles are to be secured to designated bicycle racks only. Register your bicycle for a campus parking permit. Include your bike’s serial number (located on the bottom bracket) when you register.

The following is a partial list of services offered by the Campus Safety & Security Department:

• Eagle Guardian: Download the RAVE Guardian app for your smartphone and use it to communicate with Campus Safety & Security 24 hours a day.
• Safe Walk: Campus Safety “Safe Walk” escorts are available on campus to everyone. A Safety & Security Department staff member will walk with you from any location on campus to any other location on campus, day or night, rain or shine.
• Building Access: Access will be given to facilities for those individuals who are properly authorized. If a resident of a University-managed housing facility is locked out of their room, they should first seek assistance from a member of the Housing staff. If they are not available, Campus Safety & Security personnel will be happy to assist you. You will be granted access to your building or room upon proof of your identity and access privilege.
• Extended Parking: If you need to leave your registered vehicle on campus overnight or for extended periods of time, call Campus Safety & Security and we will suggest the best place to leave it. The University cannot assume liability for loss or damage.
• Special Events: We will provide and/or coordinate Safety & Security services for special events on University property.
• Lost and Found: Lost and Found is located in Campus Safety & Security in Building 14. Property is held for 30 days and then processed for disposal.
• Anonymous Reporting: Persons are encouraged to report all crimes to the Campus Safety & Security Department. Persons can use the privacy feature in Eagle Guardian chat to report anonymously.
• Handicap/Injured Person Transport: Campus Safety & Security will try to accommodate any person that is mobility-impaired if staffing is available. Requests must come from the Wellness Center.

If you notice a condition that you consider a hazardous circumstance in your apartment, dorm or campus area, please notify the Department of Housing & Residence Life staff or your Resident Assistant (RA). You may also report a hazardous situation to Campus Safety & Security.

Due to of concerns for personal safety and the protection of property, University facilities are locked after business hours according to established schedules set by Campus Safety and the University department which controls the location. Any entry into a secured area after hours requires written approval from the controlling department head and notification to Campus Safety & Security. Students, faculty and staff shall carry their University identification with them at all times and present it on request of any University official.

University housing facilities are restricted to residents and invited guests (when permitted). RAs check for propped open doors and remind residents of the importance to keep doors locked to help prevent crime. Residents are strongly encouraged to keep their individual doors and windows locked at all times. If a resident of a University-managed housing facility is locked out of their building or their room, they should first seek assistance from a member of the Housing staff by calling 928-777-3790.

The University is committed to providing a safe and secure environment throughout its facilities. The campus is patrolled by Safety Officers on a regular basis, and they pay close attention to maintaining the physical security of the University. Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to report lock problems, lighting problems, safety or security concerns, unauthorized persons or suspicious conditions to Campus Safety & Security promptly.

The Campus Safety & Security Department is not a sworn public law enforcement agency. There is no specific Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between ERAU and Prescott PD. Campus Safety & Security works closely with the Prescott Police Department and will notify them when crime is committed on campus.

Campus Safety & Security Officers are responsible for maintaining a safe and secure environment throughout the University. They enforce University rules and regulations, patrol campus grounds, respond to emergencies, provide routine and specialized security service, investigate incidents and facilitate the response of community emergency services as required. While Safety Officers and Security Officers are not sworn law enforcement officers with arrest powers, they do receive training in various aspects of campus Safety & Security, with special training in campus and police relations. Armed Security Officers have been trained in the use of a sidearm, which they wear while in uniform on duty.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University encourages all members of the University community to report crimes or suspicious conditions as soon as possible. The prompt and accurate reporting of such conditions will help Campus Safety & Security to investigate the incident and initiate appropriate actions, including notification and coordination with the police department and other community agencies as appropriate.

Safety Officers assist in facilitating police service for individuals on campus as appropriate. The University encourages all victims of crime to report the incident to Campus Safety & Security and the Police Department as soon as possible. A Safety Officer will be happy to assist you complete this process. To report a crime on campus, call 777-3333 to speak with a Dispatcher. To report a crime to the Prescott Police Department, please call 911.

The Campus Safety & Security Department uses an ARMS Automated Record Management System as its Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) and case management system. Campus Safety & Security also maintains a daily crime log for Clery compliance purposes. This log can be viewed upon request in the Safety & Security office. The log lists all crimes that have been reported over the prior 60 days and includes crime type, date reported, date of incident, location and disposition if available. The crime will be listed on log within two days of being reported. Once a crime is listed on the daily crime log, a disposition can only be changed to “Unfounded” by Prescott Police Department. If Campus Safety & Security investigates the case and believes the case is a false report or unfounded, Campus Safety & Security will contact the Prescott Police Department to review disposition. If the case is judged unfounded by the Prescott Police Department, it will be documented on the original case report.

Campus Safety & Security encourages anyone who is a victim of a crime or a witness to a crime to report the incident. As our incident reports may be subject to discovery by subpoena, Campus Safety & Security cannot guarantee absolute privacy. Anonymous reports may be made through our anonymous reporting process. If you wish make a report anonymously, you may use the privacy feature in Eagle Guardian chat to report anonymously.

Eagle Guardian Mobile Safety App

The Eagle Guardian app, when downloaded onto phones or smart devices, will enable you to text a tip, report an incident anonymously to Campus Safety & Security or take advantage of other safety features while using the app. The Eagle Guardian App by Rave Mobile Safety can be downloaded in the Apple or Google Play stores by searching for “Rave Guardian.” You can also learn more at www.raveguardian.com.

The University does not require counselors to report crimes to the Campus Safety & Security. We do encourage our counseling professionals to inform their clients of the procedure to report a crime to Campus Safety & Security or the Prescott Police Department. In the event a Counselor becomes aware of a Clery reportable offense, they will share the fact for statistical purposes without violating their client’s confidentiality.

This University takes hate crimes very seriously and encourages the campus community to report any incident that may fall into this category. Reportable hate crimes apply to all Clery reportable crimes under the Clery Act. The Higher Education Opportunity Act specifies four additional crimes that should be reported under the Clery Act if they are committed as part of a hate crime. These crimes are Larceny-Theft, Simple Assault, Intimidation and Vandalism.

The U.S. Department of Education defines a Campus Security Authority (CSA) as a University official with significant responsibility for students and campus activities.

Who is a CSA?

• Someone who works as part of Campus Safety & Security Department.
• Someone who has responsibility for campus security but does not constitute police or security, such as special event staff or parking enforcement personnel.
• Any individual or organization specified via Embry-Riddle’s security policy as someone to whom students and employees may report criminal offenses.
• Any University official with "significant responsibility for student campus activities." These activities include student housing, student discipline and campus judicial proceedings. Examples include:
• Dean of Students
• Associate Dean of Students
• Director of Housing & Residence Life
• Housing & Residence Life staff, including Resident Assistants (RAs)
• Director of Student Engagement
• Officials who oversee student extracurricular activities
• Faculty/staff advisors to student groups/organizations
• Coordinator of Fraternity and Sorority Life
• Director of Athletics
• Team coaches

Who is not a CSA?

• A faculty member who does not advise a student group.
• Support staff (including clerical, maintenance and food service workers).
• Campus health physicians or nurses whose only responsibility is to provide care to students.

Who is exempt from being a CSA?

These people are only exempt when acting in the role and within the scope of a professional license or religious assignment (i.e., if a faculty advisor is also a licensed counselor, he/she would still need to report if actively advising and not counseling).

• Pastoral counselor recognized by a religious organization to provide confidential counseling.
• Professional licensed mental health counselor.

Clery crimes are defined by the FBI Uniform Crime Report:

• Murder
• Manslaughter
• Sexual Assault (forcible and non-forcible sex offenses)
• Robbery
• Aggravated Assault
• Burglary (Forced entry or trespass into structure)
• Motor Vehicle Theft
• Arson
• Hate Crimes
• Illegal weapons violation under Arizona State Law
• Drug violation under Arizona State Law
• Liquor violation under Arizona State Law

Information needed when reporting:

• Date
• Time
• Location
• Gender and age of survivor & accused (if known)
• Brief description to ensure no duplications

The U.S. Department of Education and the University require Campus Security Authorities (CSAs) to support compliance with the Clery Act by performing the following duties:

• CSAs are required to report all Clery offenses to the Campus Safety & Security Department within two business days or as soon as the Campus Security Authority identifies the act to be a Clery offense.
• CSAs are only required to report Clery offenses that occur on University property.
• CSAs receiving information must believe information is being given in "good faith." Good faith means there is a reasonable basis for believing the information is not simply rumors or hearsay. That is, there is little or no reason to doubt the validity of the information.
• CSAs are required to keep information they receive confidential. The only exception is the requirement to report the offense to the Campus Safety & Security Department. If the party reporting the offense request anonymity, the Clery Act allows a Campus Security Authority to honor that request.
• CSAs are not required to conduct an investigation. Just collect facts (i.e., type of crime, time and date of occurrence, where the incident occurred, names of individuals involved and possible witnesses.) The Campus Safety & Security Department will be responsible to investigate and document the incident.
• CSAs should not wait to report a crime if physical evidence exists. This type of incident must be reported immediately to the Campus Safety & Security Department.
• CSAs are not required to report a crime to local law enforcement, however, Campus Security Authorities are required to assist a victim and or provide support for a victim that wishes to report a crime to local law enforcement. The Campus Safety & Security Department or Campus Counseling Services should be utilized to help facilitate the reporting of a crime to local law enforcement.
• CSAs receiving a victim’s report should be supportive, responsive and provide as much assistance as possible. You are encouraged to direct the victims of crime to the Campus Safety & Security Department and other university services, such as the Wellness Center, which includes counseling services.

If you have any questions regarding the obligations of a Campus Security Authority (CSA), please speak with the Director of Campus Safety & Security at 928-777-3738.

Campus Safety & Security encourages all students and all other members of the campus community to report off campus crimes to the Prescott Police Department or their appropriate jurisdiction. We also encourage victims of crimes on campus to report crimes to their local law enforcement agency.

The purpose of a timely warning is to notify the campus community when a threat may exist on University property and it is considered an ongoing hazard. Campus Safety & Security — in consultation with campus leadership, University General Counsel, the Dean of Students office and local law enforcement agencies — will determine if the situation at hand is a reportable Clery crime and requires a timely warning. Campus Safety & Security will then be responsible for notification. Notification may take the form of RAVE announcements, campus-wide email, fliers, posters or group meetings. Anyone with information that may warrant community notification and a timely warning is encouraged to call Campus Safety & Security at 928-777-3333.

Campus Safety & Security is responsible for all campus-wide emergency notifications. The RAVE system may be activated by any Dispatcher, Safety Officer, Security Officer or Safety & Security management representative by logging in to the RAVE application. If necessary, RAVE messages may also be initiated by the Dispatch office at our sister campus in Daytona Beach. A RAVE announcement may also be made by calling the application provider’s service desk. This allows the campus to, without delay and taking into account the safety of the community, determine the content of the notification and initiate the notification system. The RAVE emergency mass notification system can send email, voice and text messages to smartphones, Eagle Guardian subscribers, Alertus messages to campus computers and public address loud speakers. Emergency notifications go to all students, faculty and staff, on and off campus, who have set up their notifications for this service. Additional notifications may include public address messages made from patrol vehicle loudspeakers. Notifications will be made promptly, and will describe the emergency and recommend action to take.

Messages for severe weather and active shooter are pre-formatted. Other emergencies require that the specific message be crafted by the dispatcher, safety or security officer, or safety management personnel making the announcement. Depending on the nature of the emergency, the external public address system may or may not be used. There will be a full test of the RAVE emergency notification — email, text, voicemail, Eagle Guardian, public address and RAVE — at the beginning of each semester. An email describing the purpose of the drill and the means by which members of the campus community may opt-in to additional notification methods is sent to the entire campus prior to the drill. The RAVE system is tested silently every two weeks by each member of the Safety & Security Department. During this test, each staff member logs in to RAVE and sends a test message to selected management representatives.

Emergency responses are coordinated by Safety & Security personnel, as well as the Emergency Operations Team (EOT). The EOT is composed of campus leadership personnel who meet for table top exercises four times a year. EOT exercises include topics such as active shooter, wildfire, building fire, contagious illness, missing persons, etc.

If you are well-informed, it will be easier to remain calm during an emergency. Emergency procedures are published on the Prescott Campus Safety & Security Department webpage, in brochures and are communicated in UNIV 101, CIPS and ERLI new student briefings. The following outline consists of emergency conditions that can occur on campus. Every type of emergency condition cannot be covered, but the following can be used on any similar emergency or hazardous event. Please familiarize yourself to be prepared in the event of an emergency. It is Campus Safety & Security’s responsibility to make notifications, respond, assist victims, mitigate and contain the emergency.

• Fire Alarm: When you hear a fire alarm, immediately leave the building in an orderly fashion. It is imperative that you cooperate with all staff members and other authorities. Permission will be given to reenter the building when it is safe to do so.
• Medical Emergencies: For any situation requiring emergency medical assistance on campus, call 911 and then ERAU Campus Safety & Security at 928-777-3333 (x3333 from an internal phone). Both numbers will result in an ambulance response if the emergency warrants.
• Hostile Person on Campus: How you respond to a hostile intruder or an active shooter will be dictated by the specific circumstances of the encounter. You are encouraged to view the “Shots Fired on Campus” and “Run, Hide, Fight” videos available on the ERNIE Campus Safety webpage under "Campus Safety Videos." These training materials provide tools with which to survive an incident.
• Other Emergencies: The campus posts Emergency Response Guides in offices and classrooms throughout the campus. The University also has a Campus Emergency Management Plan (CEMP) available online internally. This plan outlines a variety of emergency response procedures.

The University has established policies regarding the possession, use and abuse of alcohol on the campus. The following information is drawn from the Student Handbook.

Alcohol

• The possession or consumption of alcohol by anyone under the age of 21. Being under the influence of alcohol may be viewed as possession.
• Having knowledge of, or being in the presence when an alcohol violation occurs, may constitute equal responsibility and involvement in the incident.
• Purchasing for or providing alcohol to anyone under the age of 21.
• The possession of alcohol on University owned or operated property (excluding exempted locations, such as residence hall rooms with approved alcohol permit or preapproved events) is prohibited.
• Showing physical or mental impairment following or resulting from alcohol use.
• The possession of or use of powdered/vapor alcohol or “vaportinis” or similar devices on University-owned or -operated property is prohibited.

University-Managed Housing Policies

• Only individuals who are 21 years of age or older are permitted to possess and/or consume alcoholic beverages and must follow these guidelines:
• Alcohol is only permitted in the residence halls designated where upper division and transfer students reside. All students who wish to consume/possess alcoholic beverages must obtain an alcohol permit from the Department of Housing & Residence Life (HRL) and post in plain view within their assigned living area.
• Alcohol is not permitted in the common areas and/or around the residence halls.
• Alcohol may not be consumed in the presence of any individual under the age of 21 who does not live in the suite/apartment.
• Beer, wine, wine coolers and malt beverages are the only types of alcohol permitted in the halls. The maximum amount of alcohol allowed by a permit holding student at any given time is 12, 12-ounce bottles of beer/wine cooler/malt beverages and/or two bottles of wine. Hard liquor and alcohol/energy combination drinks of any kind are prohibited.

View the Student Handbook.

It is the policy of the University to maintain a work and educational environment that is safe for our employees and students and conducive to high work standards. The University complies with the Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, the Drug Free Schools & Communities Act Amendments of 1989, all University drug policies, and all other pertinent federal, state and local regulations regarding drug and alcohol possession, use and abuse. The following policy statements are drawn from the Student Handbook.

Drugs

A student who uses marijuana in another state legally and then tests positive through means of a University or other drug test, legal or otherwise, brought to the attention of the University may find themselves referred to the conduct process. It is possible for a student to be held Responsible or sanctioned through one University process (i.e. Athletics or ROTC) but not found Responsible through the conduct process.

• Selling and/or distributing any kind of medication or drug, including but not limited to prescription medications, illegal or prohibited drugs, synthetic drugs, controlled substances or anything that may alter ones cognitive and/or physical functionality.
• Possessing* and/or using prescription medication without a valid prescription, including but not limited to using someone else’s prescription.
• Possessing* or using legally prescribed medical marijuana, marijuana wax, marijuana oil, consumable forms of marijuana or alternative marijuana products, even with a medical marijuana card**.
• Misusing prescribed medication, over-the-counter medication, herbal supplements or substance that may alter ones cognitive and/or physical functionality.
• Drug paraphernalia or other paraphernalia includes but is not limited to bongs, pipes (purchased or otherwise), or any items modified or adapted to be used to consume drugs is prohibited.

* Possession refers to: Being under the influence of a drug; holding or transporting drugs on University-owned or -operated property, including University vehicles or rented vehicles; possessing seeds of plants that produce drugs; substances when combined produce drugs (i.e. manufacturing mushrooms); the odor or scent of a drug (i.e. marijuana); residue in paraphernalia.

** Embry-Riddle does not permit the use or possession of medical marijuana or paraphernalia on campus (see the Medical Marijuana Policy below).

Medical Marijuana Policy

In 2010, Arizona voters approved the Arizona Medical Marijuana Act (Proposition 203), which, under certain circumstances, authorizes the possession and use of marijuana for medical purposes by people with debilitating medical conditions who obtain a written certification from a physician. Notwithstanding the passage of Proposition 203, because of the University’s obligations under Federal law, marijuana, including medical marijuana, will continue to be banned on campus. Additionally, campus health care providers, in accordance with Federal law as well as University policies and regulations, will not prescribe medical marijuana. 52 Under Federal legislation entitled The Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, and The Drug Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989, “no institution of higher education shall be eligible to receive funds or any other form of financial assistance under any Federal program, including participation in any Federally funded or guaranteed student loan program, unless it has adopted and has implemented a program to prevent the use of illicit drugs and abuse of alcohol by students and employees.” Federal law entitled The Controlled Substances Act prohibits the use, manufacture, distribution, dispensing, or possession of marijuana; it also classifies marijuana as a controlled substance and makes no exception for medical use. Proposition 203 does not change the fact that marijuana remains illegal under Federal law; the University will therefore continue to enforce its current policies prohibiting the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession or use of a controlled substance, including medical marijuana, on its property or as part of any of its activities.

Despite popular misconception, Proposition 203 only made possession and use of medical marijuana legal under Arizona law. It did not generally legalize marijuana possession and use. Marijuana remains a controlled substance under Federal law and possession and use of marijuana remains illegal under Federal law, regardless of whether a person has a prescription or is otherwise complying with Proposition 203. In order to remain eligible to receive Federal grant funding and participate in federally funded student financial aid, the University must require that students, faculty and staff do not unlawfully possess or use marijuana on campus or as part of any of its activities. As a result, the possession or use of marijuana on campus, even in accordance with the exceptions granted by Proposition 203, is a violation of Federal law and the University's current policies and regulations. Employees and students who violate these policies will continue to be subject to disciplinary action.

The entire Student Handbook is available online here.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University will provide education for students, faculty and staff through program development and literature distribution. Enforcement of state and federal drug laws may be referred to police agencies having jurisdiction.

The University promotes substance abuse awareness by sponsoring educational programs and distributing literature on the subject. The University is additionally committed to assisting students in the resolution of problems associated with substance abuse. We encourage students to seek additional help through referrals from University Wellness Center at 928-777-6653 or Counseling Center at 928-777-3312. Programming and literature is also provided by the Department of Housing & Residence Life at 928-777-3744. Information on substance abuse is also covered in the Student’s Rights and Responsibility section of the Student Handbook.

Federal regulations require Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University to provide a policy about missing students who reside in on-campus housing.

If a member of the University community believes a residential student is missing, they should immediately inform the Campus Safety & Security Department at 928-777-3333.

Students residing in Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University on-campus housing may designate a Missing Person Contact person, someone the student would like informed in the event the student is missing. Missing Person Contact information will be registered confidentially and will be accessible only to the Campus Safety & Security Department or the Dean of Students Office for the purpose of conducting a missing person investigation. Students may change or update their Missing Person Contact information at any time using the online Housing Application tool.

When notified of a missing student report, the Campus Safety & Security Department will:

• Investigate to determine the validity of the report.
• Attempt to determine the location and status of the missing student.
• Within 24 hours of receiving the referral, report to the Dean of Students Office the results of its investigation.
• Regardless of whether or not the student has identified a Missing Person Contact, if the student is 18 or older or a legally emancipated minor, Campus Safety & Security Department shall inform the Prescott Police Department of the missing student within 24 hours.
• Aid in any subsequent investigation conducted by the Prescott Police Department.

When a student residing in on-campus housing is reported missing by any source, the Dean of Students Office will:

• Refer the missing student report to Campus Safety & Security Department.
• Notify the Chancellor.
• If the student has designated a Missing Person Contact, the Dean of Students Office will notify the Missing Person Contact within 24 hours of a Campus Safety & Security Department at missing determination.
• If the student is under 18 years of age and not legally emancipated, the Dean of Students Office will notify the student's custodial parent or guardian and any designated Missing Person Contact within 24 hours of a Campus Safety & Security Department missing determination.
• Inform University officials that may have knowledge of the student's background or situation.
• Inform the student's major college Dean.
• Notify the student's instructors of their absence.
• Initiate whatever other action is deemed appropriate under the circumstances to be in the best interest of the missing student.

The Office on Violence Against Women (OVW), a component of the U.S. Department of Justice, implements the provisions of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and provides national leadership on the issues of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence and stalking.

Sexual violence and sexual assault is unacceptable and will not be tolerated at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. It is a criminal act under Arizona State Law and will be treated as such. The University urges an individual who has been sexually assaulted to file an official report. We encourage any member of the campus community that has information about a sexual assault to report the incident to Campus Safety & Security or the Title IX Office. Campus Safety & Security and the Title IX Office will also encourage anyone reporting a crime to report it the Prescott Police Department or other appropriate law enforcement agency.

Information on the prevention and response to a sexual assault on campus can be found in the Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy and the University Sexual Misconduct Policy. Both policies can be found on the Prescott Campus' Title IX website.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Prescott Campus prohibits acts termed “Sexual Misconduct” and "Sexual Harassment," which can be crimes as well. Sexual misconduct and sexual harassment includes but is not limited to improper conduct related to sex, sexual exploitation, rape, sodomy, sexual assault, fondling, incest, statutory rape, dating or domestic violence, stalking, quid pro quo sexual harassment and sexual harassment. While Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Prescott Campus utilizes different standards and definitions than the Arizona Revised Statutes, sexual misconduct and sexual harassment often overlaps with the crimes of rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment, stalking, dating violence and domestic violence. Victims of these behaviors are protected by federal laws, specifically VAWA.

VAWA Definitions

Effective October 1, 2022, relevant definitions are listed below:

Dating partner: The term "dating partner" refers to a person who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the abuser, and where the existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on a consideration of:

• The length of the relationship.
• The type of relationship.
• The frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship.

Dating violence: The term "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.
• Where the existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on a consideration of the following factors:
• The length of the relationship.
• The type of relationship.
• The frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship.

Domestic violence: The term "domestic violence" includes felony or misdemeanor crimes committed by a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the victim under the family or domestic violence laws of the jurisdiction receiving grant funding and, in the case of victim services, includes the use or attempted use of physical abuse or sexual abuse, or a pattern of any other coercive behavior committed, enabled or solicited to gain or maintain power and control over a victim, including verbal, psychological, economic or technological abuse that may or may not constitute criminal behavior, by a person who:

• Is a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the victim, or person similarly situated to a spouse of the victim.
• Is cohabitating, or has cohabitated, with the victim as a spouse or intimate partner.
• Shares a child in common with the victim.
• Commits acts against a youth or adult victim who is protected from those acts under the family or domestic violence laws of the jurisdiction.

Economic Abuse: In the context of domestic violence (and) dating violence, refers to the behavior that is coercive, deceptive or unreasonably controls or restrains a person’s ability to acquire, use or maintain economic resources to which they are entitled, including using coercion, fraud or manipulation to:

• Restrict a person’s access to money, assets, credit or financial information.
• Unfairly use a person’s personal economic resources, including money, assets and credit, for one’s own advantage.
• Exert undue influence over a person’s financial and economic behavior or decisions, including forcing default on joint or other financial obligations, exploiting powers of attorney, guardianship or conservatorship, or failing or neglecting to act in the best interests of a person to whom one has a fiduciary duty.

Technological Abuse: An act or pattern of behavior that occurs within domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence or stalking and is intended to harm, threaten, intimidate, control, stalk, harass, impersonate, exploit, extort or monitor, except as otherwise permitted by law, another person, that occurs using any form of technology, including but not limited to: internet enabled devices, online spaces and platforms, computers, mobile devices, cameras and imaging programs, apps, location tracking devices, communication technologies or any other emerging technologies.

Abuse in Later Life: Refers to neglect, abandonment, economic abuse or willful harm of an adult aged 50 or older by an individual in an ongoing relationship of trust with the victim; or domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault or stalking of an adult aged 50 or older by any individual; and does not include self-neglect.

Reporting

It is the policy of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Prescott Campus to notify Campus Safety & Security when sexual misconduct occurs, typically without providing identifying information about the incident, unless a victim wishes that information to be shared or an emergency requires disclosure. Victims have the option to notify law enforcement directly or be assisted by campus security authorities. If requested, campus officials can facilitate reporting to campus or local law enforcement but may also respect a victim’s request not to do so.

In an effort to reduce the risk of sexual misconduct as well as the crimes of rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment, stalking, dating violence and domestic violence occurring among its students, the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Prescott Campus utilizes a range of campaigns, strategies and initiatives to promote awareness, educational, risk reduction and prevention programming.

It is the policy of the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Prescott Campus to offer programming to identify and prevent domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault (including stranger and known offender assaults) and stalking each year. Educational programs to raise awareness for all incoming students and employees are conducted during new student and new employee orientation, and throughout an incoming student’s first semester. Programs and educational information are offered to all students and employees that include but are not limited to messages to increase awareness but also primary prevention, including normative messaging, environmental management and bystander intervention, institutional policies on sexual misconduct, and State of Arizona definitions of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking and consent in reference to sexual activity.

Programs also offer information on risk reduction that strives to empower victims, how to recognize warning signals and how to avoid potential attacks, and how to do so without victim blaming approaches. Programs are informed by evidence-based research and/or are assessed for their effectiveness.

Bystander engagement is encouraged through safe and positive intervention techniques and by empowering third-party intervention and prevention, such as calling for help, using intervention-based apps, identifying allies and/or creating distractions. Bystander empowerment training highlights the need for those who intervene to ensure their own safety in the intervention techniques they choose and motivates them to intervene as stakeholders in the safety of the community when others might choose to be bystanders.

In the event that sexual misconduct, gender-based violence or the crimes of sexual assault, stalking, dating violence or domestic violence do occur, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University takes the matter very seriously. The Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Prescott Campus employs interim protection/supportive measures, such as interim suspensions and/or no contact orders, in any case where a student’s behavior represents a risk of violence, threat, pattern or predation. If a student is accused of sexual misconduct, other gender-based violence or the crimes of rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment, stalking, dating violence or domestic violence, the University may implement the Title IX Sexual Harassment or the University Sexual Misconduct grievance process.

A student wishing to officially report such an incident may do so by contacting Campus Safety & Security at 928-777-3333 or the Title Office at 386-241-6012. Anyone with knowledge about sexual misconduct, gender-based violence or the crimes of rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment, stalking, dating violence or domestic violence is encouraged to report it immediately. Supportive measures are available from the campus whether or not a victim chooses to report to local and/or campus law enforcement, and irrespective of whether a victim pursues a formal complaint through the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Prescott Campus resolution process.

If you are the victim of sexual misconduct, gender-based violence or the crimes of rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment, stalking, dating violence or domestic violence, some or all of these safety suggestions may guide you after an incident has occurred:

• Go to a safe place and speak with someone you trust. Tell this person what happened. If there is any immediate danger, contact Campus Safety & Security at 928-777-3333 if you are on campus or call 911 if you are off campus.
• Consider securing immediate professional support (e.g., counseling, victim advocacy, medical services, etc.) to assist you in the crisis.
• If you are on campus during regular business hours, you may go to the ERAU Counseling Center for counseling services, support and guidance. The ERAU Counseling Center can provide confidential resources.
• After regular business hours, or in any situation where a victim wishes, local resources, such as Suicide Prevention Lifeline 800-273-8255 (TALK) and National Sexual Assault Hotline 800-656-4673, are also available and may be able to provide confidential assistance.
• For your safety and well-being, immediate medical attention is encouraged. Further, being examined as soon as possible is important in the case of rape or sexual assault. The hospital will arrange for a specific medical examination at no charge or can work with you to arrange state reimbursement.
• To preserve evidence, it is recommended that you do not bathe, shower, douche, eat, drink, smoke, brush your teeth, urinate, defecate or change clothes before receiving medical attention. Even if you have already taken any of these actions, you are still encouraged to have prompt medical care, and evidence may still be recoverable.
• Typically, if police are involved or will be involved, they will obtain evidence from the scene, and it is best to leave things undisturbed until their arrival. They will gather bedding, linens or unlaundered clothing, and any other pertinent articles that may be used for evidence. It is best to allow police to secure items in evidence containers, but if you are involved in transmission of items of evidence, such as to the hospital, secure them in a clean paper bag or clean sheet to avoid contamination.
• If you have physical injuries, photograph or have them photographed, with a date stamp on the photo.
• Record the names of any witnesses and their contact information. This information may be helpful as proof of a crime, to obtain an order of protection or to offer proof of a campus policy violation.
• Try to memorize details (e.g., physical description, names, license plate number, car description, etc.), or even better, write notes to remind you of details, if you have time and the ability to do so.
• If you obtain external orders of protection (e.g., Orders of Protection or an Injunction against Harassment), please notify and provide a copy to Campus Safety & Security or the campus Title IX Office so that those orders can be observed on campus.
• Even after the immediate crisis has passed, consider seeking support from ERAU Counseling Services.
• Contact Campus Safety & Security at 928-777-3333 if you need assistance with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Prescott campus concerns, such as no-contact orders or other protective measures. The Title IX Office can also assist in any needed advice for students who wish to obtain supportive measures from the University.
• The Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Prescott Campus is able to offer reasonable academic support, changes to living arrangements, security escorts, no contact orders, counseling services access, and other support and resources as needed. The Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Prescott Campus is able to offer information about visa/immigration assistance and student financial aid considerations for involved parties.

Legal Definitions

Rape is generally defined by states as forced sexual intercourse. It may also include situations where the victim is incapable of giving consent due to incapacitation by means of disability or alcohol or other drugs. Many rapes are committed by someone the victim knows, such as a date or friend.

Under Arizona law, rape is defined as sexual intercourse against the will of the victim that can occur under a variety of circumstances, including:

• Where the victim is prevented from resisting due to alcohol or drugs.
• Where the assailant uses physical force or the threat of force to overpower and control the victim.
• Where the victim fears that s/he or another will be injured if the victim does not submit.
• Where the victim is at the time unconscious of the nature of the act, and this is known to the assailant.
• Where the victim is incapable of giving legal consent due to a mental disorder or developmental or physical disability, and this is known or reasonably should be known to the assailant.
• Where the act is accomplished by threatening to use the authority of a public official to incarcerate, arrest or deport the victim or another person.
• Where the assailant uses duress, such as a direct or implied threat of hardship or retribution, to coerce the victim.
• Where the assailant uses force, fear or threats to accomplish sexual intercourse against the will of the spouse. This provision of the law is known as the “spousal rape law.”

The complete Arizona rape and sexual assault offense definitions can be found in accordance to the Arizona Revised Statutes under Title 13 Criminal Code § 13-1406.

Other Sexual Offenses

Other sexual offenses associated with the crime of rape (sexual battery) include the following: sodomy (forced anal intercourse); oral copulation (forced oral-genital contact); rape by a foreign object (forced penetration by a foreign object, including a finger); and sexual battery (the unwanted touching of an intimate part of another person for the purpose of sexual arousal).

Any violation of the Title IX Sexual Harassment or the University Sexual Misconduct policy will be handled in accordance with either the Title IX Sexual Harassment or University Sexual Misconduct process. Please see the Title IX Federal Regulation section of this report for further details on the University’s procedures. For further information regarding Embry-Riddle’s Prescott campus Title IX Sexual Harassment and University Sexual Misconduct policies, go to our Title IX website.

Sex Offenders

In accordance to the Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act of 2000, which amends the Jacob Wetterling Crimes Against Children and Sexually Violent Offender Registration Act, the Jeanne Clery Act and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Prescott Campus is providing a link to the Arizona Sex Offender Search. All sex offenders are required to register in the state of Arizona and to provide notice of each institution of higher education in Arizona at which the person is employed, carries out a vocation or is a student.

In addition to the above notice to the State of Arizona, all sex offenders are required to deliver written notice of their status as a sex offender to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Prescott Campus no later than three business days prior to their enrollment in, employment with, volunteering at or residence in the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Prescott Campus. Such notification may be disseminated by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Prescott Campus to, and for the safety and well-being of, the Embry-Riddle community and may be considered by the Embry-Riddle for enrollment and discipline purposes.

Campus Procedures for Addressing Complaints

Procedurally, when Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Prescott Campus receives a report of sexual misconduct, gender-based violence or other sex or gender discrimination, the campus Title IX Coordinator is notified. Please see the Title IX Federal Regulations section of this report for further details on the campus procedures.

The investigation and records of the resolution conducted by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) Prescott Campus are maintained confidentially. Information is shared internally between administrators who need to know, but a tight circle is kept. In accordance with federal regulations, the University will keep confidential the identity of any individual who has made a report or formal complaint under the Title IX or Sexual Misconduct policies, including any complainant, any individual who has been reported to be the perpetrator, any respondent and any witness, except as may be permitted by Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), or as required by law, or to carry out the purposes of conducting any investigation or hearing under the policies. Privacy of the records specific to the investigation is maintained in accordance with Arizona law and the federal FERPA statute. Any public release of information needed to comply with the open crime logs or timely warning provisions of the Clery Act will not include the names of victim or information that could easily lead to a victim’s identification. Additionally, Embry-Riddle Prescott Campus maintains privacy in relation to any accommodations or protective measures afforded to either party, except to the extent necessary to provide the accommodations and/or protective measures. Typically, if faculty members or administrators are asked to provide accommodations for a specific student, they are told that such accommodations are necessary under Title IX or the Clery Act, but they are not given any details of the incident or what kind of incident it is.

Both the Clery Act and Title IX provide protections for whistleblowers who bring allegations of non-compliance to the attention of appropriate campus administrators. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Prescott Campus does not retaliate against those who raise concerns of non-compliance. Any concerns should be brought to the immediate attention of Campus Safety & Security at 928-777-3333 or the Title IX Office at 386-241-6012.

Reporting of statistics under the Clery Act uses federal offenses definitions that allow comparability across campuses, regardless of the state in which the campus is located. These definitions are as follows:

Sex Offenses

Any sexual act directed against another person, without the consent of the victim, including instances where the victim is incapable of giving consent.

• Rape: Vaginal or anal penetration by a penis, object, tongue or finger, and oral copulation (mouth to genital contact), no matter how slight the penetration or contact, without consent.
• 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.

Dating Violence

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

• The existence of such a relationship shall be determined 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.
• 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.
• For the purposes of complying with the requirements of this section and § 668.4, any incident meeting this definition is considered a crime for the purposes of Clery Act reporting.

Domestic Violence

A felony or misdemeanor crime of violence committed:

• By a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the victim.
• By a person with whom the victim shares a child in common.
• By a person who is cohabitating with, or has cohabitated with, the victim as a spouse or intimate partner.
• 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.
• By any other person against an adult or youth victim who is protected.

Stalking

Engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to: 

• Fear for the person’s safety or the safety of others.
• Suffer substantial emotional distress.
• For the purposes of this definition, "course of conduct" means two or more acts, including but not limited to acts in 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.

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX) is a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs and activities. Embry-Riddle’s Aeronautical University’s Title IX Office oversees compliance of Title IX Sexual Harassment in accordance with Federal Regulations, as well as incidents falling under the University Sexual Misconduct policy. Policy violations can include sex discrimination, sexual harassment or sexual violence, such as rape, sexual assault, relationship / dating violence, sexual misconduct and stalking. Anyone may report suspected or known violations to the Title IX Office and may be able to receive supportive measures. Please see below, or the Title IX website, for additional information.

Reporting Options

Anyone may report violations to the University through the Title IX Office or Campus Safety & Security. Parties also may file a report with law enforcement. Complainants (e.g., victims) are not required to file a report with Law Enforcement but are encouraged to do so and will be assisted by Campus Safety & Security in notifying law enforcement if the complainant chooses. Regardless of whether a complainant opts to report the crime, accommodations or protective measures may be provided if requested. In addition to, or in lieu of, filing a criminal complaint, anyone may report prohibited behaviors under the University’s Title IX Sexual Harassment or University Sexual Misconduct policies to the University’s Title IX Office and/or Campus Safety & Security. Embry-Riddle will take steps to keep information private to the extent allowed by law. If you would like to report a concern to the University, you may fill out this form or visit the University’s Title IX website for additional reporting options.

The Process

The University is committed to providing a prompt and impartial investigation, and adjudication of all formal complaints alleging violations of the Title IX Sexual Harassment policy. Once the University receives a complaint, the Title IX Office and/or representative will contact the complainant to review supportive/protective measures, such as No Contact Orders or changes in academic/working situations, and to review the formal grievance process, informal resolution process, documentation and advisor options.

During the grievance process, both parties (complainants and respondents) have equal rights to participate, receive supportive measures and have an advisor of their choice.

If the complainant files a formal complaint and wishes to pursue a formal grievance process (e.g., investigation), and if the Title IX Coordinator has determined, following an initial assessment, that an investigation is appropriate, the Title IX Coordinator will appoint a Title IX Investigator. Investigations will be conducted by officials who have received training on the definition of Title IX Sexual Harassment; the scope of the University’s education program or activity; how to conduct an investigation and grievance process, including hearings, appeals and informal resolution processes under this policy, as applicable; and how to serve impartially, including avoiding prejudgment of the facts at issue, conflicts of interest and bias.

The Title IX Investigator will complete a thorough investigation within 90-120 business days after the investigator’s first interview with the complainant. There may be circumstances that require the extension of time frames for good cause. Time frames may be extended to ensure the integrity and completeness of the investigation or adjudication, to comply with a request by external law enforcement, accommodate the absence of a party, advisor or witness, or for other legitimate reasons, including the complexity of the investigation and the severity and extent of the alleged misconduct. The University will notify the parties in writing of any extension of the time frames for good cause and the reason for the extension.

In accordance with University policy, the University will review requests for language assistance and accommodation of disabilities throughout the investigation and adjudication process.

The investigator is responsible for gathering evidence as reasonably possible. Parties and witnesses are expected to provide all available relevant evidence to the investigator during the investigation. Each party will be given equal opportunity to suggest witnesses, provide other relevant information, such as medical, mental health or law enforcement documentation, communications, photographs and other evidence. If a party or witness fails to provide available relevant evidence during the investigation, such evidence may, at the discretion of the Hearing Decision-Maker, be excluded from consideration at the hearing. It is recommended that both parties suggest questions to be posed to the other party or witnesses. Parties and witnesses are expected to provide all available relevant evidence to the investigator during the investigation.

The Title IX Investigator will take the following steps (not necessarily in this order):

• The Investigator will arrange meetings with the complainant, respondent and any relevant witnesses. The Investigator will provide written notice no less than three business days prior to any meeting and both the complainant and the respondent are permitted to have an advisor of their choice attend the meeting(s).
• The Investigator will provide supportive measures, as necessary, to each of the parties involved.
• The Investigator will collect and compile all statements and evidence from the parties to assemble a Case File. Each party will have 10 business days to review and provide comments on the Case File.
• The Investigator will compile an Investigative Report of all relevant information surrounding the allegations for the parties to review and comment upon for ten business days.
• The Investigator, along with the Title IX Coordinator, will arrange a live hearing with a Hearing Decision-Maker and the parties involved.

Hearing

While the hearing is not intended to be a repeat of the investigation, the parties will be provided with an equal opportunity for their advisors to conduct cross-examination of the other party and/or of relevant witnesses that are present for the hearing. A typical hearing may include brief opening remarks by the Hearing Decision-Maker; questions posed by the Hearing Decision-Maker to one or both of the parties; questions posed by the Hearing Decision-Maker to any relevant witnesses; and cross-examination by either party’s advisor of the other party and relevant witnesses.

Determination

The Hearing Decision-Maker shall make a determination, by a clear and convincing standard, whether the respondent has violated the policy. The Hearing Decision-Maker will provide the Title IX Coordinator with the written determination and the Title IX Coordinator will provide the simultaneous written Notification of Outcome to both parties and their advisors, which will include relevant appeal information for the parties. Possible sanctions of the Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy, include but are not limited to written warning, required counseling, probation, suspension, expulsion, withholding diploma, revocation of degree, organizational sanctions, and/or other actions. For further information on the Title IX formal grievance process, please see the Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy.
If you would like to report a concern of harassment, discrimination (including sexual misconduct) or retaliation please fill out this form or visit the University’s Title IX Website for additional reporting options.

If you would like to discuss a situation or concern in a confidential manner, please contact the Counseling Center at 386-226-6035. By talking with a Counseling professional staff member, information shared will not be released without your consent unless there is a perceived threat to self, someone else, or as is required by law. The University is obligated by Arizona State Law to report any sexual misconduct or abuse of anyone under the age of 18 to local law enforcement.

On-Campus Resources

• Campus Safety & Security, Building 14: 928-777-3333
• Title IX Coordinator, Autumn Meyers-Parker (Prescott Campus): 386-226-6677
• Title IX Investigator and Education Specialist, Michael Williams (Building 14, Welcome Center): 928-777-6205 (office)
• Campus Wellness Center, Building 73: 928-777-6653
• Campus Counseling Center, Building 73/Chapel: 928-777-3312
• Housing & Residence Life, Building 73: 928-777-3744, 928-777-3790 (after hours)
• Women’s and Diversity, Building 16: 928-777-3968

Off-Campus Resources

• Law Enforcement: 911
• Prescott Police Department: 928-777-1900
• Prescott Valley Police Department:928-772-9261
• Chino Valley Police Department: 928-636-4223
• Yavapai County Sheriff's Department: 928-771-3260
• Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribal Police Department: 928-443-1599

Confidential Support and Advocacy

• Yavapai Family Advocacy Center (Sexual Assault Forensic Exams): 928-775-0669 

Medical

Yavapai Regional Medical Center - West
1003 Willow Creek Rd.
Prescott, AZ 86301
928-445-2700

Yavapai Regional Medical Center - East
7700 E. Florentine Rd.
Prescott Valley, AZ 86314
928-445-2700

Weapons

With the exception of law enforcement and authorized Campus Safety & Security Officers, it remains University policy that guns may not be possessed on property owned or controlled by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, including parking lots.

Possession of weapons and weapon replicas, including but not limited to firearms, BB guns, air guns, knives, swords, machetes, blow darts, spears, compound bows/arrows, Tasers, brass knuckles, slingshots, martial arts devices, dangerous chemicals, incendiary devices or other explosive substances including fireworks is prohibited and banned from University property. This policy includes ammunition, any device capable of firing or launching a projectile, or other objects classified or used as weapons with potential for danger or harm. Any exceptions to this policy must be approved in writing by the Director of Campus Safety & Security, including requests from Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) whose primary function involves the use of weapons or replicas. Pocket knives with blades two inches in length or shorter are allowed for functional purposes.

Other Dangerous Materials

Possession or use of a perceived or actual explosive or incendiary device/materials, including but not limited to fireworks, chemical or combination of chemicals, compounds and/or materials manufactured for the purpose of rupturing or bursting (i.e. dry ice or “toilet cleaning chemical” bomb). Having knowledge of the above or being in the presence of a chemical violation may constitute equal responsibility and involvement.

Possession of hazardous materials in undesignated areas is strictly prohibited. These items include but are not limited to flammable substances, flammable solvents, paint thinner, vehicle fluids (gas, jet fuel and oil), modified or damaged LiPo batteries, and more than a reasonable amount of spray paint.

Other pyrotechnic equipment, including but not limited to fog, smoke or fire machines, which may not be used in or around campus buildings.

Prohibited Items in Residence Halls

• Fire Safety Hazards: Halogen/ultraviolet/sun lamps; candles with wicks; flammable liquids/vapors; modified or damaged LiPo batteries; anything hanging from the ceiling; and/or unsafe extension cords. Extension cords must be UL approved, three-pronged and not contain any cuts, tears or splices. Extension cords and power strips must be plugged directly into a wall outlet; they cannot be plugged into one another (“daisy chaining”).
• Facilities/Décor Items: Loft kits not provided by the university; self-adhesive light strips of any kind; empty alcohol containers in a room without alcohol permits; satellite dishes; motorcycles, mopeds or similar vehicles and/or parts; waterbeds, hot tubs or pools; pornography in common/public areas; pets except for fish in a tank no larger than 10 gallons.
• Certain Appliances: Portable heaters, refrigerators over 4.0 Cu. Ft. or air conditioners not provided by the university; any appliance or item with an exposed heating element; induction cooktop.

The entire Student Handbook is available online here.

The Department of Housing & Residence Life is responsible for conducting health and safety inspections in the resident halls and to take action to correct any violations that occur within the housing environment.

Training is conducted by Housing & Residence Life for all residential students on evacuation procedures. Department of Housing & Residence Life, as well as Campus Safety & Security, monitor adherence to policy. Evacuation procedures are described in the Student Handbook.

It is the duty of all persons to report a possible fire to the Department of Housing & Residence Life or Campus Safety & Security. It is the responsibility of Housing & Residence Life and Campus Safety & Security to investigate and take action, if required. Campus Safety & Security is responsible for responding to all fire alarms and conducts an investigation with Department of Housing & Residence Life assistance. Campus Safety & Security is also responsible to coordinate with the local fire services as needed. It is Campus Safety & Security’s responsibility to document and report all fires in on campus student housing to the Department of Education in the annual Clery report.

Campus Safety and Security employs a EHS Programs Manager, whose responsibilities include oversight of safety training and routine fire inspections.

Annual Fire Statistics will be listed in a separate document that is available to the entire campus community on the Campus Safety and Security website. The Campus Annual Safe and Secure Environment report that lists all Clery requirements as to crime and fire safety is available on the Campus Safety and Security website. Campus Safety and Security is also responsible for completing the annual Campus Safety and Security survey.

All windows, doorways, hallways and stairwells are to remain unobstructed at all times. To block such areas is a violation of local fire codes. Fire codes require that the University conduct two fire drills each year in every on campus student housing facility. These drills are conducted during the first two weeks of the fall and spring semesters. Students must evacuate their buildings during all fire alarms. The fire code does not allow for any exceptions to this requirement.

Fire Alarm Evacuation Procedures

• Exit the building immediately.
• If in your room, close your door and take your key.
• Use stairways, not elevators.
• Once outside, move 100 feet away from the building to the designated assembly point.
• Notify staff of the possible location of the fire, if known, or the possible cause of the alarm, and also of possible residents remaining in the building.
• Do not re-enter an evacuated building until a University Official indicates the residents may return to the building. Silencing of an alarm does not indicate the building is safe to reenter.
• Failure to evacuate the building in a timely manner during any fire alarm may result in a $50 fine.

Any costs associated with a false alarm that is caused by negligence or malicious actions may result in the financial responsibility of the responsible party. To ensure that the smoke detectors and sprinklers are appropriately used and serve their designed function, dismantling, covering or otherwise altering them is prohibited. Tampering with any fire safety equipment (including smoke detectors, heat detectors, pull stations, sprinklers, fire extinguishers or any other fire safety device) may result in a minimum fine of $100. 

The Village, Thumb Butte Apartments (T1), Thumb Butte Apartment Suites (T2)

Hallway and community areas contain smoke and heat detectors. Activation of these devices will result in an evacuation of the building. There are smoke alarms within the suites/apartments that are not connected to the fire alarm system and therefore will not cause a building evacuation. In a non-fire related alarm (e.g., overcooked food), open the window and close the door to clear the room. Fan away from the detector, preferably with a damp towel, to shut the detector off. Opening the suite/apartment door to the main hallway will activate the alarm for the entire hall. Fire extinguishers are located in hallways. 

Mingus Mountain Complex

These five buildings do not utilize sprinklers. Smoke detectors are located in bedrooms. Heat detectors are located in lounges/kitchenettes. Fire extinguishers are located on the exterior walkways/balconies. Activation of a detector will sound the alarm in the entire building. Residents are advised to close bedroom doors when cooking or showering to avoid possible non-fire related alarms. 

Thumb Butte Complex

Smoke detectors are located in rooms. Heat detectors are located in kitchens. Fire extinguishers are located in hallways. Activation of a detector will sound the alarm in the entire building. 

Willow Creek Apartments

During the 2020-2021 school year, the University leased several apartments at the Willow Creek Apartments to serve as residential student housing. The apartments had smoke detectors. There were fire extinguishers in the units and in common areas. The evacuation system annunciates in the units and is tested monthly. The fire system is monitored by a U.L. List central station.

The Village, Thumb Butte Complex, Thumb Butte Apartments (T1), Thumb Butte Apartment Suites (T2) and Willow Creek Apartments are equipped with fire sprinkler systems. The sprinkler heads are heat and touch sensitive. Do not hang, touch or disrupt the sprinkler heads at any time. If a sprinkler head is activated due to negligence, the resident(s) in the room will be held accountable for damage costs. If the sprinkler head is activated in a common area due to negligence, the residents of the building will be held accountable for damages unless the person who activated the sprinkler head is identified. Sprinkler system discharge can result in thousands of dollars in damages plus personal property loss.