Reporting — Police Reports

REPORTS TO THE POLICE START CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS

West Virginia State University encourages individuals to report incidents of sexual misconduct to Public Safety or local police. Timely reporting to the police is an important factor in successful investigation and prosecution of crimes, including sexual violence crimes, and may lead to the arrest of an offender or aid in the investigation of other incidents.

An individual who has experienced sexual misconduct has the right to choose whether to file a police report. Filing a police report can result in the investigation of whether sexual violence or related crimes occurred and the prosecution of those crimes against a perpetrator.

The WVSU Department of Public Safety has officers who are specially trained to work with individuals reporting sexual violence. Public Safety can also assist in reviewing options with survivors and identifying and facilitating support resources related to:

• Seeking medical attention
• Seeking support, advocacy and counseling services
• Discussing legal options, including seeking protective orders from a court
• Options under the University’s sexual misconduct investigation process

Reports of sexual misconduct made to Public Safety will automatically be reported to the Title IX Coordinator regardless of whether the individual who experienced the sexual misconduct chooses to pursue criminal charges.

Dial 911 for all EMERGENCY SITUATIONS

Department of Public Safety
West Virginia State University
305 Barron Drive, Ferrell House
Institute, WV 25112-1000
Phone: (304) 766-3181
Fax: (304) 766-5193