Christopher Newport University Sexual Misconduct Policy
The Board of Visitors prohibits conduct by members of the University community, which harms the learning process, the academic environment, or the University's image and reputation. Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault by any member of the campus community defeats the mission of the University and endangers the well-being of faculty, students, and staff. The Board of Visitors expects the highest standards of personal behavior from its faculty, staff and students.
Christopher Newport University is a community of trust and respect whose existence depends on strict adherence to standards of conduct set by and for its members. CNU recognizes its obligation to uphold the laws and standards of the community of which it is a part. Sexual misconduct is a serious violation of these standards and will not be tolerated. Punishable by both civil and criminal legal action, sexual assault is a serious violation of University policy. The University Judicial System adjudicates, at the request of the complainant, all cases involving sexual misconduct where the accused is a Christopher Newport University student. CNU encourages all complainants to prosecute to the full extent of the law.
Sexual misconduct in the Student Code of Conduct is defined as a violation of the abusive conduct policy (refer to Section II-PART II, A. 1.). Depending on the circumstances of the case, students who are found in violation of the abusive conduct policy may receive sanctions, which include suspension for one or more semesters or dismissal from the University.
Resources available to complainants:
Students who feel they have been a victim of a sexual assault should first seek appropriate medical attention as soon as possible. Every effort should be made to find the emotional support necessary. Physical and other medical evidence should be collected even if the student has not yet decided if any course of action will be taken against the assailant. Students can go to Riverside Hospital, located on
J. Clyde Morris Boulevard (Rt. 17) for medical assistance.
Judicial Action available to complainants:
Students who feel they have been sexually assaulted have several legal options to explore. Within the University community, victims are encouraged to complete an incident report. The student filing the complaint must be willing to testify at all judicial proceedings in order for University efforts to proceed.
Civil and criminal action may also be taken through the appropriate court system. Initiating criminal or civil action against the accused does not prevent the complainant from pursuing University judicial action.
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