The University of Texas at Tyler

Annual Security Report

October 2009

The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act is a federal law that requires colleges and universities to disclose information about crime on and around their campuses. The act is named in memory of Jeanne Clery, a 19-year-old Lehigh University freshman who was assaulted and murdered in her residence hall room on April 5, 1986.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I.     Law Enforcement Authority and Interagency Relations

• Reporting Crimes
• Confidential Crime Reporting Procedures
• Criminal Activity Off Campus

II.    Procedures for Reporting Crimes or Emergencies

• Voluntary Confidential Reporting
• Electronic Reporting
• Disclosure of Crime Statistics
• Timely Warnings

III.  Maintenance, Security of, and Access to Campus Facilities

• Access to Campus Facilities
• Residence Life

IV.   Security Prevention and Crime Awareness

• General Safety
• Evacuation and Lockdown Notifications
• Safety Tips

V.    Drug and Alcohol Policy

• UT Tyler Standards of Conduct
• UT Tyler Penalties
• Health Risks of Alcohol and Drugs
• Drug and Alcohol Policies
• Counseling and Rehabilitation Programs
• Campus Awareness and Educations

VI.   Dangerous Weapons on Campus  

VII.  Sex Offense Policy and Procedure

VIII. Registered Sex Offender Policy

IX.   Availability of Annual Security Report Notice

X.     Crime Statistics

XI.   Student Right to Know Information

I.   Law Enforcement Authority and Interagency Relations

The University of Texas at Tyler Police Department is recognized as a police agency throughout the State of Texas. The University Police Department is comprised of Police Officers and Guards. The Police Department is located at 3410 Varsity Drive in the University Services Center building.

The UT Tyler Police Department is a full-service law enforcement agency which operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.  The Police Officers of the department are vested with all the powers and immunities as other Peace Officers in the State of Texas. The University Police Officers have the authority to make arrests, issue traffic citations and enforce parking and traffic regulations on the University of Texas at Tyler campus.

The University Police Department also employs University Guards that are unarmed civilian personnel and do not have police authority.  The University Guards are utilized for patrols of the campus, building lock-ups and unlocks, providing motor vehicle assists such as jump starting and lockout entry, and other service calls as needed.  The guards also provide assistance to the University Police Officers.

The University Police Officers are certified peace officers who have attended the University of Texas System Police Academy in Austin, Texas, for approximately twenty two (22) weeks, and have passed the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education licensing examination for police officers.  Police officers with the University Police Department must also receive at least forty hours of in-service training every two years in order to comply with the State of Texas licensing requirements for police officers. The primary jurisdiction of the UT Tyler Police Officers is the University campus, but UT Tyler officers have jurisdiction county-wide in Smith County, as well as all other counties in which the University of Texas owns or leases property.

The University Police Department works closely with other State, Local, and Federal agencies.  The University Police Department receives its primary support from the City of Tyler Police Department. 

For crimes occurring on the Palestine or Longview campuses of the University of Texas at Tyler, the University Police Department receives its primary support from the Palestine Police Department and Longview Police Department.

The Palestine Campus of the University of Texas at Tyler is staffed with a full time University Guard.  To report an emergency on the Palestine campus, dial 9-1-1.  To report a crime that has already occurred, contact the on-duty University Guard or dial (903) 729-2254 to contact the Palestine Police Department.  The University of Texas at Tyler Police Department will work in cooperation with the Palestine Police Department in investigating crimes that occur on the Palestine campus. 

The Longview Campus of the University of Texas at Tyler is staffed with a full time University Guard.  To report an emergency on the Longview campus, dial 9-1-1.  To report a crime that has already occurred, contact the on-duty University Guard or dial (903) 237-1199 to contact the Longview Police Department.  The University of Texas at Tyler Police Department will work in cooperation with the Longview Police Department in investigating crimes that occur on the Longview campus. 

 Reporting Crimes

The University of Texas at Tyler encourages accurate and prompt reporting of crimes to the University Police and/or other local authorities in a timely fashion.  If you have been the victim of, or have knowledge of a crime being committed, contact the authorities as soon as possible.  The Police Department will investigate all crimes occurring in its jurisdiction regardless of delay in reporting, but prompt reporting allows for investigation while witnesses are still available and evidence still exists.  

Confidential Crime Reporting Procedures

As a result of the negotiated rulemaking process which followed the signing into law, the 1998 amendments to 20 U.S.C. Section 1092 (f), clarification as given to those considered to be campus security authorities.  Campus "Pastoral Counselors" and Campus "Professional Counselors", when acting as such, are not to be considered campus security authorities and are not required to report crimes for inclusion into the annual disclosure of crime statistics.  As a matter of policy, they are encouraged, if and when they deem appropriate, to inform persons being counseled of the procedures to report crimes on a voluntary basis for inclusion into the annual crime statistics.  The rulemaking committee defines counselors as:

Pastoral Counselor:  An employee of an institution who is associated with a religious order or denomination, recognized by that religious order or denomination as someone who provides confidential counseling and who is functioning within the scope of that recognition as a pastoral counselor.

Professional Counselor:  An employee of an institution whose official responsibilities include providing psychological counseling to members of the institution's community and who is functioning within the scope of his or her license or certification.

Criminal Activity Off Campus

When a University of Texas at Tyler student is involved in an off-campus offense, police officers may assist with the investigation in cooperation with local, state, or federal law enforcement.  Tyler Police routinely work with and communicate with campus police officers on any serious incidents occurring on campus or in the immediate neighborhood and business areas surrounding campus.  The University of Texas at Tyler operates no off-campus housing or off-campus student organization facilities.  However, many students live in the neighborhoods surrounding the University of Texas at Tyler.  While the Tyler Police Department has primary jurisdiction in all areas off campus, UT Tyler officers can and do respond to student-related incidents that occur in close proximity to campus.  UT Tyler officers have direct radio communications with city police, fire department, and ambulance services to facilitate rapid response in any emergency situation.  

II.     Procedures for Reporting Crimes or Emergencies

To report an emergency or criminal activity on campus, dial (903) 566-7300 or 9-1-1.  There are also numerous Code Blue emergency telephones spread throughout the campus grounds.  Push button access on these emergency phones connects you directly to a police dispatcher.   In addition to University Police Department personnel, crimes can also be reported to any campus security authority as defined by the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act including:

Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

Vice President for Student Affairs

Assistant Vice President for Student Success

Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Management

Dean, College of Business & Technology

Dean, College of Education and Psychology

Dean, College of Engineering & Computer Science

Dean, College of Arts & Sciences

Dean, College of Nursing & Health Sciences

Associate Dean for Enrollment Management, Financial Aid, and Registrar's Office

Director of Student Development

Director of Student Services

Director of Residence Life and Judicial Affairs

Academic Advisors

Housing Managers

Resident Assistants

Athletics- Directors & Coaches

The University of Texas at Tyler Police Department has concurrent jurisdiction on campus with the City of Tyler Police Department.  If you prefer to report a crime to the Tyler Police Department, do so by dialing (903) 531-1000.  If you have been the victim of or have knowledge of a crime being committed outside the incorporated city limits of Tyler, you may contact the Smith County Sheriff’s Department at (903) 590-2600.   If you need assistance in reporting the crime to local authorities, university police personnel will assist you.

Voluntary Confidential Reporting

You may anonymously report a crime or provide other information to the University of Texas at Tyler Police Department by utilizing the Silent Witness Program.  Anonymous reports may be made on the University Police website located at www.uttyler.edu/police/silentwitness.html 

Electronic Reporting

If you are concerned about behavior of a student, please use the link provided on the Police Department website at http://www.uttyler.edu/housing/behavioralconcerns.htm to report that information to the Student Concerns Committee.  The link will take you to the Student of Concern electronic report page.  Please include all relevant information you can in the forms on that page before clicking on the submit button.  Please include your contact information so we can follow up if we need more information.   If you have an immediate concern, please contact the University Police Department at (903) 566-7060 or dial 911 if it is an emergency.

Disclosure of Crime Statistics

Annual crime statistics are compiled and disseminated to the campus community through the annual security report.  The statistics are based upon reports of criminal activity to the University Police, reports of criminal activity submitted by other campus security authorities, and statistics from local law enforcement agencies that share jurisdiction with the University of Texas at Tyler Police Department.  The annual report is prepared by the U.T. Tyler Chief of Police.  

The U.T. Tyler Chief of Police is designated as the individual to oversee campus security authorities and is responsible for canvassing these individuals and offices and collecting and reviewing crime reports for inclusion in the annual security report and the Web-based report to the U.S. Department of Education. 

Offense categories for 2006, 2007 and 2008 crime statistics are provided in compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act.   Any questions should be directed to the University Police Department at 903-566-7060.

Timely Warnings

In accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, timely warnings will be issued to the campus community when a crime or attempted crime occurs on campus, or in the immediate area around campus, that represents an ongoing threat to the campus community.  These will include all crimes reported to the University Police Department, directly or indirectly.  Those alerts will be disseminated by methods including campus email, campus electronic bulletin board postings, postings on bulletin boards inside campus buildings, and in certain cases, text messaging.  These messages will be issued by the Chief of Police and/or his designee.

III.   Maintenance, Security of, and Access to Campus Facilities

The University of Texas at Tyler's residential facilities include:

Ornelas Hall

Patriot Village Apartments

University Pines Apartments

Police personnel regularly patrol the residential facilities.  Resident Assistants are also on duty at all times to assist residents as needed.  The Police Department meets with all Resident Assistants at the beginning of each Fall semester and periodically throughout the year to discuss security issues.  

Residents are encouraged to contact the police department directly with reports of suspicious activity, crimes in progress, or any security concerns. 

Parking lots and campus buildings are patrolled by campus officers to ensure the safety of students, employees, and visitors.  Safety issues such as poor lighting, excessive vegetation and shrubbery growth are reported.  Students and employees are encouraged to assist in the safety of the campus community by reporting and safety or security hazards.

Police Personnel routinely check doors, lights, and the grounds for defects and unsafe conditions.  All safety concerns noted are directed to the Physical Plant for corrections.  In addition, the Safety Officer on campus reports any safety issues discovered in relation to the security of the campus, and they are brought to the attention of the Chief of Police.

In addition, inspectors with the University of Texas System Police conduct periodic inspections of campus facilities and grounds.  Recommendations are made to the Chief of Police and the Office of the President regarding safety and security issues.

Access to Campus Facilities

After normal business hours, including weekends and holidays, non-academic campus buildings are closed and secured in order to protect the safety and security of the university.  Academic buildings are normally locked between 10 pm and 6 am.  Students and employees needing access to those buildings or rooms may contact the University Police Department at 903-566-7300 for admittance.

Residence Life

UT Tyler Residence Life takes each student’s safety very seriously and provides staff members on duty 24 hours a day.

The University of Texas at Tyler recognizes and respects your privacy; however, the University may enter into your apartment/suite at any time in the event of an emergency and at any time for any reasonable purpose, including, without limitation, inspection, cleaning, or maintenance purposes.  There may be entry without notice in emergencies where imminent danger to life, safety, health, or property is reasonably feared. Access to apartments or rooms will not be granted to friends, relatives, or other students by staff. You should keep your door closed and locked and telephone the front desk or University Police if you have concerns about who is coming into your apartment.

Patriot Village:

Gated access to the property with card access to all suites.

Six live-in resident assistants and a head resident assistant are on site.

Closed circuit security cameras and emergency phones on premises.

24-hour front desk and community center assistance.

In the event of an emergency evacuation, all residents are to leave the complex by the quickest means. Patriot Village residents should exit by the stairwell closest to their apartment and exit the complex by the east foot gate or the front foot gates. Residents should proceed to Parking Lot 14, the Baseball parking lot. Residents must remain in Parking Lot 10, so that an accurate roll can be taken. Ornelas Hall residents should exit by the nearest stairwell and proceed to Parking Lot 15. Residents must remain in Parking Lot 15 so an accurate roll can be taken. Once per month, Residence Life staff will enter rooms to check safety equipment (fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and related equipment). Staff also will check for trip hazards, fire hazards, and general cleanliness, and to ensure that all University-owned appliances are working correctly. 

Keys:

Residents may not lend their I.D. card to anyone. Students who violate this policy will be subject to disciplinary action. A lost mail key will result in a $50 re-core charge. Lost ID cards will result in a $15 charge. Students who lock themselves out of their room and must be let in by staff will be billed $10 for the third and any following instances. Activating a new ID to replace a lost ID will be considered a lock-out.

Unauthorized Entry:

Entry into apartments or suites other than your own, or into offices, meeting rooms, or other restricted areas in University housing is prohibited. Individuals violating this policy will be subject to disciplinary action and a $50 charge.

Visitation:

Patriot Village apartments offer 24-hour visitation. Twenty-four hour visitation is a privilege that can be revoked if the University finds residents abusing it. Cohabitation, noise, roommate complaints, parties, and other disruptive activities may result in the suspension of this visitation privilege and the establishment of more restrictive visitation hours.

Ornelas Hall:

Eight resident assistants, a head RA, and the ADRL live in Ornelas Hall.

24-hour front desk assistance

Card access locks to the suites

Ornelas Hall residents may have guests of the opposite sex in their rooms from 10 AM until midnight, Sunday through Thursday. Friday and Saturday the hours are from 10AM until 2 AM.

UPINES:

24-hour emergency maintenance and onsite management

IV.     Security Awareness and Crime Prevention

A continuing partnership between the University Police Department and everyone who lives, works and studies at the University of Texas at Tyler is the key to a safe campus.

We encourage students, faculty and staff to be responsible for their own safety and the safety of others. Alertness, common sense precautions and concern for others are keys to preventing crime and helping us ensure the safety of our campus.  The University of Texas at Tyler Police Department urges you to be aware of your surroundings and environment in order to maintain the highest possible level of safety within the U.T. Tyler campus community.

In accordance with the Campus Security Act of 1990, the University of Texas provides the following information and programs:

• Daily Crime Log:  A daily crime log in maintained at the University Police Department located at 3410 Varsity Drive and is open to public inspection during regular business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.  The Daily Crime Log includes any crimes occurring on the Tyler, Palestine, or Longview campuses.  The Daily Crime Log is also accessible online at www.uttyler.edu/police/DailyActivityLog.htm

• Freshman Orientation:  The University of Texas provides all incoming freshman students with information concerning safety and security.  In addition, the University Police Department speaks to parents of incoming freshman students regarding campus security policy, safety and security.

• Emergency Flip Charts:  Located in every building on campus, these emergency charts provide recommended courses of action to take in the event of an emergency.

• Amplified Outdoor Emergency Notification System:  During certain emergencies the system will be utilized to notify the campus community of the emergency and recommended course of action.

• Crime Prevention Materials and Presentations: These are available at the University Police Department upon request.

• Self Defense Program for Women: Program teaching the fundamentals of crime prevention as well as hand on physical defense techniques.  This program is available upon request through the University Police Department at no cost to participants.

• Crime Prevention Compensation Act: Information is available at the University Police Department and is given to anyone who is a victim of a violent crime or a relative of a victim of a violent crime.

• External Awareness: Crime prevention statistics and information are distributed through the campus newspaper, bulletin boards, special bulletins and annual reports.

• Security Surveys: Performed regularly to assure that the physical elements that contribute to crime are reduced, i.e., doors are locked, vegetation is under control and internal and external lighting is appropriate.

• Safe Walk Program: Upon request, the University Police Department provides students and employees an escort to their vehicles and/or on campus housing.

• Operation ID: Electronic etching pencils are available for checkout at the Police Department if students and employees wish to engrave their driver's license number on their property. This method is valuable in the identification of stolen items.

General Safety

Fire Alarm

If you hear a Fire Alarm:

*Turn off electrical equipment
*Close door against fire
*Don't use elevators
*Use fire exit stairwells
*Calmly evacuate to an open area 100 yards away from the affected building

Fire
If you discover a Fire:

*Activate the nearest fire alarm pull station
*Dial 911
*Notify other in your area
*Calmly evacuate to an open area 100 yards away from the affected building

Bomb Threat
If you receive a Bomb Threat:

* Elicit as much information as possible
* Calmly notify others in your area
* Dial 911
* Check your immediate area for suspicious objects. DO NOT HANDLE ANY OBJECT FOUND.
*Calmly evacuate to an outside area 300 yards away from the affected building

· Weather Emergency
In the event of a Weather Emergency:
*Take cover in designated "safe areas" or under heavy furniture on the ground floor in the center of a building,
away from the outside walls and windows.
*If outside, take cover and lie flat in the nearest drainage ditch, excavation or ravine.
*Avoid auditoriums, lecture halls, laboratories, studios and hazardous chemical storage areas.

Medical Emergency
If you experience a Medical Emergency:

*Dial 911.
*An employee should also report the injury to his or her supervisor.

Evacuation and Lockdown Notifications

In certain emergencies, for the safety of the campus community, it may be necessary to either evacuate or to lock down building(s).  During these emergencies, the University emergency personnel will utilize a multi-layered warning system in an effort to inform as many members of the campus community as possible.  These warnings will be disseminated by several means including but not limited to emergency text notification system, campus email, voice mail notifications, and amplified outdoor warning systems.

It is highly recommended that all members of the campus community sign up for emergency text notifications.  Subscribing to the service is free.  The campus community may sign up for the service on the police department front webpage at www.uttyler.edu/police

Safety Tips

 Driving:

• Always tell someone where you are going and what time you expect to return.
• Never pick up hitchhikers.
• Have your keys out and ready.
• Make an inspection of the interior before you enter your vehicle.  Once inside, lock all doors and windows.
• Park in well-lighted areas.  Do not park where suspicious persons are loitering. 
• Trust and follow your instincts.

 Off Campus:

• Keep doors and windows locked at all times.  All exterior doors should be equipped with deadbolt locks.
• Know whom to call in an emergency. 
• Do not open your door for anyone you do not know.  If a person in uniform knocks and you did not call for assistance, contact the person’s place of employment to verify the reason for the visit.
• Use outside lighting and keep shrubbery trimmed around windows and doors.

 On Campus:

• Never leave your personal property unsecured or unattended.
• Look around and be aware of your surroundings when you enter and exit a building.
• Be aware of your surroundings and think about how you would defend yourself.  Develop a “game plan” for prevention.
• Avoid walking alone, particularly after dark.  If walking alone is unavoidable, be aware of your surroundings.
• Walk with confidence and determination, holding your head up.  Look behind and around you frequently.
• Avoid shortcuts.  The shortest route is not always the safest route.
• Dress for mobility, particularly after dark.
• Carry your personal belongings in a backpack or similar container that will enable your arms and hands to be free at all times.
• Never allow someone to predict your route of travel.  Whether you are driving, biking, walking or jogging, frequently alter your route between campus and your residence.
• Call (903) 566-7300 for an escort to your car or campus residence if you for any reason fear for your safety.

 On Dates:

• Know your sexual limits and communicate them clearly and firmly.
• Do not allow your body language to send a different message than what you are verbally communicating.
• Avoid the use of mind-altering drugs. (This includes alcohol.)
• Listen to and respond to your instincts.  They are usually correct.

 Residence Halls:

• Never prop your door open, even if you will be gone for only a few minutes.  Always lock doors, screens, and windows to prevent uninvited access to your room.
• Do not go inside your residence if you return and find that the door is ajar.  Immediately notify the police.
• Do not give anyone a key to your room.  If you lose your room key, report it immediately to your Residence Advisor.
• Do not leave valuables in plain sight.  Register, engrave, mark, and/or photograph all your valuables including bicycles, stereos, jewelry, vehicles, computers, etc.
• Be aware of suspicious persons and activities.  If you observe someone or something suspicious, notify the residence staff and the UTT Police Department.
• Report any obscene, annoying, or threatening telephone calls to the UTT Police Department.

 V.  Drug and Alcohol Policy

UT Tyler Standards of Conduct

Subsection 3.21 of Chapter VI, Part One of the Rules and Regulations of the Board of Regents of the University of Texas System provides for the disciplinary action against any student who engages in conduct that is prohibited by state, federal and local law. This includes those laws prohibiting the use, possession or distribution of drugs and alcohol.

UT Tyler Penalties

UT Tyler maintains a strict zero tolerance policy regarding the use of illegal drugs. Students who are found engaging in conduct related to the use, possession, or distribution of drugs that are prohibited by state, federal, or local law face arrest and suspension or expulsion from the university. Additional penalties that may be imposed for conduct related to the unlawful use, possession, or distribution of drugs or alcohol include payment for damage to or misappropriation of property, suspension of rights and privileges, suspension for a specified period of time, expulsion, or such other penalty as may be deemed appropriate under the circumstances.

It is important that students are also aware of the many health risks associated with the misuse of alcohol and other drugs.

Health Risks of Alcohol and Drugs

It is important that each student at the University of Texas at Tyler be aware of the health risks and the counseling and rehabilitative programs available as well as standards of conduct and legal and disciplinary sanctions.

Alcohol. Health hazards associated with the excessive use of alcohol or with alcohol dependency include dramatic behavioral changes, retardation of motor skills, and impairment of reasoning and rational thinking. These factors result in a higher incidence of accidents and accidental deaths for such persons than non-users of alcohol. Nutrition also suffers and vitamin and mineral deficiencies are frequent. Prolonged alcohol abuse causes bleeding from the intestinal tract, damage to liver, often resulting in cirrhosis, impotence, severe inflammation of the pancreas, and damage to the bone marrow, heart, testes, ovaries and muscles. Damage to the nerves and organs is usually irreversible. Cancer is the second leading cause of death in alcoholics and is ten times more frequent than in non-alcoholics. Sudden withdrawal of alcohol from persons dependent on it will cause serious physical withdrawal symptoms.

Drugs. The use of illicit drugs usually causes the same general type of physiological and mental changes as alcohol, though frequently those changes are more severe and more sudden. Death or coma resulting from overdose of drugs is more frequent than from alcohol, but, unlike alcohol, abstinence can lead to reversal of most physical problems associated with drug use.

Cocaine. Cocaine is a stimulant that is most commonly inhaled as a powder. It can be dissolved in water and used intravenously. The cocaine extract (freebase) is smoked. Users progress from infrequent use to dependence within a few weeks or months. Psychological and behavioral changes resulting from the use include over-stimulation, hallucinations, irritability, sexual dysfunction, psychotic behavior, social isolation, and memory problems. An overdose produces convulsions and delirium, and may result in death from cardiac arrest. Discontinuing the use of cocaine requires considerable assistance, close supervision and treatment.

Amphetamines (speed, love drug, ecstasy). Patterns of use and associated effects are similar to cocaine. Severe intoxication may produce confusion, rambling, and incoherent speech, anxiety, psychotic behavior, ringing in the ears, hallucinations and irreversible brain damage. Intense fatigue and depression resulting from use can lead to suicide. Large doses may result in convulsions and death from cardiac or respiratory arrest.

Heroin and other Opiates. These drugs are usually taken intravenously. "Designer" drugs similar to opiates include Fentanyl, Demerol and "China White". Addiction and dependence develop rapidly. impaired judgment, slurred speech and drowsiness characterize use. Overdose is manifested by coma, shock and depressed respiration, with the possibility of death from respiratory arrest. Withdrawal problems include sweating, diarrhea, fever, insomnia, irritability, nausea and vomiting and muscle and joint pain.

Hallucinogens or Psychedelics. These include LSD, mescaline, peyote and phencyclidine (PCP or "angel dust").Use impairs and distorts one's perception of surroundings, causes bizarre mood changes and results in visual hallucinations that involve geometric forms, colors and persons or objects. Users who discontinue use experience "flashback", consisting of distortions of virtually any sensation. Withdrawal may require psychiatric treatment for the accompanying persistent psychotic states. Suicide is not uncommon.

Solvent inhalants, e.g., glue lacquers, plastic cement. Fumes from these substances cause problems similar to alcohol. Incidents of hallucinations and permanent brain damage are more frequent.

Marijuana (Cannabis). Marijuana is usually ingested by smoking. Prolonged use can lead to psychological dependence, disconnected ideas and alteration of depth perception and sense of time, impaired judgment and impaired coordination.

Damage from intravenous drug use. In addition to the adverse effects associated with the use of a specific drug, intravenous drug users who use un-sterilized needles, or who share needles with other drug users can develop AIDS, hepatitis, tetanus (lock jaw), and infections of the heart. Permanent brain damage may also result. The use of alcohol and many of these drugs cause birth defects of a very serious nature.

Drug and Alcohol Policies

The unauthorized purchase, manufacture, distribution, possession, sale, storage or use of an illegal drug, alcoholic beverage, or controlled substance while on campus or on property owned or controlled by the University is prohibited. In addition to imposition of disciplinary sanctions such as suspension for a period of time and suspensions of rights and privileges from the University, students, employees and visitors may face prosecution and imprisonment under Federal and Texas laws which make such acts felony and misdemeanor crimes. Individuals, regardless of age or life stages, become vulnerable to developing addiction to alcohol and other drugs as a result of the stress and frustration they experience. It is important that each student at The University of Texas at Tyler be aware of the health risks and the counseling and rehabilitative programs available as well as standards of conduct and legal and disciplinary sanctions.

The possession, sale or the furnishing of alcohol on the University campus is governed by U.T. Tyler alcohol policy and Texas state law. Laws regarding the possession, sale, consumption or furnishing of alcohol is controlled by the Texas Alcoholic Beverages Commission (T.A.B.C.).  However, the enforcement of alcohol laws on-campus is the primary responsibility of the U.T. Tyler Police Department. The U.T. Tyler campus has been designated “Drug free” and only under certain circumstances is the consumption of alcohol permitted.  This policy is strictly enforced by the U.T. Tyler Police Department. 

Persons under the age of 21 who are found to have alcoholic beverage in their possession may be charged with “Minor in Possession of Alcoholic Beverage, a Class C Misdemeanor which carries a fine of up to $500, as well as facing university disciplinary action.

Persons at least 21 years of age who are found to have alcoholic beverages in their possession while on campus property may face disciplinary action by the University. 

It is unlawful to sell, furnish or provide alcohol to a person under the age of 21.  Violators are subject to being prosecuted for a Class B Misdemeanor for which the punishment is up to 180 days in jail and a $2000 fine. 

Organizations or groups violating alcohol/substance policies or laws may be subject to sanctions by the University.

Counseling and Rehabilitation Programs

The Student Counseling Center assists students who are referred or self-referred for problems related to alcohol/drug abuse in finding a treatment setting in the community which will accommodate their needs. This assistance is available in addition to any initial help provided in the University's counseling office. All counseling services and records in the Student Counseling Service Center are confidential in accordance with state and federal laws. No record of use of this service is kept in placement files, academic records or official transcripts. The Student Counseling Center is located in the University Center, Room 282.You may come by or call 566-7079 for an appointment.
The most commonly used community referral services are:

• Alcoholics Anonymous (Tyler, Longview, Jacksonville) 903-597-1796
• Tyler Drug Abuse Program (T-DAP) 903-561-7055
• Smith County Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse 903-597-0115

Contact the Student Counseling Center for a complete list of community referral services.

Campus Awareness and Education

The Student Services Office has drug and alcohol abuse materials and programs available to all persons. Informational programs are organized during the Fall and Spring semesters focusing on prevention as well as the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse.  The Student Services Office is located at 3900 University Blvd., Administration Building room 360 and can be contacted at (903) 566-7179.  For more information concerning materials and programs, you may access the Student Services Office online at http://www.uttyler.edu/studentservices

VI.  Dangerous Weapons on Campus

As a component of the University of Texas System, The University of Texas at Tyler in an institution of higher education, complete with training and teaching centers and students. It is in the interest of the safety of students, employees and visitors, that there is no tolerance for dangerous weapons on the campus of the University of Texas at Tyler. A dangerous weapon is described as any firearm, explosive device or illegal knife. The campus is described as the grounds upon which the University is located, as well as the buildings and vehicles within that boundary. To possess a dangerous weapon means to have that weapon under your control while on campus.Section 46.03 of the Texas Penal Code states that "A person commits an offense if, with a firearm, or explosive weapon, or illegal knife, he intentionally, knowingly or recklessly goes on the premises of a school or educational institution, whether public or private, unless pursuant to written regulations or written authorization of the institution and that offense under this section is a third degree felony". The fact that a person is licensed to carry a concealed firearm does not give him or her legal standing to carry a firearm into any building on the campus of the University of Texas at Tyler. Remember that it is in the interest of the safety of our students, employees and visitors that this regulation will continue to be enforced. There is never an excuse for bringing a dangerous weapon into any building on campus. There are no exceptions to this regulation.

 VII.  Sex Offense Policy and Procedure

It is the policy of the University of Texas at Tyler to investigate all reported sex offenses (forcible and non-forcible) that occur on the property of the University of Texas at Tyler.  The University Police will investigate all allegations that a sex offense has been committed. If evidence from the police investigation indicates that an employee be disciplined, those actions will be in accordance with procedures outlined in the Handbook of Operating Procedures, Section VI, Paragraph 1, Discipline and Dismissal Policy and Procedure. Any disciplinary action taken will not preclude the continuance or subsequent outcome of the police investigation including the filing of criminal charges against the employee.

If evidence from the police investigation indicates that a student be disciplined, those actions will be in accordance with the Student Guide, Topic V, Student Rights and Responsibilities, Section D, Student Conduct and Discipline. Both the accused and the victim may have others present during any disciplinary proceedings and may call witnesses to refute or support any allegations.  The victim and alleged offender are entitled to and will be given the results of any disciplinary action involving any sex-related offense.  Any disciplinary action taken will not preclude the continuance or subsequent outcome of the police investigation, including the filing of criminal charges against the student, unless directed to do otherwise by the complainant and/or the Smith County District Attorney's Office.

In the event a sex offense is committed on campus, the victim should report the incident immediately to the University Police Department located at 3410 Varsity Drive in the University Service Center building, or by calling 9-1-1 or 903-566-7300.  A University Police Officer will respond as soon as possible to begin the investigation.  An officer will assist the victim in getting medical attention, if necessary, and preserving any evidence that would support the allegation of a sex offense.  The Police Department will follow state law as it relates to charges and arrests made as a result of the investigation.  If the victim does not wish to report the sexual offense to the University Police Department, he or she may report the incident to the City of Tyler Police Department.  An officer with the University Police Department will assist the victim in contacting the City of Tyler Police Department.  The victim is encouraged to call a friend to be with them during the initial investigation.  The Student Counseling Center is available for help to victims, if they desire. Students who are victims of a sex offense have the option of changing their academic and living conditions after an alleged sex offense, if the victim requests those changes and the changes are reasonably available.  The Counseling Center is located in University Center, Room 282, or can be called at 903-566-7079. Other counseling and crisis centers in the area include:

The following programs are offered through Wellness and Prevention Education Services:

Acquaintance Rape/Sexual Assault Prevention Education - to increase awareness of sexual assault and partner violence issues related to on and off campus safety.  Counseling for victims of any type of sexual assault is available to students through Wellness and Prevention Education Services and the Student Counseling Center.  The Student Counseling Center can be accessed at (903) 566-7254 or online at http://www.uttyler.edu/counseling/services.html  Programs aimed at the prevention of sexual assault such as Take Back the Night and Walk a Mile in Her Shoes are conducted annually by the Wellness and Education Services. 

Alcohol/ Drug Abuse Prevention Education - to increase awareness of the negative consequences of substance abuse and to assist in making responsible decisions in regards to alcohol and other drug use. Alcohol/drug abuse referral assistance is provided to students through Wellness and Prevention Education Services and the Student Counseling Center to locate treatment settings that will accommodate individual needs.

Education for Other Health-Related Issues - topics that may affect university-level students (nutrition, exercise, stress, eating disorders, etc.) are presented to students through various means such as displays, presentations, health fairs and others.

Peer Education - Wellness and Prevention Education works with various student groups interested in educating their peers on any of the above issues. University Mother's Against Drunk Driving (UMADD) and Campus Assault Response Effort (CARE) student organizations are advised by Wellness and Prevention Education.

Personal Counseling - A licensed professional counselor coordinated through the Student Counseling Center is available to provide a variety of services for a wide range of concerns in a trusting and confidential setting.

Sexual Responsibility Education  - to increase awareness of topics such as STDs/STIs, consent, and abstinence in order to encourage responsible decision-making regarding sexual issues among students.

Student Health Insurance Information - Student health insurance is available to currently enrolled students at The University of Texas at Tyler.  

CARE Program - Victims of sexual assault may also report anonymously through the Campus Assault Response Effort Program (CARE).  Victims reporting through CARE will be afforded all services, including forensic examination, with the option of not having initial law enforcement intervention.  The CARE program, through the U.T. Wellness and Prevention Office, provides education programs to promote awareness of rape, acquaintance rape, and other forcible and non-forcible sex offenses.  To learn more about the CARE program, contact any of the following:

University Health Clinic  (903) 566-0278

Kim Harvey-Livingston, U.T. Wellness and Prevention  (903) 566-7197

Student Counseling Center (903) 566-7254

VIII.  Registered Sex Offender Policy

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 U.T. Tyler Police Department is providing a link to the Texas state sex offender registry.

Persons wishing to inquire concerning registered sex offenders on campus may search the Texas Department of Public Safety registered sex offender database.  That database can be accessed at   https://records.txdps.state.tx.us/DPS_WEB/Sor/index.aspx  A specific link is provided for searching by institution of higher education.

Registered sex offenders who are students, staff, faculty, or volunteers on campus are required to notify the law enforcement agency in which they are registered of their affiliation with the University of Texas at Tyler.  Registered sex offenders are further required to notify the Chief of Police of the University of Texas at Tyler of their affiliation.

The University of Texas at Tyler Police Department maintains a list of registered sex offenders who are either a student, staff, faculty member, or volunteer on campus.  This list is open to public inspection during regular business hours (8am-5pm) Monday through Friday.  

IX.  Availability of Annual Security Report Notice

The Annual Security Report will be made available on the University Police website at http://www.uttyler.edu/police/campsecact.htm  All campus community members will receive an email containing this direct link to the Annual Security Report.  This email will be disseminated in October of each year, as well as to new students at the beginning of the Spring semester.  In addition, paper copies of the Annual Security Report are available during regular business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:00 am- 5:00 pm) at the University Police Department located at 3410 Varsity Drive.

X.  Crime Statistics

Offense categories for 2006, 2007 and 2008. Crime statistics are provided in compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act.   Any questions should be directed to the University Police Department at 903-566-7060.