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IX. Preservation of Evidence

Individuals are strongly encouraged to preserve evidence to the greatest extent possible in cases of discrimination, harassment, and sexual misconduct. Preservation of evidence may assist with the investigation and may be necessary for proof of the crime or in obtaining a protection order, if applicable. Nonetheless, the University will investigate complaints of misconduct even in the absence of physical evidence.

General Suggestions

  • Do not alter, dispose of, or destroy any physical evidence.
  • If there is suspicion that a drink may have been drugged, inform a medical assistance provider, Campus Security and/or law enforcement as soon as possible so they can attempt to collect possible evidence (e.g., from the drink, through urine or blood sample).
  • Preserve evidence of electronic communications by saving them and/or by taking screen shots of text messages, instant messages, social networking pages, or other electronic communications, and by keeping pictures, logs, or copies of documents that relate to the incident and/or perpetrator.
  • Even if individuals choose not to make a complaint regarding sexual misconduct, they should nevertheless consider speaking with Campus Security or other law enforcement to preserve evidence in the event that they change their mind at a later date.

     

    Suggestions Specific to Sexual Assault/Rape

  • When physical violence of a sexual nature has been perpetrated against you, the University recommends that you immediately go to the emergency room of a local hospital, contact local law enforcement or campus security, and report the incident to the appropriate designated University officials set forth in this policy. If you are a student and need assistance or are uncomfortable contacting any of these entities or officials directly, please contact your resident assistant or resident director.
  • Because some evidence, particularly evidence that may be located on the body, dissipates quickly (within 48-96 hours), individuals who have been sexually assaulted and wish to preserve evidence should go to a local hospital immediately to seek a medical examination and/or evidence collection.
  • An individual who has been sexually assaulted should not shower, bathe, douche, smoke, brush teeth, eat, drink, or change clothes or bedding before going to the hospital or seeking medical attention. When seeking medical attention at a hospital, you should, if possible, take a full change of clothing, including shoes, for use after a medical examination.
  • If the individual who has been sexually assaulted decides to change clothes or bedding, they should not wash the clothes worn or bedding used during the assault, and should bring them to a hospital or the police in a non-plastic bag (e.g., paper bag).

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