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Police Department General Information
Overview / Annual Security Report / Monthly Stats / Crime Stats 2014 - 2016 / Emergency Evacuation

The Main Campus:
Regular Operating Hours:
- Switchboard Operator (0) 
- Campus Police Department (708) 709-7777
- Chicago Heights Police 911

After hours
11 p.m. - 9 a.m.

Matteson Area Center:
- Matteson Area Center
(708) 709-3750
- Campus Police Department
(708) 709-7777
- Matteson Police 911

OVERVIEW
PSC is a richly diverse community college dedicated to student-centered instruction that fosters success in adult, transfer, and workforce education. The PSC Police Department is concerned about the safety and well-being of all staff, faculty, students, and visitors. Crime prevention and awareness information is made available to educate our college community so that we may all act proactively in the prevention of campus crime. The PSC Police Department shall perform all duties in a professional manner with pride, integrity, and compassion and will serve all without prejudice and uphold the Constitutional Rights of people we encounter, as well as enforcing all laws of the State of Illinois and the United States of America.

Campus safety and security is coordinated by the Prairie State College Police Department. The department is located in Room 1100 of the main campus building. Satellite offices are also located in the Health Tech building and the Adult Training and Outreach Center of the College (ATOC).

The Department operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All full-time Police Department Officers have completed state approved training as provided by the Illinois Private Security Act of 1993. All police officers completed the training required by the State of Illinois.

MISSION
Prairie State College Police Department’s goal is to help create an exceptionally safe, secure campus for students and faculty to focus intently on excellent academics and public service. We encourage an inclusive, respectful environment and protect the free and civil exchange of ideas.

For more information about the department, contact Chief Anthony Martin at (708) 709-7834 or amartin@prairiestate.edu.

MONTHLY STATISTICS

Item 5/18 6/18 7/18 8/18 9/18 10/18 11/18 12/18 1/19 2/19 3/19 4/19
911 Calls 02 00 00 00 02 00 02 01 01 01 01 01
Assaults 00 02 00 01 00 00 01 00 00 00 00 01
Assist Other Agencies 01 00 00 03 00 00 01 00 01 00 00 01
Crash Reports 00 02 00 00 02 03 03 01 01 02 03 03
Disturbances 04 03 00 00 05 02 03 00 01 03 04 06
Fire Alarms 00 02 00 00 01 00 02 01 04 00 00 00
Lost/Found Property 01 04 00 02 06 05 08 01 02 03 03 05
Medical Aid 03 00 03 04 03 04 02 00 02 05 04 07
Motorist Assist 09 04 00 07 06 07 06 08 01 05 04 06
Open Doors (Faculty/Staff) 79 25 14 41 72 86 57 19 24 45 45 29
Open Doors Located After Hours                        
Panic Alarms 01 01 00 00 01 01 01 01 00 02 01 00
Parking Violations 25 04 04 08 02 34 07 03 08 34 06 07
Suspicious Circumstances 05 02 03 05 02 01 03 05 03 06 03 06
Thefts 00 00 02 00 01 01 00 00 00 02 01 00
Trespass Notices Issued 02 01 00 02 02 02 03 01 01 01 01 04
Vehicle Repossessions 00 00 00 02 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00
Warrant Arrests 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 01 00 00 01
Click on the image below to view the full Annual Security Report. 
2019 ASR cover



PRAIRIE STATE COLLEGE 2016 ANNUAL SECURITY REPORT
Preparing, Publishing and Distributing the Annual Security Report

Prairie State is committed to providing a safe learning and working environment for all. In order to comply with newly enacted federal laws, policies and procedures have been created and adopted to prevent and/or respond to incidents of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking involving members of our campus community. These policies apply to all students, faculty, staff, contractors and visitors.

Under the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act), Prairie State College must publicly report its security policies and statistics about crimes occurring on and around its campuses. Under the act, some employees are considered Campus Security Authorities (CSAs) who must report all applicable crimes to the Prairie State Police Department. CSAs include individuals associated with campus police department and other officials who have significant responsibility for student and campus activities; and individuals/units designated in PSC’s campus security policy as persons/units to which students and employees should report criminal offenses. If you are unsure about your reporting responsibilities or status as a CSA, you should contact the Prairie State College Police Department or the Human Resource Department.

Prospective students and employees are made aware of the ASR’s availability by notifications appearing on employment applications, admissions applications, and registration forms. The notification identifies the exact electronic address http://prairiestate.edu/student-life/police-and-campus-safety/statistics/index.aspx, a description of the contents of the ASR and advises of the individual’s right to request a paper copy of the ASR.  The notification also provides the office location in which to obtain a paper copy of the ASR. 

By October 1 an email notification is sent to all enrolled credit and non-credit students as well as all current employees providing information regarding the availability of the ASR. The notification identifies the exact electronic address, a description of the contents and an advisement that a paper copy will be provided upon request.  The ASR is located on the college website ( http://prairiestate.edu/student-life/police-and-campus-safety/statistics/index.aspx), in the PSC Police Department (Room 1103) and in the Human Resource Department (Room 2402).

The Annual Security Report will be prepared by the PSC Police Department, Chief of Police or designee in cooperation with local law enforcement agencies having primary jurisdiction adjacent to the Chicago Heights and Matteson Area Center campuses.   The Chief of Police will collaborate with college departments to ensure the timely preparation, publication and distribution of the ASR.

TIMELY WARNING
In the event there is a significant emergency, either on or off campus that in the judgment of the Chief of Police or designee, constitutes an ongoing or continuing threat, a campus wide "timely warning" will be issued.  The warning will be issued at a minimum, through the following methods

  • College Wide Emergency Notification System 
  • PSC employee and student emails accounts
  • PSC website prairiestate.edu

Depending on the particular circumstances of the crime, especially in situations that could pose an immediate threat to the community and individuals, PSC Police may also issue the "timely warning" and related safety information via the Public Address System at the main campus.

The MAC is not equipped with PA systems, but notification of occupants will be conducted by the on duty PSC Police.  

EMERGENCY RESPONSE AND EVACUATION PROCEDURE
It is the policy of Prairie State College to keep students, staff and the Prairie State community informed during those instances that represent a threat or a perceived threat to the campus.

When a serious incident occurs that causes an immediate threat to the campus, the first responders to the scene are usually the PSCPD. Depending on the nature of the incident, other emergency responders or federal agencies could also be involved in responding to the incident.

All members of the Prairie State College Community are notified on an annual basis that they are required to notify the Prairie state College Police Department (PSCPD) of any situation or incident on campus that involves a significant emergency or dangerous situation that may involve an immediate or ongoing threat to the health and safety of students and/or employees on campus.  PSCPD has the responsibility of responding to, and summoning the necessary resources, to mitigate, investigate, and document any situation that may cause a significant emergency or dangerous situation. In addition, the Prairie State College Police Department has a responsibility to respond to such incidents to determine if the situation does in fact, pose a threat to the community. If that is the case, Federal Law requires that the institution immediately notify the campus community or the appropriate segments of the community that may be affected by the situation.

During emergencies on the campus, the College Emergency Response Group will coordinate with the Police Department to formulate emergency direction and communications.

During emergencies the team will:

  • Via public address system, cell and text messages, email, campus sign boards, and college website home page give full information and direction to those students and staff that may be affected.
  • This information will be made immediately available to the entire college community as developments occur. The PSC Police Department will give regular updates, via the public address system, on evacuation information or other relevant emergency responses; unless the announcement would impact or jeopardize public safety or emergency operations; in those cases information will be made available as soon as possible.

In those instances where the community will be impacted, the College Emergency Response Group will formulate press releases, determine the content of the notification and initiate the notification system. The website home page will also be updated as needed.

There will be an annual testing of the emergency notification system and regular training for dispatch staff at the PSC Police Department.

Evacuations of buildings will be directed by the PSC Police Department as needed. Public address systems will be used to assist with building evacuations and informational updates during this process.

On November 1, 2017, at approximately 1123 hours an announced campus-wide evacuation exercise was conducted  and the exercise was completed successfully without incident.  

The College Emergency Response Group will is made up of the following members:

  • Director, Chief of Campus Police
  • Manager of Public Relations
  • Executive Director of Facilities and Operations

HOW TO REPORT A CRIME ACCURATELY AND PROMPTLY
Community members, students, faculty, staff, and guests are encouraged to report all crimes and public safety related incidents to the Prairie State College Police Department (PSCPD) in a timely manner. All incidents reported to PSCPD will be promptly and thoroughly investigated. Violators will be dealt with through the Student Code of Conduct, College Regulations and/or Criminal Prosecution.

The Dean of Students and counseling staff will inform their students of the procedures to report crime to the PSC Police on a voluntary basis, should they feel it is in the best interest of the student.

Crimes or safety related issues including medical emergencies at any PSC Campus, may be reported in person at the PSCPD located in Room 1103 on the Main Campus, to any PSC Police Officer on any campus or by utilizing the following contact numbers:

Non-Emergency Offenses
Contact PSC Police at (708) 709-7777

Emergency situations including medical emergencies:

  • utilize one of the many exterior blue light or interior direct connect emergency phones
  • dial 911 to reach local police or fire.  Call information will be relayed to PSCPD

In addition you may report a non-emergency crime to the following areas or numbers:

  1. Dean of Students  Room 1200 or  (708) 709-3518
  2. Counseling Room 1190  or (708) 709-3506
  3. Human Resources –Room  2402  or (708) 709-7884

The PSC Police Department is responsible for providing protective services and emergency response for the college campus. The department encourages the prompt reporting of all crimes or suspicious activities by the college community.

Complainants (victims) will be assisted by PSC Police to report a crime. Additional agencies that may be utilized are: the Chicago Heights Police Department, FBIIllinois State Police, and Cook County Sheriff's Police.

Reporting an incident is a separate step from choosing to prosecute. When a report is filed there is no obligation to continue with legal proceedings or college disciplinary action. The victim/ complainant can choose whether or not to participate in proceedings at any point.

The Main Campus:
During regular operating hours:
Switchboard Operator 0
Police Department 7777
Chicago Heights Police 911 (using an on-campus phone)
After hours (9 p.m. - 7 a.m.)
Police Department (708) 709-7777
Chicago Heights Police 911

Campus courtesy telephones are located near the main elevator on each floor of the main building and strategic locations throughout the building. Courtesy telephones are also located at the northwest entrance in the Technical Center and the Conference Center Rotunda.

Download Call Box locations map.

Matteson Area Center:
Matteson Area Center (708) 709-3750
Police Department (708) 709-7777
Matteson Police 911

HOURS OF OPERATION
Main Building
: Monday-Friday, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., closed and locked secure by 10 p.m.

K - Building: Monday-Friday, open and closed as requested for functions; closed and locked secure by 10 p.m.

ATOC Building: Monday-Friday, opened 7 a.m. and locked at the conclusion of classes on scheduled days.

Health/Tech Building: Monday-Friday, opened 7 a.m. and locked at the conclusion of classes on scheduled days.

All buildings: Sundays, Holidays, and break periods, closed and locked secure with no access for students.

Exceptions to the above may be authorized in advance of the scheduled function and with proper approval.

REPORT AN ON-CAMPUS CRIME OR EMERGENCY
This should be done immediately. The reasons for reporting to the PSCPD are:

  1. to take action which may prevent further victimization, including issuing a crime alert to warn the campus community of an impending threat to their safety
  2. to apprehend the assailant
  3. to seek justice for the wrong that has been done to you, and
  4. to have the incident recorded for purposes of reporting statistics about incidents that occurred on campus.

If you choose to report the incident, a PSC police officer will take a statement from you regarding what happened. The officer will ask you to describe the assailant(s) and may ask questions about the scene of the crime, any witnesses, and what happened before and after the incident. You may have a support person with you during this interview.

CONFIDENTIAL REPORTING OF CRIMES (LIMITED)
PSC does not specifically allow for confidential reporting of crimes, however, there are reporting methods that will minimize and in some cases eliminate the possibility that your information might become public. If you are the victim of a crime and do not want to pursue action through the criminal justice system, you may still want to consider one of the following reporting options: PSC community members wishing to remain anonymous, may report information about criminal acts or suspicious activities on campus, by being a silent witness and sending an email message to the PSC Police Department. The anonymity of the sender and the information provided will be held in the strictest confidence. The PSC Police Department then will initiate the appropriate investigation or action.

Report to PSC Police, Dean of Students or Counseling to make a report. In these cases, your report will remain confidential within the college system to the extent permitted by law. These reports will allow PSC to help insure your safety and the safety of other students or staff based on the information you provide. With such information, the college can keep an accurate record of the number of incidents involving students, determine where there is a pattern of crime with regard to particular locations, methods, or assailants, and alert the campus community to potential danger. Reports filed in this manner are counted and disclosed in the annual crimes statistics for the institution.

CAMPUS SECURITY AND ACCESS
Campus buildings and facilities are open to the public during normal college business hours. Business hours vary per campus but in general are Monday – Friday 6 a.m. – 10 p.m. with varying hours on weekends. For all Board of Trustee designated holidays, all campuses will be closed as well as on Friday – Sunday during the summer months when summer hours are in effect. During any closing, access to main campus only, will be limited to pre-approved individuals or emergency entry which will be gained by contacting PSCPD by calling (708) 709-7777.

Main campus is staffed by PSC Police 24/7. Other campuses are patrolled intermittently by PSCPD as well as by local police agencies. Approximately 105 security cameras, both internal and external, are located at all campuses.

PSC CAMPUS POLICE AUTHORITY
Members of the PSC Police Department are law enforcement officers, as defined in the Illinois Police Training Act, shall be peace officers under the laws of this State. As such, law enforcement officer members of PSCPD shall have all of the powers of police officers in cities and sheriffs in counties, including the power to make arrests on view or on warrants for violations of state statutes and to enforce county or city ordinances in all counties that lie within the community college district, when such is required for the protection of college personnel, students, property, or interests. Such officers shall have no power to serve and execute civil process.

PSCPD also have the authority to utilize the Student Code of Conduct or College Regulations in lieu of or in addition to, the criminal process, to resolve legal or college policy violations. The prosecution of all criminal offenses, both felony and misdemeanor, are conducted in the Circuit Court of Cook County.

PSCPD work closely with local, state, and federal police agencies and have officers assigned to the South Suburban Emergency Response Team (SSERT). Additionally through an informal agreement with Chicago Heights Police Department, PSCPD handle all police response and patrol of the parking area at the Franciscan Fitness Center. This complex is located adjacent to the Health Tech Building and is one third owned by the college.

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU) STATEMENT
The PSC Police Department does not have any formal MOUs with surrounding police agencies for day to day operations. However PSCPD does have an Intergovernmental Cooperation Agreement in part to utilize the Chicago Heights Police Department lock up facility. An excellent working relationship is maintained with the Chicago Heights Police Department whose jurisdiction PSC campus lies within.

SECURITY AWARENESS, CRIME PREVENTION AND SAFETY PROGRAM
PSCPD utilizes a number of methods to make students and staff aware of the various safety issues and concerns that exist on PSC campus, and in their day to day routine both on and off campus.  PSCPD also offers various training sessions on how to avoid victimization.  Below is a list of some of the programs and presentations utilized to achieve those goals.

Orientation Safety Presentations are made each semester by PSCPD and the Dean of Students or information provided at New Student Orientation and New Faculty Orientation;

PSC Police Book: Each year an updated Police Book is printed and distributed throughout campus as well as being posted in PDF format on the PSC police website page.  This booklet contains the annual Clery ASR along with additional safety information.

Safety Presentations: Safety presentations by PSCPD are made to various employee and student groups such as department meetings, union meetings, Student Government Association, and College Council, upon request.  These include Active Shooter Response as well as more routine safety discussions.

Evacuation, Shelter Map and Emergency Procedure booklets are posted in all classrooms, office areas and in various public locations.

PSCPD conducts female Self Defense classes on campus throughout the year.

Drills: Annual fire and tornado drills are conducted on PSC campuses. Additionally Active Shooter Drills are conducted annually for faculty, staff and some students. Table top and full scale drills are also conducted annually with the College Emergency Response Resource Group per the College Emergency Operations Plan.

PSC Handbook: Each year an updated Police Book is printed and distributed throughout campus as well as being posted in PDF format on the PSC police website page. This booklet contains the annual Clery ASR along with additional safety information.    

Evacuation and Shelter Maps are posted in all classrooms, office areas and in various public locations.

Emergency Call Boxes: Ten emergency call boxes are located in the parking lots of the main campus and in the north campus complex. The Emergency Call Boxes are activated by pushing the button. Each call box is individually identified to its location when activated and will put you in immediate contact with a campus safety officer to assist you.

Mobility Impaired Persons: The PSCPD has enhanced its emergency evacuation capability for Mobility Impaired Persons by installing the Garaventa Evacu-Trac CD7 evacuation device. These devices are encased in metal cabinets and marked "Emergency Evacuation Device". They are located on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th floors at the southeast and northeast tower stairwell entrances. An additional device is located on the 2nd floor in the northwest stairwell entrance.

Escort Program: The PSC Police Department offers a free escort service providing assistance to students, faculty, and staff, as well as visitors to the campus.

Vehicle Assistance: Vehicle assistance - including jump starts, lockouts and motorist emergency notifications, is available to persons that are properly registered and display the required PSC parking permit/sticker.

PSC Emergency Panic System provides individual panic buttons for staff who work in areas where they feel isolated or where they could become involved in confrontational situations. Upon activation these buttons send a prerecorded message to all PSC Police radios as well as to Police Dispatch. Currently this system is available on the main campus.

PSC Camera System consists of approximately 105 cameras located throughout the main campus and the MAC.

Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs): AEDs are distributed strategically throughout the main campus and the MAC. Training is provided periodically to staff members on AED use and First Aid.

ALCOHOL, DRUGS, WEAPONS
The college has the obligation to uphold federal, state, and local laws regarding the possession, use and sale of alcoholic beverages and illegal drugs. The college will cooperate with legal authorities in the investigation of the illegal use, sale or distribution of alcohol and /or drugs.

Alcohol: The state of Illinois requires that persons be 21 years of age or older to purchase, possess, or consume alcoholic beverages, including wine and beer. Violators are subject to arrest. In addition, the college prohibits the possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages by any student, regardless of age, in any area of the college. Violators are subject to official college disciplinary regulations.

Drugs: The college prohibits the possession, use or distribution of any controlled substance by anyone, in any area of the campus. Any individual possessing, using or distributing such drugs is subject to arrest, imprisonment or fine according to the applicable laws, as well as official college disciplinary regulations.

Weapons: The illegal possession, use or sale of firearms, ammunition, fireworks, major or minor explosives, or any lethal weapon is forbidden and subject to criminal sanctions as well as official disciplinary regulations.

CONDUCT
The PSC Police Department aims to create a positive atmosphere focused on learning and free of as many distractions as possible. We ask the community to help by adhering to the PSC Board of Trustees policies and respecting the rights of each person visiting or working at Prairie State College.

SUBSTANCE ABUSE EDUCATION SERVICES
PSC has various programs developed to educate students and staff regarding the impact of substance abuse and to assist those seeking help with substance abuse issues. Some of the programs are listed below:

Holistic Wellness sponsors Alcohol and Drug Awareness Week every October.  Throughout the week, sessions are conducted on Alcohol Education, Prevention and Addiction, Drunk Driving etc.

Wellness Fair is conducted every April. This fair consists of multiple informational booths on a wide variety of health related issues including, alcohol and drug abuse, prevention and recovery resources.

Domestic Violence Awareness Week is conducted every October.  During this week various sessions are held including educational sessions showing the link between domestic violence and drug/alcohol usage.

Drug and Alcohol Abuse Services are available to employees through the PSC Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and to students through the PSC Counseling Department.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT BOARD POLICY C-9
Prairie State College shall support and protect the right of all employees and students to work and learn in an environment free from unsolicited an unwelcome sexual overtures. Sexual harassment is, therefore, unacceptable conduct for College employees and students and is subject to sanctions and disciplinary actions up to and including dismissal or expulsion. Sexual

Harassment is illegal under state and federal law. Both victims and third parties should contact the Manager of Compliance and Effectiveness to report incidents of sexual discrimination, sexual harassment or sexual violence. For more information visit prairiestate.edu

DEFINITIONS OF SEXUAL ASSAULT, DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, DATING VIOLENCE, AND STALKING
Sexual assault is any sexual act directed against another person, forcibly and/or against that person’s will; or not forcibly or against the person’s will where the victim is incapable of giving consent, as well as incest or statutory rape.

Domestic violence includes felony or misdemeanor crimes of violence committed by a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the victim.

Dating violence means violence committed by a person who is or has been in a romantic or intimate relationship with the victim.

Stalking is engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to fear for their safety or the safety of others or suffer substantial emotional distress.

REPORTING AN INCIDENT
If a student, employee or visitor has been the victim of a sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking on the campus, they should immediately notify the Prairie State Police at (708)709-7777 and an officer will be dispatched to meet with you. If you are in immediate danger, get to a safe location and wait for an officer to arrive. If off campus within Chicago Heights or Matteson, notify the responsible local law enforcement agency by calling 911. Students and staff may also report the incident to the following staff in Office of Student Services or Compliance and Effectiveness:

Tiffany Brewer, Title IX Coordinator
(708) 709-3653 | tbrewer1@prairiestate.edu

Shannon Word, Personal Counselor
(708) 709 3511 | sword@prairiestate.edu

These offices will assist a victim of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking in notifying law enforcement, (Prairie State of local police), if they elect to do so. Victims are not required to report to law enforcement in order to receive assistance from or pursue any options with the Prairie State.

WRITTEN NOTIFICATION OF RIGHTS AND OPTIONS
Any student or employee who reports an incident of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking, whether the incident occurred on or off campus, shall receive a written explanation of their options and rights as provided for under this policy.

PROCEDURES VICTIMS SHOULD FOLLOW
If an incident of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking occurs, it is important to preserve evidence so that a successful criminal prosecution remains an option.

A student who is a victim of a sexual assault has the option of seeking treatment at St. James Hospital in Chicago Heights Illinois 708-756-1000, South Suburban in Hazel Crest 708-799-7000.  If the victim wishes to access resources after normal business hours, contact Prairie State Police at 708-709-7777 and an officer will provide the necessary assistance.   

Note: South Suburban Hospital employs certified sexual assault nurse examiners (SANE) who are specially trained to deal with the physical and emotional needs of sexual assault victims. The SANE nurse will collect all evidence and as required by law and will provide it to the Prairie State Police. The victim will determine if there is to be a prosecution but by collecting the evidence and storing it within the police department, the chain of evidence is preserved. This provides the victim the option to prosecute now or at a later date without fear of losing the evidence needed in court. This applies to assaults that occur on or off campus.

Staff and visitors who are victims of sexual assault will receive the same treatment and support as mentioned above.   

When possible, a victim should not bathe, douche, use the toilet, or change clothing prior to a medical exam – which is important both to address any health issues that may arise and for evidence collection.

Evidence of violence, such as bruising or other visible injuries, following an incident of domestic or dating violence should be documented by taking a photograph. On Campus this will be handled by the Prairie State Police or health professionals. If the event occurred off campus, the local police agency will handle the documentation. Evidence of stalking including any communication, such as written notes, voice mail or other electronic communications should be saved and not altered in any way. Provide this to the law enforcement officer who responds to your call.

Continued guidelines for assistance if you are raped or sexually assaulted:

  • Get to a safe place as soon as you can.
  • Try to preserve all the physical evidence. Do not wash, use the toilet, or change clothing if you can avoid it. If you do change clothes, put all clothing you were wearing at the time of the attack in a paper, not plastic, bag.
  • Get medical attention as soon as possible to make sure you are physically well and to collect important evidence in the event you may later wish to take legal action.
  • Contact PSC Police Department at extension 7777 or the Chicago Heights Police using 911 immediately.
  • Talk with a counselor who will maintain confidentiality, help explain your options, give you information, and provide emotional support.
  • Contact someone you trust to be with you and support you.

Medical Treatment
It is important to seek immediate and follow-up medical attention for several reasons:

  1. To assess and treat the physical injuries you may have sustained;
  2. To determine the risk of sexually transmitted diseases or pregnancy and take necessary preventive measures;
  3. To gather evidence that could aid in criminal prosecution. Physical evidence should be collected immediately, ideally within the first 24 hours. It may be collected later than this, but the quality and quantity of the evidence may be diminished.

ON AND OFF CAMPUS RESOURCES
Prairie State College, Chicago Heights and Matteson communities offer other important resources to the victims of sexual violence which may including medical treatment, counseling and advocacy they may wish to utilize. The PSC Title IX Coordinator (Manager, Compliance and Effectiveness) (708) 709-3653 is available to assist any student or employee free of charge and will help them consider their options and navigate through any resources or recourse they elect to pursue.  A victim need not make a formal report to law enforcement to access these resources that include the following.

  • Prairie State Counseling Center (708)709-3506
  • Chicago Heights Police Department (708)756-6400
  • The CARE Center (708)788-6759
  • Chicago Rape Crisis Hotline (888)293-2080
  • South Suburban YWCA (708)748-5672

Whether or not a student or employee reports to law enforcement and/or pursues any formal action, if they report an incident of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking Prairie State College is committed to providing a safe learning and/or working environment as possible. Upon request, the Prairie State will make any reasonable, available change to a victim’s academic and/or working situation. Students may contact Student Services (708)709-3506 for assistance, and employees may contact the Title IX Coordinator (708) 709-3653 for assistance.

If a victim reports the incident to the Prairie State Police, they will assist them in obtaining a temporary protective order through the circuit court.  Prairie State is committed to ensuring that any such order is fully upheld on all institutionally owned and controlled property. Prairie State College is also committed to protecting victims from any further harm.

VICTIM CONFIDENTIALITY
Prairie State recognizes the often-sensitive nature of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking incidents. We are committed to protecting the privacy of any individual who makes a report. Different officials and personnel are, however, able to offer varying levels of privacy protection to victims. Reports made to law enforcement, including if criminal prosecution is pursued, may be made public though by law, the victim’s name cannot be released to the press. However, if a criminal prosecution is initiated, the victim’s name, the accusation, including witnesses must be shared with the accused.

Reports made to Prairie State officials will be kept confidential, and identifying information about the victim shall not be made public.  However, general information about the crime may be distributed as a timely warning if it meets the criteria required by the Clery Act. Victim’s name and other personal information is never part of a timely warning.  Information about the crime and victim will only be shared with institutional personnel as needed to investigate and effectively respond to the report. Every effort will be made to limit the scope of information shared to keep it to a minimum of detail, and only when absolutely necessary. Reports made to medical professionals, licensed mental health counselors, pastoral counselors if available, and will not be shared with any third parties except in cases of imminent danger to the victim or a third party.

HEARING RESULTS AVAILABLE TO VICTIMS OF VIOLENCE AND SEX OFFENSES
College Disciplinary Action

If you have been sexually assaulted by another student or students and are considering taking action through the college, you are encouraged to discuss the matter with the Dean of Student Development and Campus Life or his designee. This will allow you a chance to review the procedures should you decide to file a formal complaint through the college’s disciplinary/judicial system. This discussion does not obligate you to pursue official action. If you decide to take part in the college adjudication process, you should contact the Dean of Student Development and campus life and Judicial Affairs. Charges may either be filed directly by you or by the college on the basis of your written statement. Such a charge would be handled in accordance with the procedures relating to violations of the college’s Student Code of Conduct regulations. Assailants could be subject to disciplinary action pending review by the college judicial system. Those students found responsible for violating the code in this way could be suspended or expelled. Under the college’s disciplinary procedures, both the accuser and the accused are entitled to have an advisor or support person present during the hearing. Students who allege sexual assault by another student may request a change in their academic situation on campus after the alleged incident takes place if such changes are reasonably available. Finally, in accordance with federal regulations, both the accuser and the accused will be informed of the outcome of any campus disciplinary proceedings alleging sexual assault. ,/p>

Education Programs
Prairie State College is committed to increasing the awareness of and prevention of all forms of violence. All incoming students and new employees are provided with programming and strategies intended to prevent rape, acquaintance rape, other forms of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking before it occurs through the changing of social norms and other approaches; that includes a clear statement that the Prairie State of Prairie State prohibits such acts, their definitions, the definition of consent, options for bystander intervention, information about risk reduction, and our policies and procedures for responding to these incidents. Ongoing prevention and awareness campaigns are also offered throughout the year. These programs include new employee orientation and self-defense for women – taught by the Prairie State Police.

Prairie State College strictly prohibits all acts of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking. Incidents involving accused students will be handled by the Dean of Student Development and Campus Life and incidents involving accused employees/affiliates will be handled by the Title IX coordinator located in the Compliance and Effectiveness Office. In addition to facing criminal investigation and prosecution, students and employees may also face disciplinary action by the Prairie State. Students found responsible for having committed such a violation may face probation, suspension or permanent expulsion from Prairie State College, or other penalties as dictated by the Student Code of Conduct. The responsible student may also be ordered to have no contact with the victim and pay appropriate restitution for any loss or cost to the victim.

Staff and faculty members found responsible may face probation, suspension, or termination of employment. Vendors can be expelled from campus and prohibited from bidding on future work. Any student, staff or vendor expelled from the campus will also be criminal trespassed from the campus.

All conduct proceedings, whether the conduct is reported to have occurred on or off-campus shall provide a prompt, fair and impartial investigation and resolution. All investigations and proceedings shall be conducted by officials who have received annual training on the nature of the types of cases they are handling and how to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation.  The investigation and proceedings will be conducted in a manner that protects the safety of victims and promotes accountability. Investigations shall be conducted within 60 days unless there are mitigating circumstances in which case the accuser and accused shall be notified, provided an explanation for the delay, and the amount of additional time required.

Determinations shall be made within seven business days unless there are mitigating circumstances in which case the accuser and accused shall be notified, provided an explanation for the delay, and the amount of additional time required.  Determination of responsibility shall be made by using the preponderance of the evidence standard (which means that it is more likely than not that the alleged misconduct occurred).In all proceedings, including any related meetings or hearings, both the accused and accuser are entitled to the same opportunities to have others present. This includes the right to be accompanied by an advisor of their choice.

Both the accused and accuser shall simultaneously be informed in writing of the outcome of the proceeding, of procedures and time-frame for appealing results of the outcome, of any change to the results that occurs prior to the time that the decision become final, and when such results become final. Disclosure of the outcome shall be made to both parties unconditionally, and each shall be free to share or not share the details with any third parties. For additional information about student conduct proceedings please consult the PSC student handbook available at http://prairiestate.edu/assets/global/security/CrimeAwareness.pdf

SEXUAL OFFENDER REGISTRATION
The Illinois Sex Offender Registration Act - 730 ILCS 150/3, requires that any student or employee who is required by law to register as a sex offender must also register with the PSC Police Department. PSCPD maintains a Sex Offender Registration Log listing all employees or students who have registered as sex offenders. PSCPD also crosschecks Illinois sex offenders who have indicated to their local registering agency, that they are either employed at or attend PSC, to assure that they have complied with registration requirements here at the College. This log is available for viewing in person at the PSCPD located in Room 1103 on main campus upon request and with proper identification.

The Illinois Sex Offender Registry can be viewed at http://www.isp.state.il.us/sor/.

THE FOLLOWING UCR CATEGORIES WILL BE SEARCHED FOR OBTAINING CLERY ACT STATISTICS FOR THE ASR

Murder

UCR Code Description
0110   First Degree Murder
0120  Voluntary Manslaughter of Unborn
0130  Second Degree Murder
0141  Involuntary Manslaughter
0165 Involuntary Manslaughter of Unborn

Sex Offenses: Forcible & Non-Forcible

UCR Code Description
1562    Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse
1563  Criminal Sexual Abuse
1585   All Other Sex Offenses
0260    Criminal Sexual Assault
0261    Aggravated Criminal Sexual Assault
0280    Predatory Sexual Assault / child
0281   Criminal Sexual Assault with/object

Robbery:  Taking of something, presence of a victim, threat of fear, armed or not armed

UCR Code Description
0310 Armed Robbery
0320 Robbery
0330 Aggravated Robbery

Aggravated Assault/Battery

UCR Code Description
0510 Aggravated Assault
0560 Assault
0410 Aggravated Battery
0460 Battery
0475 Battery of Unborn Child
0480 Heinous Battery
0485 Aggravated Battery of a Child
0486 Domestic Battery
0487 Aggravated Battery of an Unborn Child
0495 Aggravated Battery of a  Senior Citizen

Burglary: (do not include auto locked or unlocked, or from machines either)

UCR Code Description
0610 Burglary
0625 Residential Burglary

Motor Vehicle Theft

UCR Code Description
0910 Motor Vehicle Theft

Arson

UCR Code Description
1010 Arson
1025 Aggravated Arson

Hate Crimes

UCR Code Description
3965 Hate Crime
9735  Initiation/ Participation of a hate crime/ incidence of bias

Weapons

UCR Code Description
1380 Unlawful Storage of Weapons
1410 Unlawful Use of Weapon
1435 Unlawful Possession of firearm
9723 Illegal / Unauthorized Possession of Weapons

Drug Abuse

UCR Code Description
1910 Possession of methamphetamine
1811 Possession of Cannabis 30 grams and Under
1812 Possession of Cannabis over 30 grams
2020 Possession of controlled substance
2050 Criminal Drug Conspiracy
2040 Delivery or possession w/intent to distribute
2160 Sale/Delivery of Drug paraphernalia
2170 Possession of Drug Equipment
2220 Illegal possession by a minor
2420 Driving Under the influence – drug
9404 Suicide / Drugs
9721 Use of Possession of controlled substance
9953 Drug Paraphernalia
9909 Minor in possession of alcohol

Drug Arrests:  (based off the above UCR’s used for Drug Abuse)

Liquor Law Violations

UCR Code Description
2210 Sales of Liquor to minor / drunkard
2410 Driving Under the Influence - Alcohol
2430 Illegal Transportation
9909 Minor in possession of alcohol
9722 Use / possession / distribution of alcohol

CRIME DEFINITIONS

  1. Murder and Non-negligent Manslaughter: The willful (non- negligent) killing of one human being by another.
  2. Negligent Manslaughter: The killing of another person through gross negligence.
  3. Forcible 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.
    1. Forcible Rape: The penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any bodypart or object or oral penetration by a sex organ of another person, without the consent ofthe victim. NOTE: This definition encompasses acts of sodomy and sexual assault with anobject.
    2. Forcible Sodomy: Oral or anal sexual intercourse with another person, forcibly and/oragainst that person’s will; or not forcibly or against the person’s will where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his/her youth or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.
    3. Sexual Assault with an Object: The use of an object or instrument to unlawfully penetrate, however slightly, the genital or anal opening of the body of another person, forcibly and/or against that person’s will; or not forcibly or against the person’s will where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his/her youth or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.
    4. Forcible 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. Non-Forcible Sex Offenses: Unlawful, non-forcible sexual intercourse.
    5. Incest: Non-forcible sexual intercourse between persons who are related to each other within the degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by law.
    6. Statutory Rape: Non-forcible sexual intercourse with a person who is under the statutory age of consent.
  4. Robbery: The taking or attempting to take anything of value from the care, custody or control of a person or persons by force or threat of force, violence and/or causing the victim fear.
  5. Aggravated Assault: An unlawful attack by one person upon another for the purpose of inflicting severe or aggravated bodily injury. This type of assault usually is accompanied by the use of a weapon or by means likely to produce death or great bodily harm. It is not necessary that injury result from an aggravated assault when a gun, knife or other weapon is used which could or probably would result in a serious potential injury if the crime were successfully completed.
  6. Burglary: The unlawful entry of a structure to commit a felony or a theft. For reporting purposes this definition includes: unlawful entry with intent to commit a larceny or a felony, breaking and entering with intent to commit a larceny, housebreaking, safecracking and all attempts to commit any of the aforementioned.
  7. Motor Vehicle Theft: The theft or attempted theft of a motor vehicle. (Classify as motor vehicle theft all cases where automobiles are taken by persons not having lawful access even though the vehicles are later abandoned, including joy riding.)
  8. Arson: Any willful or malicious burning or attempt to burn, with or without intent to defraud, a dwelling, house, public building, motor vehicle or aircraft, personal property, etc.
  9. Liquor Law Violations: The violation of laws or ordinances prohibiting: the manufacture, sale, transporting, furnishing, possessing of intoxicating liquor; maintaining unlawful drinking places; bootlegging; operating a still; furnishing liquor to a minor or intemperate person; using a vehicle for illegal transportation of liquor; drinking on a train or public conveyance; all attempts to commit any of the aforementioned. (Drunkenness and driving under the influence are not included in this definition.)
  10. Drug Abuse Violations: Violations of state and local laws relating to the unlawful possession, sale, use, growing, manufacturing and making of narcotic drugs. The relevant substances include: opium or cocaine and their derivatives (morphine, heroin, codeine), marijuana, synthetic narcotics (Demerol, methadone) and dangerous non-narcotic drugs (barbiturates, Benzedrine).
  11. Illegal Weapons Law Possession: The violation of laws or ordinances dealing with weapon offenses, regulatory in nature, such as: manufacture, sale, or possession of deadly weapons; carrying deadly weapons, concealed or openly; furnishing deadly weapons to minors; aliens possessing deadly weapons; all attempts to commit any of the aforementioned.
  12. 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 purposes of this definition
  • Dating violence includes, but is not limited to, sexual or physical abuse or threat of  such abuse.
  • Dating violence does not include acts covered under the definition of domestic  violence.
For purposes of complying with the requirements of this section, any incident meeting this definition is considered a crime for the purposes of Cleary Act reporting.

Domestic Violence:

  • A felony or misdemeanor crime of violence committed:
  • By a current or former spouse or intimate partner of 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  a partner
  • By a person similarly situated to a spouse of the victim under the domestic violence  laws of the jurisdiction in which the crime of violence occurred, or
  • By any other person against an adult or youth victim who is protected from that  person’s acts under domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction in which the  crime of violence occurred.

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; or Stalking (contd.)
  • Suffer substantial emotional distress
For 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.

 Substantial emotional distress means significant mental suffering or anguish that may,  but does not necessarily, require medical or other professional treatment or counseling.

Reasonable person means a reasonable under similar circumstances and with similar  identities to the victim.

Bystander intervention means safe and positive options that may be carried out by an individual or individuals to prevent harm or intervene when there is a risk of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking.  Bystander intervention includes, recognizing situations of potential harm, understanding institutional structures and cultural conditions that facilitate violence, overcoming barriers to intervening, identifying safe and effective intervention options, and taking action to intervene.

HATE CRIME DEFINITIONS
Hate Crimes: A criminal offense committed against a person or property which is motivated, in whole or part, by the offender’s bias. Bias is a preformed negative opinion or attitude toward a group of persons based on their race, gender, gender identity, religion, disability, sexual orientation or ethnicity/national origin.

Prairie State College is required to report statistics for bias-related (hate) crimes by the type of bias as defined below for the following classifications: murder/non-negligent manslaughter, sex offenses (forcible and non-forcible), robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, motor vehicle theft, arson, larceny-theft, simple assault, intimidation and destruction/damage/vandalism of property.

Larceny-Theft: The unlawful taking, carrying, leading or riding away of property from the possession or constructive possession of another. Constructive possession is the condition in which a person does not have physical custody or possession, but is in a position to exercise dominion or control over a thing.

Simple Assault: An unlawful physical attack by one person upon another where neither the offender displays a weapon, nor the victim suffers obvious severe or aggravated bodily injury involving apparent broken bones, loss of teeth, possible internal injury, severe laceration or loss of consciousness.

Intimidation: To unlawfully place another person in reasonable fear of bodily harm through the use of threatening words and/or other conduct, but without displaying a weapon or subjecting the victim to actual physical attack.

Destruction/Damage/Vandalism of Property: To willfully or maliciously destroy, damage, deface or otherwise injure real or personal property without the consent of the owner or the person having custody or control of it.

If a hate crime occurs where there is an incident involving intimidation, destruction/damage/vandalism of property, larceny-theft or simple assault, the law requires that the statistic be reported as a hate crime even though there is no requirement to report the crime classification in any of the Clery Crime Definitions.

Criminal Homicide

  1. Murder and Non-Negligent Manslaughter: The willful (non-negligent) killing of one human being by another. NOTE: Deaths caused by negligence, attempts to kill, assaults to kill, suicides, accidental deaths, and justifiable homicides are excluded.
  2. Negligent Manslaughter: The killing of another person through gross negligence. 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.
NOTE REGARDING DATE RAPE DRUGS
Under the Clery Act, the administration of a date rape drug in an unsuccessful attempt to incapacitate and sexually assault the victim, and investigation determines that the perpetrator’s attempt was to commit a sex offense, is a sexual assault.

Administration of a date rape drug in which intent cannot be proven is an Aggravated Assault.

  1. Rape: The penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any body part or object, or oral penetration by a sex organ of another person, without the consent of the victim. NOTE: This definition encompasses acts of sodomy and sexual assault with an object.
  2. Fondling: The touching of the private body parts of another person for the purpose of sexual gratification, forcibly and/or against that person’s will; or, not forcibly or against the person’s will where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his/her youth or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.
  3. Statutory Rape: The non-forcible sexual intercourse with a person who is under the age of consent. For the State of Illinois the age of consent is 17 years. Illinois allows 0 years age difference between two participating persons to whom the section applies.
  4. Incest: The non-forcible sexual intercourse between persons who are related to each other within the degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by law.
  5. Robbery: The taking or attempting to take anything of value from the care, custody, or control of a person or persons by force or threat of force or violence and/or by putting the victim in fear.
  6. Aggravated Assault: The unlawful attack by one person upon another for the purpose of inflicting severe or aggravated bodily injury. This type of assault usually is accompanied by the use of a weapon or by means likely to produce death or great bodily harm. It is not necessary that injury result from an aggravated assault when a gun, knife, or other weapon is used which could or probably would result in a serious potential injury if the crime were successfully completed. Aggravated assault includes poisoning (date rape drug, etc.)
  7. Burglary: The unlawful entry of a structure to commit a felony or a theft. For reporting purposes this definition includes: unlawful entry with intent to commit a larceny or a felony; breaking and entering with intent to commit a larceny; housebreaking; safecracking; and all attempts to commit any of the aforementioned. Motor Vehicle Theft: The theft or attempted theft of a motor vehicle.(Classify as motor vehicle theft all cases where automobiles are taken by persons not having lawful access, even though the vehicles are later abandoned – including joy riding).
  8. Arson: Any willful or malicious burning or attempt to burn, with or without intent to defraud, a dwelling, house, public building, motor vehicle or aircraft, personal property of another, etc.
  9. Hate Crimes: A hate crime is a criminal offense committed against a person or property which is motivated in whole or in part, by the offender’s bias. Bias is a preformed negative opinion or attitude toward a group of persons based on their race, gender, religion, disability, sexual orientation, ethnicity/national origin, or gender identity.
    1. Race: A preformed negative attitude toward a group of persons who possess common physical characteristics (e.g., color of skin, eyes, and/or hair; facial features, etc.) genetically transmitted by descent and heredity, which distinguish them as a distinct division of humankind (e.g., Asians, blacks, whites).
    2. Gender: A preformed negative opinion or attitude toward a group of persons because those persons are male or female.
    3. Religion: A preformed negative opinion or attitude toward a group of persons who share the same religious beliefs regarding the origin and purpose of the universe and the existence or nonexistence of a supreme being (e.g., Catholics, Jews, Protestants, atheists).
    4. Disability: A preformed negative opinion or attitude toward a group of persons based on their physical or mental impairments/challenges, whether such disability is temporary or permanent, congenital or acquired by heredity, accident, injury, advanced age or illness.
    5. Sexual Orientation: A preformed negative opinion or attitude toward a group of persons based on their sexual attraction toward, and responsiveness to, members of their own sex or members of the opposite sex (e.g., gays, lesbians, heterosexuals).
    6. Ethnicity: A preformed negative opinion or attitude toward a group of people whose members identify with each other, through a common heritage, often consisting of a common language, common culture (often including a shared religion) and/or ideology that stresses common ancestry. The concept of ethnicity differs from the closely related term race in that “race” refers to grouping based mostly upon biological criteria, while “ethnicity” also encompasses additional cultural factors. National Origin: A preformed negative opinion or attitude toward a group of persons of the same race or national origin who share common or similar traits, languages, customs and traditions (e.g., Arabs, Hispanics).
    7. Gender Identity: A preformed negative opinion or attitude toward a person or group of persons based on their actual or perceived gender identity (e.g., transgender or gender non-conforming individuals). For the purposes of the Clery Act, hate crimes include any offense in the following group that is motivated by bias.

FBI UCR General and Hate Crimes include

  • Murder and Non-negligent manslaughter
  • Forcible sex offenses
  • Non-forcible sex offenses
  • Robbery
  • Aggravated assault
  • Burglary
  • Motor vehicle theft
  • Arson
  • Larceny/Theft
  • Simple Assault
  • Intimidation
  • Destruction/Damage/Vandalism of Property area of the compliance document.

EMERGENCY EVACUATION
Evacuation drills are a key element of the Prairie State College Emergency Operations Plan. Planning, training, and drills are the best insurance for protecting everyone on campus, and your safety is one of our highest priorities.

Emergency Evacuation Areas  (for assistance with evacuation)
Emergency Evacuation Areas are located in the north/east and south/east towers of the second, third, and fourth floors, and are marked with signs reading, "Emergency Evacuation Area." In the event of an emergency, each Emergency Evacuation Area is equipped with Emergency Evacuation Devices to assist students, faculty, or staff members with mobility concerns.

People with Mobility Issues
In the event of a fire or other unforeseen emergency, it is imperative to have evacuation information in place for assisting people in wheelchairs or with mobility issues. In view of this, please read the following information carefully.

The College owns six EvacuChairs, two for each floor of the main building. These specially-equipped chairs transport people across flat ground or maneuver down any stairway and are easy to use. Each chair is concealed in a beige metal cabinet, located next to a stairway in the following places:

  • 2nd Floor
    NE side - near Room 2150
    SE side - near Room 2106
  • 3rd Floor
    NE side - near Room 3136
    SE side - near Room 3290
  • 4th Floor
    NE side - near Room 4130
    SE side - near Room 4285
For more information, call (708) 709-7777.

Each EvacuChair site also has a hanging sign denoting “Emergency Evacuation Area.”

In the event of a fire or other emergency, anyone in a wheelchair or with a mobility issue should go immediately to one of the EvacuChair sites and stay there. This is where emergency personnel will look for them. Please assist in directing anyone to one of these sites.