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Privacy and Protection
Can You Get an Order of Protection?
After there has been an arrest, an Order of Protection can be arranged through the criminal court. The order can prohibit the accused from trying to contact you or from approaching your home, classes or where you work. The Judicial Administrator's office can also issue an order of protection once campus proceedings have begun . Information about an Order of Protection is available from the police and from the Judicial Administrator's office (500 Day Hall).
Will Anyone Contact Your Parents Without Your Permission?
If you are eighteen years or over, no law enforcement agencies, University offices or crisis intervention agencies will contact your parents. However, if you are not eighteen, some departments of the university have a legal obligation to contact your parents or guardians. In either case, your parents may be notified if you are hospitalized for serious physical injuries resulting from the assault.
Will Your Peers Find Out What Happened?
University and law enforcement personnel will do their best to maintain your privacy. If a victim over eighteen requests complete confidentiality (no notifications), the University Police will honor the request. They may suggest other people on campus who offer confidential support, e.g. CURW (Cornell United Religious Work), ISSO (International Students and Scholars Office), or Gannett Health Center's Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) or Contraception, Gynecology, and Sexual Service (CGSS). See Resources.
Once a case goes to the prosecutor, confidentiality cannot be assured. Friends, Campus Life staff and others may be questioned during an investigation. Law enforcement personnel will need to visit the scene of the crime to search for evidence; their presence may be apparent to peers and others.
Will Your Name Appear in the Media?
Most newspapers and television stations in New York State choose not to report the name of a survivor of a sexual assault or rape who has gone to the authorities; however, there are no guarantees that your name will not be mentioned. Sometimes the survivor's name is publicized if the perpetrator is acquitted after a trial. The choice as to whether or not to print a survivor's name is entirely at the editor's discretion and confidentiality cannot be assured once charges are filed.
Will the University Take Any Action Against the Assailant?
Cornell University will not take action unless a complaint is filed with the Judicial Administrator (J.A.). The university has a Campus Code of Conduct (Code) that applies to students, faculty and staff. This Code addresses behavior that occurs on campus, in a University-related residential organization (co-ops, fraternities or sororities) or in an educational facility. It is a violation of the Code to harass, threaten, abuse, assault or rape another person. The Judicial Administrator or the University Hearing Board can take administrative action against a Cornell member who is found guilty of violating the Code. The range of possible penalties include community service hours, counseling, a no-contact order, suspension or expulsion from the university.
Return to: Index of Cornell Legal Action
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