5.1.19 University Violence Policy

Illinois State University is committed to a safe and secure environment for all employees, students, and visitors. Conduct that threatens the health or safety of any person, or creates a reasonable fear that such a result will occur, including but not limited to: acts of violence, threats of violence, threatening behavior, and/or reckless disregard for the health or safety of any person are not acceptable conduct at Illinois State University and will not be tolerated. Violation of this policy and/or the Code of Student Conduct will result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment and/or dismissal from the University.

Responsibility

The entire university community shares the responsibility for a safe and secure campus. Knowledge of violent acts or threats planned or carried out are to be reported to supervisors or other appropriate campus administrators immediately. In their absence or in the case of emergency, the University Police (911) should be contacted.

Application

This policy covers all persons:

1. on University property;
2. at University sponsored events;
3. fulfilling duties of a University student off-campus (such as student teaching, internship, conference, or international study abroad);
4. conducting official University business or representing Illinois State University off-campus; or
5. engaging in any negative action having direct impact on individuals within the University Community.

Definitions

Violence

Violence is the use of physical force or activity that causes harm, damage, or abuse of an individual or property. This includes physical force and/or activity which causes mental anguish.

Threat or Threatening Behavior

A threat is any statement or action, expressed or implied, that could cause a reasonable person to fear for the safety of him/herself, that of another person, and/or University property. Examples of threats include, but are not limited to words or actions which intimidate; harassment; stalking or following someone with the intent to harass, intimidate, harm, or cause other malicious activity; and the use of communication mediums to threaten such as telephone, fax, electronic or conventional mail.

Weapons