Sexual assault also includes intentionally touching, either directly or through clothing, of the victim's genitals, breasts, thighs, or buttocks without the victim's consent, as well as touching or fondling of the accused by the victim when the victim is forced to do so against his or her will. Verbal misconduct, without accompanying physical contact as described above, is not defined as sexual assault. Verbal misconduct may constitute sexual harassment. Although sexual advances such as touching, patting, hugging or brushing against a person's body are generally viewed as forms of sexual misconduct, they are in fact legally categorized as simple assault, which is a misdemeanor offense. The victims of such unwanted sexual advances may take legal action that could prove both embarrassing and costly for the accused.
Complainants have three options.
They may pursue the college's informal or formal procedure, or they may initiate a legal proceeding. Collegial and legal proceedings are not mutually exclusive and may be used simultaneously. The complainant will be advised of all options available to her or him and of the statute of limitations for each option. All members of the academic community will have the right to Procedure I and Procedure II being handled in a discreet manner to the extent possible. I is to provide assistance to individuals complaining of sexual misconduct, and to provide opportunities for both the complainant and the accused to resolve the problem in an informal manner, without the necessity for disciplinary action or the need to resort to formal procedures.