These rights include assistance in reporting the crime and in securing counseling and health services. Accused persons are subject to arrest, incarceration, and prosecution through the court system. As campus members, accused persons are subject to university judicial proceedings that may result in permanent expulsion or dismissal from Columbus State University. Campus action may proceed independently of action by local, state or federal authorities. Columbus State University offers information regarding the prevention of sex offenses through its Public Safety Department.
Sexual assault includes any physical sexual contact with a person who is unable to consent.
The Policy Sexual assaults should be reported immediately to Public Safety if the assault occurred on campus or to local law enforcement if the assault occurred off campus. Staff of the Counseling Center, the Student Health Center, or Public Safety can assist the campus member with reporting the crime. Reporting sexual assaults may reduce the possibilities of future assaults and continued criminal behavior by the accused. A campus member who is accused of sexually assaulting another campus member is subject to criminal and civil prosecution in a court of law, and is also subject to proceedings which may lead to disciplinary action by Columbus State University. If the assaulted campus member decides to initiate criminal proceedings, the completing of a sexual assault kit is vital for any subsequent legal action.