Reporting Options and Protective Measures
About Reporting
Safety is our number one priority. You are in control of the reporting process. Should you choose to make a report, you may choose any of the resources below to disclose to. Most importantly, please note the difference between confidential and non-confidential reporting options.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking, we are here to help you navigate your options.
Ultimately, your protection and safety are of the utmost priority, and we will do our best to support you. Following a report or disclosure, we will facilitate reasonable supportive and protective measures on a case-by-case basis. Below is a list of supportive/protective measures that may be offered. To explore these options, please contact one of the confidential resources at Dean College listed below.
Ways to Report
While there is no one right way to get help, below are some suggested resources and next steps available to you within 24 hours following an experience of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking.
Report to the College
The following on-campus resources are not confidential and are not intended for emergency situations.
- Campus Police and Safety (24/7): Dean Hall Ground Floor 508-541-1888
- Title IX Coordinator: Campus Center 208 508-541-1841
- Deputy Title IX Coordinator for Students: Campus Center 209 508-541-1553
Confidential Reporting and Support
- Counseling Services (M-F): 508-541-1838, counselingservices@dean.edu
- Health Services (M-F): 508-541-1600
- Survivor Advocate (by appointment): email: survivoradvocate@dean.edu
- Wayside Trauma Intervention Services: call: 1-800-511-5070
Criminal Investigation Q+A
Every victim and survivor has the right to pursue, at any time, a legal investigation outside the college if they choose to. Dean College Campus Police and Safety to ensure the rights of victims and survivors at the college.
Click below for frequently asked questions.
What is criminal/legal investigation?
A criminal investigation is separate from the college's investigation. During a criminal/legal investigation, Campus Police and Safety would conduct an investigation regarding the assault.
What happens if I want to pursue a criminal investigation?
You have the option to meet with a Campus Police and Safety officer (either a sworn police officer or a non-sworn campus safety officer). The officer will ask you basic questions pertaining to the incident, and will able to explain the criminal investigation process. If you choose to move forward, Campus Police and Safety will contact Franklin Police to meet with you. If you choose to meet with Law Enforcement Services, they are required to inform Franklin PD of the initial report. Following your meeting with Franklin PD, you are not required to move forward with an investigation.
How can Franklin Police support me?
If you are interested or considering a criminal/legal option, we encourage you to reach out to Law Enforcement Services or Franklin PD directly to begin this process. The earlier you choose to make contact, the sooner Franklin PD is able to collect evidence to preserve your rights should you move forward with an investigation.
How long does a criminal process take?
Since this process takes place outside the college, and in the criminal justice system, staying connected to Franklin Police can better help answer this question. The answers may vary on a case-by-case basis.
Sexual Misconduct Investigations Q+A
Title IX (1972) is a federal law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in educational programs. Title IX serves as a powerful tool to address gender-based violence on college campuses. When a report of sexual misconduct is made, the college may investigate. Sexual Misconduct is a broad term that refers to all forms of inappropriate physical, verbal or other behavior on the basis of sex or gender, including but not limited to rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment, sexual exploitation, domestic and dating violence, stalking, and related offenses. Learn more about Title IX and reporting sexual misconduct on campus.
Click below for frequently asked questions.
What happens after I choose to report? What are some immediate support options available?
You may choose to make a report to a confidential or non-confidential employee. The employee will discuss with you next steps in the investigation process. Following a report, you will also be provided with a variety of resources including, but not limited to, Counseling Services, medical attention, and/or supportive and protective measures. Please see "Resources and Reporting Options" for additional information.
If I choose to have the college investigate, do I have to move forward with a criminal/legal investigation?
No, you are not required to pursue a criminal/legal investigation if you choose to move forward with a college investigation. In circumstances where the report may indicate a risk to the safety of the community, the college reserves the right to inform local Law Enforcement Services as well as conduct a college investigation.
How long does the college investigation process take?
The timeframe of each college investigation varies; the college will make every reasonable effort to complete the investigation within a timely manner. Students will be notified in a timely manner of any expected delays in the investigation process. The notification of delay will include the duration of delay and reasons.
What if my loved ones want me to report or move forward with an investigation but I don't want to?
Healing is not linear, and the healing process looks different for everybody. Your family and friends may have your best interest at heart; however, it is your right to decide what is the best course of action for you
If I or someone I know was using alcohol or substances, will either of us get in trouble for making a report?
For incidents of Sexual Misconduct, you will not face disciplinary consequences for alcohol or substance use violations through the college as we have an Amnesty Policy.
I am worried about retaliation if I move forward with an investigation. What do I need to know?
The College strictly prohibits retaliation against any person who reports an incident of Sexual Misconduct, participates in an investigation of Sexual Misconduct, or supports a victim of Sexual Misconduct. Any person who commits such retaliation will face serious consequences including suspension and dismissal from the College. Some examples of retaliatory behavior are listed below (this is not an all-inclusive list): any threats, coercion or physical violence for reporting an incident severe intentional isolation for reporting an incident verbal harassment in person or on social media for reporting an incident The College will take reasonable steps to prevent and respond to any notice of retaliation. If you choose to make a report, the college offers a variety of supports, accommodations, and protective measures that may be provided for you to assure your safety and well-being.