When a rape/sexual offense is reported, the College will make every effort to see that the victim is offered both medical and psychological care as well as information about prosecuting the suspect through both criminal and College disciplinary channels. College students who are victims of sexual offenses are encouraged to report the incident to the Public Safety Department. Jurisdiction for investigating such cases for the purpose of pursuing criminal charges rest jointly with both the VSCC and Gallatin Police Department. If the suspect is a student, the student victim is encouraged to contact the Student Services Office immediately. Student Services staff members, including those from the Dean of Student Services Office, can assist the victim in contacting the Public Safety Department.
A victim of any form of sexual offense is encouraged to seek appropriate medical assistance. If immediate medical attention is warranted, the victim should be transported to a hospital emergency room. If immediate attention is not warranted, the College Student Health Service and the Student Counseling Center should be contacted as soon as possible for the appropriate follow-up with the victim. It is important that the victim seek medical attention in order to assure his/her well being and to ensure that any evidence is preserved as possible proof of criminal sexual assault in the event that criminal charges are pursued.