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WELCOME TO RUTGERS-NEWARK from the Chancellor

Late-night television humor notwithstanding, downtown Newark today is an active and safe urban core where lots of people work, dine, attend cultural and athletic events, and go to college or graduate school. The Rutgers-Newark campus sits right in downtown Newark, and has contributed significantly to Newark’s revitalization and its falling crime rate.

Rutgers-Newark devotes many resources to making this campus a pleasant, clean and safe place to study and work.

No college campus is completely free of crime, however. Safety and security are interactive processes, not spectator sports. We need your cooperation and your common sense, and we need you to be aware. Each student and each employee plays a major role in reducing opportunities for crime.

Safety Matters provides a useful guide to all the security policies, procedures and programs that Rutgers maintains to serve you. Please take the time to carefully review all of these services, and more importantly, take advantage of them. Together, we can make the Rutgers-Newark campus an ever more secure environment.

Steven J. Diner
Chancellor

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A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Since my return to Rutgers, I have had the privilege of meeting and talking with many members of the community about how our university can become an even better place in which to learn, explore new ideas, teach, conduct research and work.  At Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey we are committed to maintaining a safe, clean and physically attractive environment for our students, faculty, staff and visitors.

Safety Matters describes the safety programs and resources available at Rutgers.  It will inform you of prevention measures and raise your level of awareness.  Both are critical elements in reducing the opportunity for crime on campus.  I encourage you to review this information and share any suggestions you may have to improve security and safety with the Division of Public Safety.

Campus safety must be a priority for everyone in the Rutgers community.  With your cooperation, we can work together to raise awareness, deter crime and maintain a secure campus.  

Richard L. McCormick
President of the University

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The Offices Responsible for Campus Security

The Division of Public Safety (973/353-5581) has primary responsibility for security on the Newark campus. The division has a police department and a security department. The Office of Housing and Residence Life (973/353-1037) formulates living and visitation policies.

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The People Working for Your Safety

Division of Public Safety personnel at Rutgers-Newark includes 34 commissioned police officers, 36 full time and part time security officers (including 19 assigned to housing), five civilian dispatchers and 25 community service officers (uniformed students on patrol). These men and women work together to patrol and safeguard our campus and respond to your needs 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Rutgers-Newark has maintained a full-time police department since 1971. The department is located at 200 University Avenue. Rutgers police are commissioned by the State of New Jersey, armed and empowered to arrest. Prior to being commissioned, our officers receive a minimum of 16 weeks of training through the Police Training Commission of New Jersey, the same training and certification received by municipal police officers in the state.

Unarmed security officers patrol our buildings and grounds as well, acting as additional eyes and ears for our police officers. These security officers are able to communicate directly with campus police via two-way radio.

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University Police Authority

University police officers have complete authority to apprehend and arrest anyone involved in illegal acts, both on and off campus. Offenses committed by Rutgers students may be referred to the appropriate college or university judicial board, prosecuted in the courts, and, in some cases, both.

Our campus police force also works closely with the Newark Police Department and with the police at the adjacent campuses of the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ), and Essex County College (ECC).

Rutgers reports crime statistics to the state of New Jersey via the Uniform Crime Report system. We are also members of the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and State Crime Information Center (SCIC) computer networks, allowing us to receive and transmit serial numbers of missing and found property, as well as information about missing or wanted persons.

The Rutgers Police Department has no written memoranda in regards to "mutual aid" agreements with other public safety organizations. All public safety organizations in the State of New Jersey are obligated to provided "mutual aid" to another public safety organization when requested. The Rutgers Police Department provides "mutual aid" to other public safety organizations and this aid is returned to us in the event of our need.

The Rutgers Police Department strongly encourages all of our community members to report to us if they have been a victim of a crime or have witnessed a crime so that it can be investigated and addressed accordingly.

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Timely Warnings

In the event that a confirmed significant emergency or dangerous situation takes place that involves an immediate threat to the health or safety of faculty, staff, students or visitors on or near campus, timely and/or immediate warnings and notifications will be made to our campus community via mass e-mailing, text messaging and through posted flyers. Some circumstances may require public safety personnel to "lock down" buildings or areas until a threat or emergency situation is remedied. Public safety personnel will take any and all necessary actions to resolve any emergency or threat situation here on campus.

Our campus wide evacuation plan has been posted throughout our campus on the public information bulletin boards located in each of our buildings. Please familiarize yourself with this plan. If you would like a personal copy, please call 973-353-5547.

The Rutgers Newark Department of Public Safety conducts various emergency drills, participates in desk top simulations and conducts various types of emergency evacuations annually. Public safety personnel continuously receive updated training in emergency response.

All members of our community are asked to contact the Rutgers Police Department immediately if they observe any suspicious activity, at any time. Any and all assistance from our community will help us keep our community safe.

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Access to University Buildings and Programs

Access to university buildings other than residence halls is available to Rutgers students, faculty, staff and others with an authorized educational purpose. Access to residence halls is restricted to residents and their invited guests as more fully discussed in the sections on residence hall security and residence hall visitation policies. Anyone in university buildings for an unauthorized purpose is subject to arrest for trespassing (by the Rutgers University Police Department (RUPD)).

Many campus events and activities at Rutgers are open to the general public, while others are restricted to our students, faculty, and staff. Additional police personnel may be hired for such large gatherings as athletic events, festivals, drama presentations, concerts, and lectures.

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Special Security Services

The Rutgers University Police Department sponsors a number of special security services aimed at creating a safer environment.

Sensitive Crime Reporting. The Rutgers University Police Department works closely with the Newark Police Department's Sexual Assault and Rape Analysis (SARA) unit on the investigation of sensitive crimes, including acquaintance rape and stranger rape. If you are a victim of a sensitive crime or bias crime (incidents related to race, religion, or sexual orientation), you are encouraged to call the Rutgers University Police Department.

Shuttle Bus Service. During the evening hours, from 4:00 p.m. to midnight, a shuttle service, operated jointly with the New Jersey Institute of Technology, provides transportation for the university community to and from the two campuses and major mass transit systems. It also makes stops in Harrison and Kearny. The shuttle bus service runs approximately every 30 minutes Monday through Friday evenings and is free of charge to the university community.  In addition, other shuttle services are provided to various campus parking lots as well as to the Broad Street and Penn Stations. Information and schedules for all shuttle services can be found at http://nwkpolice.rutgers.edu/shuttlebus.html

Operation Identification. The Rutgers University Police Department at Newark encourages the engraving of an identification number, such as a driver's license number, on valuable personal property to discourage theft and increase the possibility of recovery. The department has engraving equipment available for loan and offers assistance to students who wish to participate in this program.

Escorts. The Rutgers University Police at Newark will provide an escort service for any student, faculty, and staff member who seeks the service, by calling RUPD at 973/353-5581.

Student and Staff ID Program. Every student, faculty, and staff member on campus is issued a photo identification card upon joining the university community. The cards are required to be carried on campus at all times and help to protect against unauthorized entrance to campus buildings and activities. Your identification card also serves as a library card.

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Reporting Campus Crime

It is imperative that all crime and suspicious activity be reported promptly to the University Police. By working together, the university community and the police can reduce crime on campus. The appropriate public safety staff will handle all reports of criminal activities or emergencies. You may report criminal activities or other emergencies in several different ways at Rutgers.

Police, Fire, or Medical Emergencies. Dial 5111 from any campus phone. From off-campus phones or residence hall phones, dial 973/353-5111.

Police Non-Emergency Services or Information. Dial 973/353-5581.

Campus Emergency Phones. If outdoors on campus, you may use one of the many yellow emergency phones with blue lights. Red emergency phones are located in the interiors of the Center for Law and Justice, Bradley Hall, Ackerson Hall, the Institute of Animal Behavior, Blumenthal Hall, and Parking Deck II. Simply lift the receiver of an emergency phone and a police dispatcher will answer. The location from which you are calling is automatically displayed to the police.

Residence Hall Phones. In residence halls, each housing unity is equipped with an intercom system, which is a direct link to the security officer in the lobby, for emergency use.

Coin-Operated Phones. A coin is not needed for emergency use of campus coin-operated phones. Simply dial "0" and ask to be connected with the Rutgers University Police Department in Newark.

Campus Security Personnel. You should report suspicious or emergency conditions to any police officer, security officer or community service officer whom you see.

Police Headquarters. Anyone may report a situation in person at the Rutgers University Police Department Newark headquarters, located at 200 University Avenue. A police official is available 24 hours a day to assist you.

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Policies on Alcohol, Drugs, Weapons, Criminal Records

The following information applies to students, faculty, and staff. Additional guidelines for faculty and staff are listed in the University Regulations and Procedures Manual, section 6.4.13, available from the Office of Employee Relations.

Alcoholic Beverages. Rutgers enforces all state laws regarding the possession, use, and sale of alcoholic beverages, including those prohibiting the consumption of alcoholic beverages by persons under age 21.

The use of alcohol is restricted at events sponsored by university groups. Kegs of beer are not permitted in residence halls.

THE NEWARK CAMPUS POLICY ON THE USE OF ALCOHOL BEVERAGES IS AS FOLLOWS:

General Statement

Rutgers University-Newark recognizes that the abuse of alcohol among college aged young adults is a national problem. In an effort to address this, Rutgers University-Newark has developed a comprehensive Alcohol Assistance Program aimed at prevention and intervention for those with alcohol related problems and includes a wide array of clinical services, recovery housing and alcohol education and training. Rutgers University-Newark has also established procedures and policies which govern the use of alcohol for University sponsored events which take place both on and off the Newark campus.

The sale, service, possession and comsumption of alcoholic beverages on the Rutgers University-Newark campus are regulated by federal and state laws and by local ordinances. The University does not have the authority to alter the laws or secure exemption from them. Members of the University are individually responsible for determining how aopplicable laws, regulations and ordinances apply to them, and for obeying them. The University expects its members to demonstrate respect and regard for the rights, proaperty and persons of all individuals; to take responsibility for their own actions; and to act to reduce risks of damage and harm.

1. Undergraduate Alcohol Policy

The use of alcoholic beverages at undergraduate sponsored or co-sponsored events is prohibited at any University sanctioned event on or off the Rutgers-Newark Campus. Undergraduate student activity funds and admission fees may NOT be used to purchase alcoholic beverages in connection with any Rutgers University-Newark sponsored activity

A. Residence Halls

Use of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in Woodward Hall, the undergraduate residence hall, regardless of age. Alcohol is permitted for students of age in the other residence halls. All students who reside in any Rutgers-Newark residence halls will be held accountable to the Residence Life Code of Conduct as stated in all Housing & Residence Life housing contracts.

II Graduate Alcohol Policy

The use of alcoholic beverages at graduate student, faculty and staff social funtions on the Rutgers University -Newark campus is allowable only to the extent that the serving of alcohol is restricted to those of legal drinking age as defined by pertinent New Jersey Statues. Such functions must be restricted to areas designated by the Deans and/or Chancellors. In all cases, State laws governing the dispensing of alcoholic beverages must be observed.

Graduate Student activity funds and admission fees may be used to purchase alcoholic beverages in connection with the Rutgers University-Newark campus sponsored event. The use of student fee money for the purchase of alcoholic beverages must have the approval of the appropriate Dean of Students and appropriate student fee board. In those units, which have no Dean of Students, the approval of the Dean of the College is required.

A. Policy Guidelines for Graduate Students, Faculty

Newark campus community members must be sensitive to the fact that many students cannot or choose not to drink because of the provisions of law or other reasons. Event organizers should make appropriate accommodations for such students.

Newark campus community members must also observe the following practices when alcoholic beverages are served:

(1). Provide an equal quantity of non-alcoholic beverages in the same location in an equally attractive variety. Such a determination will be at the discretion of Dean of Student Services for each academic college or by a representative from the Office of Dean of Student Affairs. Provide food in sufficient quantity for the number of persons present. It is expected that the food is not limited to snacks but includes sandwiches, pizza or other main dishes. It is suggested that at a minimum, twenty-five percent of the budget for an event is allocated for the purchase of food.

(2). In any advertisement, note the availability of non-alcoholic beverages and food.

(3). Provide supervision by persons who have a demonstrable awareness of the regulations and the techniques to reduce risk and have been so trained by a nationally certified educational/training program. In any group where alcoholic beverages are served, it is expected that at least one person, who has been certified, will be responsible for insuring adherence to all above guidelines and successful compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Anyone interested in server training may call the Alcohol and Drug Assistance Program to request training options at 973-353-1236.

(4). All Newark campus events with alcohol MUST have someone who has completed a nationally recognized server training program or the organization may secure an outside vendor with a license to serve alcohol.

(5). Discontinue the sale or service of alcohol at least one hour before the anticipated end of the event.

Sanctions and Enforcements

Individuals and/or organizations that fail to abide by University policy and regulations governing the use of alcoholic beverages shall be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with established procedures at college and university levels. Residence Life has established sactions if students violate the alcohol policy. Sanctions include but are not limited to mandatory referals for alcohol evaluation and assessment, community service or repeated violations may reslut in removal from housing. The University student code of conduct describes violations and sanctions in detail.

Organizations may be subject to various disciplinary actions such as the forfeiture of student fee support and the revoking of their charter. Sanctions may be imposed on individual members of organizations if University regulations are violated.

University officials, charged with the responsibility to monitor and enforce these regulations, may terminate an event if there is a violation of state and municipal laws or the University alcohol policy.

Disorderly persons will be barred and evicted from University facilities in accordance with the normal operating procedures of the University Police.

llegal Drugs. Rutgers enforces all state and federal laws concerning illegal drugs. Anyone who is apprehended by the police in possession of, using, or selling drugs is arrested.

Possession of Weapons. All university police officers and their supervisors carry weapons while on duty. In accordance with state law, no one other than commissioned law enforcement personnel, military personnel while on duty, and others authorized under NJS 2C:39-6 may carry firearms on campus.

Previous Criminal Records. Except for applicants to some graduate schools, prospective students are not asked about previous criminal records. A thorough background investigation is conducted of
all police and security officials before hire.

Drug and Alcohol Education and Treatment Programs. Rutgers University has well-established programs to prevent the abuse of alcohol and other drugs and to offer help to those who suffer from the consequences of alcohol and other drug abuse.

The Alcohol and Other Drug Assistance Program for Students (ADAPS) is a counseling and information program for students who are concerned about their drinking or use of other drugs, about a friend's use/abuse, or about drug or alcohol misuse in their families.

ADAPS, housed in Blumenthal Hall, provides a variety of services, including counseling, substance abuse awareness groups, recovery support groups, and adult children of alcoholics groups.

The Health Promotion and Unity Theater also exists to address alcohol and other drug issues.

In addition, the Rutgers University Police address the abuse of alcohol as it relates to driving while intoxicated, sexual assault, and other abusive behaviors in their crime prevention programs.

The Rutgers University Personnel Counseling Service is available to help faculty and staff employees and members of their immediate families with personal, emotional, social, or health-related problems. The service offers assistance with a variety of problems, including dependence on alcohol and/or other substances. As with all other programs, any contacts with the service are strictly confidential. Call 973/353-1236 for more information.

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Creating a Safe Environment

Doors and windows that lock securely, properly operating alarm systems, well-lighted campus walkways and parking areas - these are important elements of a safe campus environment. Proper maintenance of campus facilities and prompt response to emergency situations are integral parts of Rutgers' public safety program.

Fire Safety Services. Fire safety is a major component of our total safety and security program. Fire safety specialists provide fire safety awareness training sessions in the residence halls and conduct emergency evacuation drills to familiarize occupants with emergency procedures. These specialists are responsible for inspecting all university buildings and enforcing the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code. The City of Newark Fire Department, the largest full-time paid fire department in the state, responds to fire emergencies on the Newark campus.

Emergency Medical Service. The Emergency medical services are provided through the Rutgers University Police Department, which works in conjunction with the medical emergency teams serving the City of Newark, including ambulances provided by the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey.

Security Maintenance. Problems with safety-related hardware (such as doors, locks, windows, lights, security screens) in all buildings should be promptly reported for repair. Facilities maintenance engineers are available 24 hours a day to react to safety-related problems. Repair requests can also be directed to the University Police, who will, in turn, notify the mechanic on duty.

Any member of the university community may report a security or maintenance concern by calling the campus physical plant office during business hours at 973/353-5441, and at other times by contacting the Rutgers University Police Department at 973/353-5581.

Rutgers has installed and maintains exterior lighting around our buildings, as well as additional sidewalk and roadway lighting, to keep the campus well lighted. Shrubbery maintenance is conducted with both security and appearance in mind.

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An Informed Campus Community

Rutgers provides annually updated security information to all students and employees. New students also receive information on security procedures and policies and on how to obtain additional security information.

The Rutgers University Police Department takes a proactive position on crime prevention. In addition to conducting an orientation on personal safety for first-year students, the University Police Department at Rutgers-Newark hosts an extensive range of safety-related programs. Crime Prevention lectures are provided at least ten (10) times a year at Open House events, New Student Orientations and upon request. The department also provides free crime prevention literature, which is available at several campus locations, including the lobby of the police headquarters.

The student newspaper, The Observer, publishes the daily police bulletin, and various campus newsletters print crime prevention information. The daily incident log may be reviewed by visiting police headquarters.

Additional informational materials describing crime prevention measures, including brochures, flyers, posters, and key chains, are distributed each year. Information regarding immediate significant crime awareness is distributed via e-mail to the comprehensive faculty, staff and student list serves.

The Campus Community is advised that law enforcement agency information on registered sex offenders is available online at the following website: http://www.njsp.org/info/reg_sexoffend.html

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Harassment

Rutgers policy protects students, staff, and faculty from sexual interactions at work or school that impact negatively on employment or educational achievement. Unwelcome interactions, if severe or pervasive, come within the university's definition of sexual harassment. Consensual relationships that occur between faculty and students, or supervisors and subordinates, are acknowledged by the university to frequently create conflicts that can be harmful to one or both parties. Therefore, the person in a consensual intimate relationship who is in a position to evaluate the other is required by the harassment policy to arrange the work or educational relationship so that he or she never evaluates the other person's work again.

The university's policy also prohibits anyone from being required to work, study, or live in an environment that would be experienced as hostile by a reasonable person of that gender, race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, age, disability, marital, or veteran status. The Office of Employment Equity coordinates education and intervention, and can be reached at 732/932-3020x4030. Formal or informal interventions are possible under the policy (Most situations can protect anonymity), and advisers are available to help in navigating options. Visit the department's home page at http://uhr.rutgers.edu/ee/oeeservices.htm  to read the policy, find an adviser, or link to other sites about campus climate issues.

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Sexual Assault Notification Procedures

Sexual assault, often referred to as rape, is a serious crime. Reporting a sexual assault can be a difficult process and may seem overwhelming at times. The Rutgers University Police Department (RUPD) treats victims of assault with respect, courtesy, and dignity, believing that a victim's safety and privacy are of major importance. If you have been sexually assaulted on campus, you are strongly encouraged to report the incident to the Rutgers University Police Department by dialing 5111 from a campus phone or pick up an emergency telephone as soon as possible. Filing a report does not commit you to pursuing an investigation or prosecution and the University Police will respect your decision. 

If the assault occurred at a location off campus, report the incident to the municipal police where the assault occurred. (RUPD will assist individuals who are unsure of how and where to report the crime.)  The Essex County Prosecutor's Victim/Witness Advocacy Office (973-621-4687) is another resource for victims of crimes occurring in Newark or Essex County.

Once you call RUPD:

• a police officer will respond to your location.  The officer will begin an interview and investigation.  It is the investigating officer's responsibility to collect information that will aid in the apprehension and prosecution of the perpetrator if you choose to pursue an investigation.  This information is most effective when it is collected as quickly as possible after a crime occurs.
• You may have a support person with you through this process, or ask that it be delayed until a sexual assault advocate is available.
• You may also ask to be taken directly to the emergency room for care, and complete the report after you have been evaluated and treated.

The University Police will treat your complaint seriously regardless of your gender or the gender of your assailant.  You may report a sexual assault any time of day or night.  We are committed to working with you to make the Rutgers campus a safe and responsive community.

The University Police will contact a victim advocate from the Newark campus Sexual Assault Services, which is a part of Health Services, during business hours; or from the Essex County Rape Care Center (1-877-733-2273) nights and weekends.

The advocate is trained to provide you with support and help through the initial process, and will provide resources for assistance as you recover.

The advocate will also provide you with information regarding the medical exam, options for filing charges through the Police and/or the University Judicial Board (if the assailant is a Rutgers student).

The University Police will offer you options for seeking medical attention, and will provide transportation to and from one of the local hospitals certified to deliver sexual assault services at your request.  There, a specially trained sexual assault nurse examiner will conduct a private, sensitive examination; and offer you the option of evidence collection, and treatment for possible injuries, infections or pregnancy that can result from a sexual assault.  The exam will occur in a private area, usually located near the emergency room.  The fees for this exam are covered by  the Crime Victim's Compensation fund or to the limits of the Rutgers Student Insurance.

Although you may be feeling overwhelmed now, and thinking you will not report or prosecute, you may feel differently tomorrow or next week.  Evidence that is collected will be held for 90 days.  It does not commit you to going forward, but it leaves you the option.

Do not bathe, shower, change clothing, brush your teeth, or discard anything that may have come into contact with your assailant until you have been examined at the hospital or spoken with the police or an advocate.

The University is concerned about your emotional health and academic success, both of which may be affected by a sexual assault. Please contact SAS/RUN at (973-353-HELP) and you will be accommodated without delay.  Rutgers Newark Counseling Services (983-353-5805) and the Essex County Rape Care Center (1-877-733-2273) are other resources available to you.

You may request a change in your academic schedule or living arrangements, and the university will assist you in making those alterations if they are possible.  SAS/RUN will assist you in making the arrangements and contacts you need.

Deciding whether to pursue charges through the criminal justice system and/or the internal University Code of Student Conduct is an individual decision only you can make.

Only the Prosecutor's office files criminal charges.  That process is preceded by a criminal investigation conducted by the RUPD and/or other police agencies.  Evidence is submitted to the Prosecutor's office which makes the determination of whether or not to pursue. This is the system that imposes criminal penalties if an assailant is found guilty,

  Sexual Assault Services and the RUPD will keep you apprised of the progress of the case,          answer any questions you may have, and facilitate your involvement with the prosecutor assigned to  your case.

The University Judicial Board determines whether there has been a violation of the Code of Student Conduct and can impose penalties such as expulsion, suspension, or reparation. The University Judicial process is an option if the assailant is a Rutgers student.,

  Both the accuser and the accused (called complainant and respondent) are entitled to the same rights during any campus sexual assault judicial proceedings, including the right to have others present during the proceedings and the right to be informed of the outcome.  Students found guilty of sexual assault or nonconsensual sexual contact are subject to a range of penalties up to and including separation from the university.

A survivor may use either one or both resources.

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Sexual Assault Services and Crime Victim Assistance

Rutgers is committed to creating a community free from violence where all members treat one another with respect and human dignity. Recognizing that our society is imperfect and that crime occurs both on and off campus, Rutgers Newark has developed an office of Sexual Assault Services Services within Health Services.   Crime Victim Assistance Programs are delivered through the RUPD.  Services are available to all University students, staff and faculty to prevent crimes and to respond to the needs of crime victims.

The Sexual Assault Service, located in Blumenthal Hall Suite 104 (973-353-HELP) provides advocacy, crisis intervention, medical evaluation and treatment, referral and coordination of services, and short-term counseling to all survivors of interpersonal violence.

Crime Victim Assistance services, administered through the RUPD, includes referral and support services to individuals who have been victims of a broad range of crimes, including car vandalism, theft of a wallet/purse, and harassment.

Staff work collaboratively with other university offices in the development of educational initiatives that provide opportunities for members of the Rutgers community to explore behaviors and attitudes about violence, in particular sexual assault, sexual harassment, and dating violence.

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Campus Sexual Assault Victim's Bill of Rights

A college or university in a free society must be devoted to the pursuit of truth and knowledge through reason and open communication among its members. Academic communities acknowledge the necessity of being intellectually stimulating where the diversity of ideas is valued. Rules must be conceived for the purpose of furthering and protecting the rights of all members of the university community in achieving these ends.

Applicable state and federal laws and institutional rules and regulations governing interpersonal behavior limit the boundaries of personal freedom. In creating a community free from violence, sexual assault, and nonconsensual sexual contact, respect for the individual and human dignity are of paramount importance.

The state of New Jersey and Rutgers recognize that the impact of violence on victims and the surrounding community can be severe and long lasting. Thus, this Bill of Rights has been established to articulate requirements for policies, procedures, and services designed to ensure that the needs of victims are met and that the colleges and universities in New Jersey create and maintain communities that support human dignity.

Bill of Rights

The following rights shall be accorded to victims of sexual assaults that occur:

on the campus of any public or independent institution of higher education in the state of New Jersey, and

where the victim or alleged perpetrator is a student at that institution, and/or

when the victim is a student involved in an off-campus sexual assault.

Human Dignity Rights:

to be free from any suggestion that victims must report the crimes to be assured of any other right guaranteed under this policy

to have any allegations of sexual assault treated seriously; the right to be treated with dignity

to be free from any suggestion that victims are responsible for the commission of crimes against them

to be free from any pressure from campus personnel to:

Rights to Resources On and Off Campus:

to be notified of existing campus and community-based medical, counseling, mental health, and student services for victims of sexual assault whether or not the crime is formally reported to campus or civil authorities

to have access to campus counseling under the same terms and conditions as apply to other students in their institution seeking such counseling

to be informed of and assisted in exercising:

Campus Judicial Rights:

to be afforded the same access to legal assistance as the accused

to be afforded the same opportunity to have others present during any campus disciplinary proceeding that is allowed the accused

to be notified of the outcome of the sexual assault disciplinary proceeding against the accused.

Legal Rights:

to have any allegation of sexual assault investigated and adjudicated by the appropriate criminal and civil authorities of the jurisdiction in which the sexual assault is reported

to receive full and prompt cooperation and assistance of campus personnel in notifying the proper authorities

to receive full, prompt, and victim-sensitive cooperation of campus personnel with regard to obtaining, securing, and maintaining evidence, including a medical examination when it is necessary to preserve evidence of the assault.

Campus Intervention Rights:

to require campus personnel to take reasonable and necessary actions to prevent further unwanted contact of victims by their alleged assailants

to be notified of the options for and provided assistance in changing academic and living situations if such changes are reasonably available.

Statutory Mandates:

Each campus must guarantee that this Bill of Rights is implemented. It is the obligation of the individual campus governing board to examine resources dedicated to services required and to make appropriate requests to increase or reallocate resources where necessary to ensure implementation.

Each campus shall make every reasonable effort to ensure that every student at that institution receives a copy of this document.

Nothing in this act or in any "Campus Assault Victim's Bill of Rights" developed in accordance with the provisions of this act shall be construed to preclude or in any way restrict any public or independent institution of higher education in the state from reporting any suspected crime or offense to the appropriate law enforcement authorities.

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Residence Halls and Other Housing

There are five on-campus residence buildings at Rutgers-Newark.  Woodward Hall is a traditional undergraduate residence offering suite-style living arrangements to first year students.  In each suite, six students share three bedrooms, a bathroom, a living room and a vanity area.

Talbott Apartments and University Square Apartments house upper-class, transfer, and graduate students.  Four students share each apartment, with both single-room and double-room accommodations available.

In addition to the above accommodations we also have two buildings that are available for families.  These are period row houses located at 29 James Street and 77 Bleeker Street.  The two buildings consist of efficiencies and one-bedroom and two bedroom apartments.

Residence Hall Fire Safety

All University Housing Buildings are fully equipped with NFPA Compliant Fire Alarm Systems and Suppression (sprinkler) Systems.

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Residence Life Staff

Woodward Hall, Talbott Apartments, and University Square have professional and student staff members who live and work in the buildings.  Professional staff members supervise student staff, coordinate social and educational programs, and serve as resource persons for students with questions or special concerns.  Residence counselors and staff assistants lend support in all of these processes.

Professional and student staff undergoes extensive training sessions before each school year begins.  Staff participates in workshops on security issues, health concerns, crisis and personal counseling, fire evacuations and other emergency-related topics.

A staff member is on duty from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. each night to address students' concerns.  After that, the staff members remain on call until 8 a.m. the next morning to assist with emergency situations.  On the weekends, staff members remain in the buildings on call via the Security Officer.

A graduate student staff member who works in the housing office addresses problems and concerns at the family housing buildings at 29 James Street and 77 Bleeker Street.

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Residence Hall Security

Woodward Hall, Talbott Apartments and University Square each have a single entrance, which is locked at all times and is staffed by a uniformed security officer 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  Only those who present a valid resident's identification card to the security officer can gain entrance to each building.  The security officers are also responsible for clearing all guests.

Room and apartment keys are not marked with room numbers, so if lost, they cannot be identified with a particular room or apartment. Each housing unit is equipped with an intercom system that is directly linked with the security officer in the lobby for emergency assistance. Each unit also is equipped with a fire detector, and the buildings are equipped throughout with a sprinkler system.

Limited parking is available for residents in the university multilevel parking deck, which is attached to police headquarters and located near the residence halls.

First-floor windows are covered with security screens, which are removable from the inside for emergency exit. The grassy areas outside of Woodward and Talbott are monitored by closed-circuit television by the security officer in each entrance lobby.

A security officer or closed circuit television does not monitor the family housing units at 29 James Street and 77 Bleeker Street. However, residents are given a key to the main entrance and another key for their individual apartments. Each apartment is equipped with a smoke detector and the buildings are equipped with fire alarm systems.

Parking for family housing residents is available at the university parking deck, and residents of 29 James Street may purchase permits for the lot behind their building.

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Residence Hall Visitation Policies

Guests of Student Residents. University housing is provided for the exclusive use of Rutgers students properly assigned by the appropriate housing office. Students who bring guests to campus are responsible for making relevant university regulations known to them and must accept responsibility for their conduct during the visit.

No student may allow for the extended use of housing to any guest when such use can be constituted as a de facto sublet.

No student may have any visitor who becomes a source of complaint.

Host students have complete responsibility for all guests. Students accused of violating visitor policies may be subject to judicial action.

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Rutgers-Newark Campus Community

The following are approximate figures for students, faculty, and staff at the Newark campus of Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, based on Spring 2009 enrollment statistics.

Undergraduate students:

Full-time 5,256

Part-time 1,552

Graduate and professional students:

Full-time 1,546

Part-time 2,321

Administrators, faculty, and staff:

Full-time 1,832

Part-time 447

TOTAL 12,954

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is dedicated by law and by purpose to serving all people on an equal and nondiscriminatory basis.

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Some Tips for Your Safety

Be aware that you are a potential victim of crime. Stay alert and attuned to people and circumstances around you.

Avoid the use of alcohol and other drugs. Persons under the influence are much more likely to be the victims of a serious crime.

Immediately notify the Rutgers University Police Department of any person or activity that arouses your suspicion.

Know where emergency phones are located.

Avoid isolation. After dark, walk with others. Use well-lighted paths.

Indoors, avoid being alone in study rooms, laundry rooms, and other isolated areas.

Use university transportation and escort services. Do not hitchhike or pick up hitchhikers.

Do not prop open any building doors.

Keep the door to your residence hall room or apartment locked when you are alone or sleeping or when it is unoccupied.

Lock first floor windows, fire escape windows, and security screens.

Do not allow strangers into residence buildings.

Do not leave property unattended or unprotected.

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Numbers to Keep Handy

Police, Fire, or Medical Emergencies:

On Campus dial: 5111 or 80

Residence Halls dial: 973/353-5111

Police Non-Emergency Services or Information:

On Campus dial: 5581

Off Campus dial: 973/353-5581

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