Safety and Security Policies and Procedures

Report an Incident

Lake Superior College encourages all students and College community members to be fully aware of the safety issues on the campus and to take action to prevent and to report illegal and/or inappropriate activities. Personal awareness and applying personal safety practices are the foundation of a safe community.

Pursuant to the Student Right to Know and Campus Security Act, Lake Superior College monitors criminal activity and publishes this report, maintains a three year statistical history on its campuses and at off campus property or facilities owned or used by Lake Superior College or recognized College organizations. Information for this report is gathered from local law enforcement agencies, the College’s Security Department and disciplinary/ judicial records as well as reports by members of the college community. Lake Superior College will notify current students and employees as well as prospective students and employees of its availability annually. Lake Superior College will provide a copy of the report upon request from the Office of the Director of Safety and Security (218) 733-7656.

Lake Superior College currently has a variety of policies and procedures relating to campus security and it expressly reserves the right to modify them or adopt additional policies or procedures at any time without notice. Such changes may appear in successive issues of this report.

CRIME REPORTING POLICIES

A. Reporting Policies

  1. The Security Department is the office to which all criminal reports should be made (218) 733-6911 (office), (218) 522-1019 (cell). Everyone on campus (including students, faculty, staff and visitors) are encouraged to report immediately any and all potentially criminal activity to the Security Department and/or the local police department. Individuals reporting to Lake Superior College who also wish to file a complaint with the Duluth Police Department will be provided with assistance from Lake Superior College upon request.
  2. Lake Superior College normally requires a written complaint from someone to begin the investigation process. Lake Superior College also usually needs the assistance of the complainant in the disciplinary process against the accused. Lake Superior College will make exceptions when necessary, including cases presenting clear danger to the victim and/or the College Community.
  3. Lake Superior College will issue an annual report of criminal reports made to the College and other law enforcement agencies for crimes occurring on college property or facilities. The annual report includes reported crimes alleged to have occurred on the campus, residence hall and grounds, and facilities owned or rented by Lake Superior College and/or recognized student organizations. It includes the following reports of crime:
    1. Murder/non-negligent manslaughter;
    2. Forcible sex offenses (including forcible rape):
    3. Non-forcible sex offenses:
    4. Robbery;
    5. Aggravated Assault;
    6. Burglary;
    7. Motor Vehicle Theft;
    8. Arson;
    9. Hate Offenses – occurrences that manifest evidence of prejudice based upon race, religion, sexual orientation, gender, disability or ethnicity
  1. Negligent Manslaughter;
  2. Murder/non-negligent manslaughter;
  3. Aggravated assault;
  4. All Forcible sex offenses (including forcible rape);
  5. Arson;
  6. Negligent manslaughter;
  7. Simple assault.

The report also includes disciplinary actions/judicial referrals and arrests for the following:

  1. Liquor law violations;
  2. Drug abuse violations;
  3. Weapons possession.
  1. The Security Department serves as the primary liaison for campus security with all law enforcement agencies.
  2. When reports are made to the Security Department, the Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs or other administrative personnel in charge, the appropriate administrator will decide if a threat continues to exist to the campus community. If a threat continues to exist, a warning will be sent out informing the campus community.

B. Reporting Procedures

  1. All criminal activity occurring on campus should be reported immediately to the Security Department, (218) 733-6911 (office), (218) 522-1019 (cell) and/or the Duluth Police Department, (218) 723-3434.
  2. Every effort should be made to ensure that physical evidence is maintained and protected. Immediate reports will assist in preserving evidence.
  3. If you are a victim of a crime or witness a crime:
    1. Call the Security Department, (218) 733-6911 (office), (218) 522-1019 (cell) or the police department in Duluth (218) 723-3434 for any emergency including medical assistance, suspicious people or activities, crime reports, traffic accidents, or other illegal activities;
    2. Obtain a description of the offender(s), including sex, age, race, hair, clothing, and other distinguishable features. Attempt to obtain a description and license number of any vehicle involved. Note the direction taken by offenders or vehicles and report those to Administration or the police;
    3. Preserve the crime scene: Do not touch any items involved in the incident. Close off the area of the incident and do not allow anyone in the crime area until college personnel and/or the police arrive.
  4. The College will accept third-party reports in cases of sexual assault in order to protect the victim’s identity.
  5. Lake Superior College normally requires a written complaint from someone to begin the investigation process. Confidential reporting from victims and/or witnesses will be allowed in some cases (example: a situation presenting clear danger to the victim and/or the College Community, sexual assault). The administration operates within the normal procedures of known/should have known issues.
  6. Persons filing a complaint will be provided a copy of the College’s Complaints Policy. The Complaints Policy is also available in the Student Handbook.
  7. All employees who become aware of an allegation of violation of College policy, Student Code of Conduct, civil or criminal law should report the allegation to their supervisor and the appropriate administrator. The following people with significant responsibility for student and campus activities (not including counselors) must report potential criminal activity of which they are aware: President, Admissions Director, Affirmative Action/Sexual Harassment Officers, Registrar, Associate Registrar, Placement Director, Student Accessibility Services Director, Financial Aid Director, Financial Aid Officer, Advisors, Student Life Director, Multicultural Services Advisor, Student Support Services Director, Human Resources Director, Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs, Vice President of Finance and Administration, Deans, Director of Counseling and Advising Services, Recruiter, Director of the Center for Student Development, Director of Health Services, Director of Public Information, as well as any assistants and associates. Faculty members will also be considered campus security authorities when they serve as advisors to student groups, clubs, organizations, or run internship programs, study-abroad activities, or other programs that add to the level of responsibility faculty members have for student and campus activities. These individuals should not attempt to investigate, but should instead report and allow the appropriate administrator to begin investigatory proceedings as deemed necessary and appropriate.
  8. All persons in the Lake Superior College community are encouraged to assist anyone in reporting alleged criminal activity by contacting the Security Department and/or the local police department, as well as providing assistance in making a report.
  9. Student organizations with control of any facility are encouraged to report safety and security concerns to Student Services.
  10. Counselors are required to provide statistical information relating to crimes on campus but may continue to honor the confidentiality of victims.

C. College’s Response to Reports

  1. All allegations will be investigated. These investigations may be made in conjunction with the Duluth Police Department or the St. Louis County Sheriff Department.
  2. The Director of Security or designee, in conjunction with the appropriate police agency, will classify reports according to the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Definitions.
  3. When alleged perpetrators are identified as students, the case will be investigated and appropriate disciplinary action will occur. Criminal investigation, arrest and prosecution can occur independently, before, during or after the campus judicial process in accordance with the procedures outlined in the College’s Code of Conduct.
  4. The College will issue a timely warning to members of the campus community in cases of reported murder, sex offenses, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, motor vehicle theft and any hate crimes (manifesting evidence of prejudice based on race, religion, sexual orientation or ethnicity) Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs (or the Vice President’s designee) determines there is a continuing threat to the College community. In such cases, warnings will be published through campus bulletins and postings.

POLICIES CONCERNING SAFETY OF AND ACCESS TO CAMPUS FACILITIES

A. Personal Security Recommendations

  1. You are the primary person responsible for protecting yourself by being aware of your surroundings and taking appropriate steps in preventing crime from happening.
  2. Call for an Escort! The Security Department is available to provide escort services during regular campus business hours. Patrol and escort services are normally available from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call (218) 733-6911 or (218) 522-1019.
  3. Protect your property.
    1. Personal property (purses, briefcases, bookbags, calculators, etc.) should never be left unattended. Take such items with you if you are leaving the office, classroom, or commons areas.
    2. Lock your door whenever you leave your office. Always lock your car doors.
    3. Protect all valuables in your office. Do not leave valuables in plain view.
    4. Take valuables home with you during vacations.
    5. Park your bike where you can keep an eye on it if possible. Always lock your bike. There are several good anti-theft devices available. Case-hardened heavy locks and chains afford the best protection.
  4. Protect your automobile.
    1. Always lock your car doors and never leave your keys in the vehicle.
    2. Try to park your car in a well-lit area.
    3. Avoid leaving property where it is visible.
  5. Protect yourself at night.
    1. Avoid walking alone at night.
    2. Refrain from taking shortcuts. Walk where there is plenty of light and traffic.
    3. Call for an escort (218) 733-6911 or (218) 522-1019.
  6. Protect yourself walking and jogging.
    1. Avoid walking and jogging alone after dark. If you must travel alone at night, contact Campus Security (218) 733-6911 office or (218) 522-1019 cell to escort you to your on-campus destination.
    2. Walk along well-lit routes.
    3. Be alert to your surroundings. If you suspect you are being followed, run in a different direction, go to the other side of the street and yell for help, or head quickly for a lighted area or a group of people.
    4. Have your keys ready when returning to your vehicle and keep your personal or valuable items concealed and close to your body.
  7. Help us protect you.
    1. Watch for suspicious persons in and around college buildings and in parking lots. Do not pursue them. If you see any suspicious activity or people on or near the campus, call Campus Security (733-6911 or (218) 522-1019) or the Duluth Police Department (218) 723-3434.
      1. Do not assume that what you observe is an innocent activity or that it has already been reported.
      2. Do not assume the person is a visitor or College staff member that you have not seen before.
    2. Suspicious people may be:
      1. Loitering about at unusual hours and locations; running, especially if something of value is being carried.
      2. Exhibiting unusual mental or physical symptoms. Person(s) could be under the influence of drugs or otherwise needing medical or psychiatric assistance.
      3. Carrying property that might be suspicious, depending on the circumstances, going from room to room trying door handles.
    3. Report all thefts and property loss immediately to the Security Department (218) 733-6911 or (218) 522-1019.

B. Security Considerations of Campus Facilities

  1. Building access and maintenance
    1. The Lake Superior College campuses are for the use of the students, faculty, staff and their escorted guests and those on official business with Lake Superior College. All others are subject to being charged with trespassing.
    2. Access to campus buildings is limited to normal business hours.
    3. Students, faculty, staff and visitors are encouraged to report needed repairs to the Maintenance Department for all areas of the College.
  2. Policies and procedures for safe access to buildings
    1. Keys are issued to authorized faculty, staff and students only.
    2. Exterior building doors should not be blocked open when the doors are locked.
    3. Building evacuation is mandatory for all fire alarms.
    4. The buildings are normally open as follows: 6:00-10:00 Monday-Friday, 7:00-4:00 Saturday (during the school year – not summer). The buildings may be open at other times for special events. Employees and students in buildings after normal working hours should have a College or other ID card in their possession and present the ID when requested.
    5. Faculty or staff who appear to be the last persons in a building should ask unauthorized people to leave the premises or contact Maintenance (218) 733-7625. The building should be secured when the last employee leaves. In buildings that have outside windows, employees should close and lock them before leaving the building.
    6. On-campus telephones are located in most building hallways for emergency calls. These telephones are also capable of dialing 911.
    7. Problems related to people in buildings after hours should be reported to the Maintenance Supervisor at (218) 733-7625 or the local police department immediately.

POLICIES CONCERNING LAW ENFORCEMENT

A. Campus Security is authorized, when appropriate, to make a citizen’s arrest. Typically, such arrests are made only in the presence of a police officer.

B. Campus Security works closely with the local police departments, St. Louis County Sheriff’s Department, and State and Federal law enforcement agencies to track and respond to campus criminal activity.

C. Report all crime immediately. All criminal activity on campus should be reported immediately to Campus Security (733-6911 office/ (218) 522-1019 cell) and/or the police department (723-3434).

  1. Lake Superior College will assist the complainant in completing criminal reports.
  2. Lake Superior College will accept third party reports in certain cases, like sex offenses. Lake Superior College prefers to receive reports from the victim as the detail is often more accurate when received directly from the victim.
  3. Maintain all physical evidence. Do not wash off or destroy what may be critical evidence.

D. Report as much detail as possible to ensure accurate reporting. If you are a victim of a crime, your immediate recall of the event is often the best. Write down as much information as you can remember after a crime. If you cannot identify the perpetrator by name, try to recall as many details as possible, including:

  1. Gender;
  2. Approximate age;
  3. Height/build;
  4. Description of face including eye color, hair color, hair style (short, curly, etc.), jaw, nose;
  5. Dress/clothing;
  6. Facial hair;
  7. Glasses;
  8. Distinguishing marks, including scars;
  9. Distinguishing gait;
  10. Voice.

E. Information about level 3 sex offenders may be found at the Minnesota Department of Corrections website. The Duluth Police Department may provide information about level 2 sex offenders, 723-3434.

PROGRAMS TO EDUCATE LAKE SUPERIOR COLLEGE COMMUNITY REGARDING SECURITY

A. Educational Programming on Campus

  1. Lake Superior College encourages students and employees to be responsible for their own security and the security of others.
  2. Campus Security provides assistance in presenting programs on campus security and safety. Campus Security develops and presents educational programs in the area of crime prevention, sexual assault awareness, personal safety, etc. Campus Security staff work with local police departments, and the Sexual Assault Program in presenting needed programs.
  3. The Lake Superior College Student Services Department provides staff to aid students in coping with alcohol and drug abuse.

MONITORING AND RECORDING ACTIVITY AT OFF-CAMPUS LOCATIONS

A. All Lake Superior College recognized organizations that are off-campus will be monitored by college representatives. Just because a facility or organization is located off-campus does not mean that activity at that location is not monitored.

B. Lake Superior College includes off-campus student organizations’ crime statistics in its annual report as part of the crime at Lake Superior College.

POLICY REGARDING THE ILLEGALITY OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES ON CAMPUS AND ENFORCEMENT OF UNDER-AGE DRINKING LAWS

A. Lake Superior College forbids the consumption, possession, manufacture, sale, transportation or furnishing of alcoholic beverages on campus. Lake Superior College also forbids the maintenance of unlawful drinking places on campus. This prohibition of possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages on campus applies regardless of age. The only exception is authorized use for special (non-student) functions. Only the President may authorize such programming use.

B. Lake Superior College enforces college policy and Minnesota drinking laws, including the prohibition of use by persons under 21 years of age. Possession, consumption, or being in the presence of alcohol on campus is prohibited by Lake Superior College and may result in a student disciplinary action and/or law enforcement involvement.

C. If the accused is not cooperative or is underage, the local police may be called to assist.

POLICY REGARDING THE ILLEGALITY OF DRUGS ON CAMPUS AND THE ENFORCEMENT OF FEDERAL AND STATE DRUG LAWS

A. Lake Superior College forbids the possession, use or sale of illegal drugs (other than by a doctor’s prescription) on campus. This includes, but is not limited to, possession, sale, use, being in the presence of, growing, manufacturing and making of narcotic drugs.

B. Lake Superior College enforces college policy and Minnesota and federal drug laws regarding the use, possession, and sale of illegal drugs.

DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE EDUCATION PROGRAMS

A. The purpose of this policy is to set forth the College’s policy regarding alcohol and other drug use, including unlawful drug use and abuse in the workplace in accordance with the Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988 (Public Law 100-690, Title V, Subtitle D) and Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 (Public Law 101-226). A copy of the Drug and Alcohol Free Campus Policy may be obtained from the Office of the Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs or on the College’s website.

B. The College recognizes the reality of chemical dependency and is aware of its presence in the Lake Superior College community. As a safeguard against this dependency, campus prevention programs are provided to the Lake Superior College community.

C. The College encourages and provides reasonable assistance to any student, faculty or staff member who seeks information on chemical dependency or treatment for chemical dependency. Student Services personnel provide information and referrals for those seeking help with substance abuse.

POLICY REGARDING SEXUAL ASSAULT PROGRAMS AND PROCEDURES

A. Policy

  1. Lake Superior College’s policy on Sexual Harassment/Sexual Violence is governed by the Minnesota State system’s policy. In support of the system policy, Lake Superior College reaffirms the policy that sexual abuse and harassment will not be tolerated. Every effort will be made to assure that all members of the College community are provided an atmosphere free from sexual abuse and harassment. To prevent sexual abuse and harassment, educational efforts will be undertaken to inform employees and students of their responsibilities regarding such behavior, how to identify and eliminate potential sexual abuse and harassment and what steps can be taken if instances of sexual abuse and harassment are experienced.
  2. Lake Superior College conducts a number of programs aimed at preventing sexual offenses and making the community aware of the potential of such crimes. These programs include nightly security patrols of the campus, providing escorts, and inspecting the campus for potentially dangerous areas including campus lighting and shrubbery. In addition, educational programs concerning sexual assault awareness are provided by Campus Security.
  3. A guiding principle in the reporting of sexual assault is to avoid re-victimizing the sexual assault survivor by forcing the person into any plan of action. Sexual assault survivors may contact any one of several Lake Superior College departments or community services for assistance. The following resources provide immediate aid or on-going consultation for survivors of sexual assault.

Counseling: (218) 733-6844

Sexual Assault Program: (218) 726-1442

Crisis Line: (218) 726-1931

  1.  Information about level 3 sex offenders may be found at the Minnesota Department of Corrections website. The Duluth Police Department (218) 723-3434 may provide information about level 2 sex offenders

B. Procedure

  1. Contact Campus Security (218) 733-6911 or (218) 522-1019. Please remember it is most important to preserve evidence. Do not bathe, douche, use the toilet, or change clothing. Note everything about the location. If you have been raped, you should seek medical attention immediately regardless of whether you report the matter to the police.
  2. Campus Security (218) 733-6911 or (218) 522-1019 is the office of official record for reports of sexual assault, as it is in all reported law violations. Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to contact the Campus Security to report any information regarding assaults.
  3. Every attempt is made to maintain the anonymity of the sexual assault survivor. Every attempt will be made not to release names to the media. Unless requested by the sexual assault survivor, names and addresses of survivors are released to the local police department. Campus Security will attempt to provide support and advice for sexual assault survivors. Each report of sexual assault will be investigated in order to provide better protection to the survivor of a sexual assault and all members of the campus community. Sexual assault survivors should be aware of the need of the College to release information regarding the fact that an assault has occurred for the protection and safety of others.
  4. Sexual assault survivors have the right to have reports made anonymously (third party) to the local police department. The College will assist the survivor in making this report if the survivor so wishes. In these situations, the name of the complainant will not be forwarded. Third party reports may prevent the College and the police department from actively investigating the criminal activity.
  5. Counseling and medical services are available both on and off campus.
If you are the victim of a sexual assault, Lake Superior College encourages you to contact one of more of the following:
Counseling Offices Sexual Harassment Officer Health Services
(218) 733-6844

Wade Gordon, Director, Diversity and Student Support Services

(218) 733-7656

[email protected]

 (218) 733-1092
  1. If the Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs (or a designee) determines that a threat continues to exist for the community, information about the reported sexual assault will be reported to the campus community whether reported by a sexual assault survivor or through a third party report. As much detail as possible regarding location, date and time of the assault, and any information that might help identify the assailant will be reported. The Office of the Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs will inform the campus community of the reported sexual assault by posters, appropriate notices, campus bulletins, and/or local media.
  2.  Each report will be taken as presented by the complainant. Appropriate criminal classifications will be determined after a review of all facts by City Police and/or Sheriff’s Department personnel.
  3.  The College will take appropriate action to safeguard the alleged survivor and, at the same time, protect the rights of the alleged perpetrator.
  4.  The College will normally not take any disciplinary action against a member of the campus community without a written complaint and the assistance of the complainant in the disciplinary process unless the College determines there is a clear danger to the victim or the College community.

C. Procedures for Campus Disciplinary Action for Sex Offenses

  1.  The College disciplinary process is an option for any person wishing to report a case of student misconduct. In order for Lake Superior College to proceed, a written complaint (whether by the victim or a third party) must be filed with the Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs. If the complaint is criminal in nature, it will also be forwarded to law enforcement.
  2.  There are different standards of proof in the College conduct proceeding than in the possible criminal action. The College conduct proceeding determines whether the accused’s status as a student will be altered, whereas the criminal process determines if there will be limitations on the accused’s liberty. As there are different standards and the purpose of each proceeding is different, Lake Superior College encourages students who are the victims of sexual assault to go forward with the College process.
  3. Both the accuser and the accused are entitled to have an advocate present during the disciplinary proceeding. This person may not, however, speak for the accused/accuser or ask questions of witnesses.
  4. Both the accuser and the accused have the right to call a reasonable number of witnesses during the investigation to testify on their behalf. The witnesses may be asked questions by the other party.
  5. Both the accuser and the accused shall be informed of the outcome of the College disciplinary proceeding concerning the complaint of sexual offense. This information should not be disclosed to the public generally.
  6. Sanctions following a College disciplinary proceeding include, but are not limited to, expulsion, suspension and eviction from student housing.