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Policy on Investigation of Violent Felony Offenses and Hate Crimes

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to adopt and implement, pursuant to Section 6434 of Article 129-A of the New York State Education Law, a plan for investigating any Violent Felony Offense or Hate Crime occurring at or on the grounds of New York Medical College.

II. POLICY

Consistent with the College’s commitment to maintaining a safe and secure learning environment, the College shall promptly, efficiently, and thoroughly investigate any Violent Felony Offense or Hate Crime occurring on College-owned, operated, or controlled property.

III. SCOPE

This policy applies to all property owned, operated, or controlled by New York Medical College.

IV. DEFINITIONS

Violent Felony Offense has the same meaning as in subdivision one of section 70.02 of the New York Penal Law.

Hate Crime shall have the same meaning as section 485.05 of the New York Penal Law.

V. PROCEDURES

A. The College shall coordinate all such investigations with local law enforcement agencies, including but not limited to the Mount Pleasant Police Department, Westchester County Police Department, and any other law enforcement agency with jurisdiction over the campus. To facilitate such coordination, the College will endeavor to maintain written agreements with appropriate local law enforcement agencies providing for the prompt investigation of such crimes.

B. The Office of Public Safety will aggressively pursue the prompt, efficient, and thorough investigation resolution of any Violent Felony Offense or Hate Crime on College owned, operated, or controlled property. Following a report of any such offense, the Office of Public Safety shall:

  1. Determine if circumstances require immediate intervention to prevent further injury to victims or to ensure the apprehension of offenders.
  2. If the offender(s) are no longer on campus and the immediate threat has ended, take appropriate measures to provide support to victims and implement established protocols for criminal investigations.
  3. If it is determined that the elements of the offense are consistent with any Violent Felony Offense or Hate Crime as defined under New York State Law, the Office of Public Safety will contact the appropriate law enforcement agency to transfer responsibility for the investigation.
  4. The College will assist the appropriate law enforcement agency in any manner requested until the completion of the investigation.

VI. EFFECTIVE DATE

This policy is effective immediately.

VII. POLICY MANAGEMENT                  

Responsible Executive: Vice President and Chief Counsel
Responsible Office: Director of Public Safety