Table of Contents

  1. Jeanne Clery Act
  2. 2008 Police Services Highlights
  3. Policy Information
  4. Sexual Assault Information
  5. Victim Rights and Resources
  6. On-Campus Missing Student Procedures
  7. Sex Offender Registration
  8. Safety and Crime Prevention
  9. Access to Campus Facilities
  10. Reporting Crimes and Suspicious Activities
  11. Daily Crime Log
  12. "Timely Warnings"
  13. Press Releases and Media Information
  14. Emergency Preparedness
  15. Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention
  16. Crime Statistics
  17. Completion Rates

Jeanne Clery Act —
2008⁄2009 Annual Security Report

Dear Friends:

In compliance with the 1998 “Jeanne Clery Act” and California Education Code section 67380, I am pleased to present this year's Jeanne Clery Act Annual Security Report. Enclosed you will find information about key institutional policies, personal safety and crime prevention information, how to report suspicious and criminal activities, and required Clery Act crime statistics for the last three calendar years. In addition to required information, our report this year also includes some highlights of the hours and types of advanced and specialized training our police officers have received along with some statistics regarding direct service calls and community outreach we have provided throughout the past year.

We are proud of our efforts and on-going work with our community to maintain the safest environment possible for all to work and learn at Sonoma State University. We understand that a successful crime prevention and outreach program is one that encourages the cooperation and collaboration of the entire community. Not only do we appreciate your assistance in reporting suspicious activities, we welcome any comments you may have that might improve current programs or generate new ideas.

Throughout the year, Police & Parking Services provides emergency response to all police, fire, and medical emergencies, personal safety and crime prevention presentations on numerous topics, online delivery of timely warnings, crime alerts, crime prevention and community resource information, and remain involved in the planning process for construction projects to ensure that facilities are designed with safety in mind. We also continue the process of providing updated materials and training to University personnel in required emergency preparedness procedures and responses.

We wish everyone a safe educational experience at Sonoma State University, and we appreciate your continued support. Thank you.

Chief Nate Johnson, EdD

What is the Jeanne Clery Disclosure Act?

The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, codified at 20 USC 1092 (f) as a part of the Higher Education Act of 1965, is a federal law that requires colleges and universities to disclose certain timely and annual information about campus crime and security policies. All public and private post secondary educational institutions participating in federal student aid programs are required to comply with it. The law, originally enacted by Congress in 1990 as the Campus Security Act, was initiated by Howard and Connie Clery after their daughter Jeanne was tragically murdered at Lehigh University in 1986. Amendments to the Act in 1998 renamed it in memory of Jeanne Clery. The Clery Act requires colleges and universities to publish an annual report every year by October 1st that contains 3 years of crime statistics and certain policy statements including sexual assault policies which assure basic victims’ rights, the law enforcement authority of campus police, and where the students should go to report crimes. The complete text of the Clery Act and the U.S. Department of Education regulations are available on the Security On Campus, Inc. web site. SSU Police and Parking Services is responsible for gathering crime statistics and providing safety information to all students, staff, faculty, visitors, and prospective students and employees.

The annual security report for Sonoma State University includes statistics for the previous three years concerning reported crimes that occurred on campus, in certain non-campus buildings or property owned or controlled by Sonoma State University, and on public property within, or immediately adjacent to and accessible from the campus. Formal recognition of student organizations does not extend beyond the University, therefore, there are no reported incidents related to off-campus activities of student organizations. We do not provide security at off-campus events. The report also includes institutional policies concerning campus safety and security, such as policies concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault and other matters.

SSU Police Services is aware that crimes may go unreported to law enforcement and encourages employees of the University, who have significant responsibility for students and student activities, to report any crimes that they may have become aware of in their daily contact with students to Police Services. As a reminder to those employees who have significant responsibility for students, a reporting form is sent out annually for collection and recording of accurate statistics. Administrators, Deans, Directors, Department Heads, Faculty Advisors and Student Academic Advisors, Student Affairs and Activities Advisors and Coordinators, and Athletic Coaches are all included in the notification. Classroom faculty (except for Advisors), Physicians, Psychologists, and most Clerical Staff are examples of employees who are not required to report under the Clery Act. All reports to Police Services can be made confidentially and anonymously in accordance with the reporting person’s wishes. Crime prevention and personal safety information and pamphlets are available in Police Services and on the Police Services web site. The Student Health Center, Counseling and Psychological Services, Residential Life and SAFE, also maintain related information and pamphlets, and this information can also be located in various student and staff publications throughout the campus.

Authority and Minimum Training Standards of Law Enforcement Personnel

Sonoma State University Police Services is a fully accredited law enforcement agency. The Department employs sworn peace officers who are vested with full arrest authority in the State of California, pursuant to California Penal Code section 830.2(c) and Education Code section 89560. Sonoma State University police officers meet the requirements specified by the California Peace Officer's Standards and Training Commission, which are mandated for all sworn California law enforcement officers.

Sonoma State University police officers have received formal basic training in a regional police academy, and upon hire must additionally complete 14 weeks of in-service field training, and successfully complete a 12 month probationary period. All SSU police officers are trained in the use of firearms and all weapons that are carried. Throughout each year officers participate in regular training designed to enhance and maintain skills and gain specialized skills.

In the 2008 training cycle, SSU Police Officers collectively attended 588 hours of advanced officer training courses. This equates to nearly 15 weeks of training hours, or 3.5 months of professional and specialized training hours that allows SSU Police Services to provide the high quality of law enforcement service our community has come to expect. The courses included the following topics: Sexual assault and domestic violence investigations and update, interview and interrogation, background investigations, TASER™ training, firearms training and requalification, legal update, emergency vehicle operations, arrest and control techniques, active shooter response, financial crimes, Clery Act updates, evidence protocols, CLETS and DMV law enforcement access and use protocols, advanced officer survival, critical response unit training, police management course, and vehicle pursuit driving updates and review.

Sonoma State University Police Services' primary jurisdiction includes all property owned and operated by SSU, including adjacent public streets. However, SSU officers' arrest authority may extend to any place within the State of California. In cases involving on-campus and off-campus jurisdictions, or when the resources of another agency can be used to facilitate the resolution of an investigation, SSU Police Services cooperates fully with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies and maintains operational agreements that comply with the Kristin Smart Campus Safety Act with the City of Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety and the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office.

Philosophy and Operating Creed

In addition to enforcement action and investigations, Police Services actively participates in the Campus Oriented Partnership Policing Strategy (COPPS). Officers are trained in specialized areas of expertise. These specialists conduct presentations to include sexual assault education and prevention, substance abuse, drug and alcohol education and prevention, defensive driving, CPR and first aid, personal safety and crime prevention, active shooter and emergency preparedness training, identity theft prevention, building and office safety, alarm systems, and bicycle safety. Town Hall Meetings are conducted throughout the year to provide information and dialogue between Police Services and our community on topics of safety and to solicit input from the campus community on how we can better serve you. Community Service Specialists are non-sworn uniformed personnel assigned to patrol specific areas or work special events. Police Services also sponsors and supervises Criminal Justice student interns who provide nighttime escorts and help ensure the safety and security of the campus by reporting any suspicious activity to Police Services.

Police Services also sponsors free bicycle registration and property identification programs. The community is encouraged to engrave and record an identification number on items of value in their home or residence. Engravers are available for check out at Police Services.

Police and Parking Services 2008 Highlights of Service and Statistics

During 2008, Police and Parking Services remained active and prepared to respond to calls from our community for service and assistance. The department handled approximately 43,000 calls which generated 21,555 specific incidents that required response. We made a total of 220 arrests; generated 541 police reports; provided approximately 75 Emergency Preparedness presentations throughout the community, provided 35 presentations throughout the community on various crime prevention and personal safety topics; presented safety information at all new student and parent orientations; coordinated and conducted a university practical active shooter and emergency operations center exercise; provided a town hall meeting on sexual assault resources and prevention; and provided police coverage at 51 special events. Our commitment to the SSU community, coupled with the partnerships we maintain within our community, directly contribute to the sense of safety and the very safe University environment that our students, residents, and employees have come to enjoy as they live, work, and learn at SSU.

Policy for Reporting the Annual Disclosure of Crime Statistics

SSU Police Services prepares this report to comply with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act. This report is a collaborative and comprehensive effort that includes the cooperation of law enforcement agencies surrounding the SSU campus and off-site properties, the Student Affairs and Enrollment Management Division, Office of the Vice President of Student Affairs, Judicial Affairs, Employee Relations and Compliance, and Residential Life. Each entity provides crime statistics and/or information on their educational efforts and programs to comply with the Act.

To comply with the Act, we collect crime statistics from law enforcement agencies with concurrent law enforcement jurisdiction or jurisdiction surrounding the SSU campus, and off-site properties or facilities owned or utilized by SSU, to include public property immediately adjacent to campuses and facilities. These law enforcement agencies provide crime statistics they have collected for crimes occurring on campus properties or a radius around the properties requested. These statistics may include crimes that have occurred in private businesses and residences and is not required by Clery Act reporting. SSU does not have any off or on campus fraternity or sorority houses. Every paid part-time, full-time, and intermittent employee receives a notice with their paycheck/notice of deposit, that informs them of the security report, a description of the contents, information regarding the availability of the report on the Internet, the electronic address to access the report, and a statement on how to obtain a paper copy, if desired. Employees and students also receive this same information when inquiring about the application process for admission or employment via the Internet. Additionally, notices regarding the existence of the Security Report, a brief description of its contents, information regarding the availability of the report on the Internet with the electronic address to access the report, and a statement on how to obtain a paper copy, if desired are included annually in University-wide e-mail, in several University publications, on the Employee Services web site, and on the Police Services web site to inform students, employees and prospective students and employees about the existence of the Security Report, the electronic address to access the report, and information on how to obtain a paper copy, if desired. Copies of the report may also be obtained at SSU Police Services located in Verdot Village on the SSU Campus at 1801 East Cotati Avenue, Rohnert Park, CA 94928, or by calling Police Services at (707) 664-4444.

Assistance for Victims of Sexual Assaults

SSU and Police Services is committed to ensuring that students, employees, and visitors who have been sexually assaulted are provided treatment, medical, and counseling assistance and information, and that they are treated with sensitivity, dignity and confidentiality. Every effort is made to ensure that our educational environment promotes and assists prompt reporting of sexual assaults and provides compassionate support services for survivors. Prompt reporting of sexual assaults is encouraged. Sexual assault includes, but is not necessarily limited to, acts or attempted acts of rape, forced sodomy, forced oral copulation, rape by foreign object, and sexual battery.

Sonoma State University will not tolerate sexual assault in any form, including sexual assaults formerly referred to as 'acquaintance rape.' Where there is probable cause to believe that a student, faculty, or staff member has violated the University's Sexual Assault Policy, and with the consent of the victim, all complaints will be investigated promptly and thoroughly. Even if the victim or criminal justice authorities choose not to prosecute, the University can pursue disciplinary action. If the incident involves someone under 18 years old, the appropriate legal guidelines will be followed. Incidents involving non-members of the University community will be processed according to local and state laws. Refer to SSU Policy and Procedures for further descriptions and information. The Sexual Assault policy can be found on the University Affairs web site or by contacting University Affairs or the Vice President for Student Affairs.

The University implements university-wide prevention education through Residential Life, Student Affairs, Police Services, Student Health Center, Counseling and Psychological Services, and the student advocacy/peer educator group called Student Advocates for Education (SAFE). Sexual discrimination complaints should be directed to the Employee Relations and Compliance Office at (707) 664-4470.

Possible sanctions to be imposed following the final determination of an on-campus disciplinary procedure regarding rape, acquaintance rape or other sex offenses, forcible or non-forcible, may be one or any combination of the following:

Reporting the Sexual Assault

Sexual assaults should be reported to the law enforcement agency having jurisdiction over the location where the crime occurred. Sexual assaults that occur on campus or any property owned or utilized by SSU should be reported to SSU Police. When the crime occurs off campus, SSU Police will assist the survivor by facilitating contact with the law enforcement agency having jurisdiction over the location where the crime occurred. Reports may be made anonymously; however, California laws protect the name and identifying information of sexual assault survivors from being released to the public if they request that it not be released.

Procedures for Reporting Sexual Assaults

Persons who believe that they are victims of sexual assault, including witnesses thereto, may report and discuss the matter with one of the following University employees:

  • A University Psychologist in CAPS at (707) 664-2153
  • Employee Relations & Compliance at (707) 664-4470
  • The Residential Life Coordinator (for on-campus residents) at (707) 664-4033
  • Student Health Center professional staff (a doctor or nurse) at (707) 664-2921
  • Any Police Officer at (707) 664-4444 or 9-1-1

We encourage everyone to report on-campus sexual assaults directly to Police Services at (707) 664-4444. However, victims are not required to pursue prosecution just because they report a crime to police. The reporting of sexual assault to the police, even if you do not want to prosecute, may prevent others from being victims and safeguard your rights for future prosecution.

During the course of the investigation, feel free to ask the officer any questions you may have about the procedures being followed. You have the right to request that your name NOT become a matter of public record. The officer will assist you in contacting an advocate of your choice for support and assistance during the investigative process. An advocate can accompany and support you at sexual assault medical exams, and at police and district attorney interviews. United Against Sexual Assault advocates will further help you with problems that arise with your family, friends, school, work, or housing. Advocates can answer many of your questions, inform you of your options, advocate for your rights, and connect you to counseling and victim funds.

Victim Rights

As a victim of any crime, you have the right to be treated with respect, dignity and courtesy. You also have a right to file a complaint and receive services regardless of the relationship between you and the suspect. You may also have an advocate for support throughout the entire investigative process. You should expect an explanation about all procedures and forms.

In sexual assault cases, the accuser and the accused are entitled to the same opportunities to have others present during a campus disciplinary proceeding and both shall be informed of the outcome of any campus disciplinary proceeding brought alleging the sexual assault.

Sonoma State University encourages all members of the campus community who believe they are victims of sexual assault to immediately report the incident to the police agency where the crime occurred. Timely reporting to the police is an important factor in successful investigation and prosecution of sexual assault cases.

Counseling and Psychological Services

Police Services works closely with Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). We work as a team in dealing with sensitive situations, and we refer persons to CAPS on a regular basis. Both police officers and psychologists have received training to assist victims of crime, and the psychologists encourage and support their clients who wish to report crimes to Police Services to prevent future crimes and help safeguard the ability for future prosecution. CAPS counseling sessions are considered privileged and the holder of the privilege is the client. If a client does not want a police report taken, crime information can still be forwarded to Police at the request of the client for general patrol information to possibly assist in preventing future crimes. The psychologists do not disclose information to Police Services without the consent of the client, unless there is an immediate threat to safety. Any reporting of statistics to comply with the Jeanne Clery Act is done by reporting numbers and not names, so the information provided by clients remains completely confidential. All services through CAPS are available to students at no cost. The staff consists of professionally trained and licensed psychologists. CAPS psychologists are also available for consultations regarding distressed or disruptive students and can be reached directly at (707) 664-2153.

The following is a list of some of the law enforcement agencies, SSU departments, and off-campus support services that provide a variety of support options and resources for survivors of sexual assault.

Additional Resources for Victims

Sonoma County Law Enforcement Agencies
On-Campus Support Resources
Community Resources

Legal Options

Any person who has been sexually assaulted has several legal options: criminal prosecution against the assailant; and/or civil prosecution against the assailant; and/or the SSU disciplinary procedure if the assailant is an employee or student.

Criminal Prosecution

Notification or reporting to the police agency having jurisdiction over the location where the crime or attempted crime occurred begins the criminal prosecution.

SSU Police Officers will facilitate medical and counseling services, referrals, and evidence collection and information. You will be interviewed at a location that is as comfortable as possible for you, and will be allowed or offered an advocate or advocates to accompany you during all aspects of the investigation. Under California law, a sexual assault survivor’s name and any identifying information can’t be released without the survivor’s written consent. The protection of the survivor’s name and any identifying information will be of the highest priority. A survivor’s decision to prosecute does not necessarily have to be made during initial contact with officers and the survivor’s decision determines officers’ subsequent investigation protocol. Police Officers have legal authority to arrest the assailant as appropriate to evidence and the investigation and to forward the case to the District Attorney’s Office for criminal prosecution upon completion of the investigation. SSU Police will also help ensure the survivor of sexual assault has access to an advocate from the court, the department, community agencies, and/or friends or family of their choosing to support them through the criminal prosecution process if the survivor decides to prosecute the assailant.

Civil Prosecution

Survivors of sexual assault can consult an attorney about initiating a suit in civil court against their assailant for damages. The purpose of a civil suit is to compensate the survivor for the wrong done to them. A civil action can be brought against the assailant regardless of the decision to criminally prosecute.

On-Campus Residence Halls Missing Student Procedures

If a member of the University Community has reason to believe that a student who resides in on-campus residence halls is missing, he or she should immediately notify SSU Police Services at (707) 664-4444. Upon receiving the report, SSU Police will initiate an investigation.

After initial investigation of the missing person report, should SSU Police determine that the student is missing and has been missing for 24 hours or more, SSU Police will notify Sonoma County law enforcement agencies via the California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS) and enter the student into the law enforcement Missing Person System (MUPS) no later than 24 hours after the student is determined to be missing. The Office of Residential Life and/or the Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management will notify the student’s emergency contact, if one has been provided, no later than 24 hours after the student is determined to be missing. If the missing student is under the age of 18 and is not an emancipated individual, SSU Police will notify the student’s parent or legal guardian immediately after SSU Police determine that the student has been missing for 24 hours or more.

In addition to registering an emergency contact, students living in the residence halls have the option to confidentially, through the Housing Office, identify the individual they wish to have contacted by SSU in the event the student is determined to be missing for 24 hours or more. If the student has identified such an individual, that is the individual who will be notified by the Office of Residential Life and/or the Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management no later than 24 hours after the student has been determined to be missing.

California Sexual Offender Registration

Sexual Offender Registration laws require convicted sex offenders to register their status with our police department if they are enrolled, residing, attending, carrying on a vocation (i.e. contractor or vendor on campus), or working with or without compensation for SSU.

Police Services does not maintain a public database of registrants at SSU nor does California Department of Justice make public sex offender information specific to a college or university. Public information that is available about sex offenders in California is on the California Department of Justice Megan's Law web site. Sex offenders can be queried by name, or by their residence zip code, county, city, or address. Additionally, this site has map lookup to view sex offenders within a specified radius of a location, such as within a specific radius around your residence, place of work, or around SSU.

Safety and Crime Prevention

Although all SSU police officers participate in the COPPS program, the Crime Prevention Program includes providing written information and presenting instruction for personal and property safety. A description of programs and services offered includes:

  • Safety Presentations at new student and employee orientations
  • Comprehensive crime prevention, personal safety, bicycle safety and pedestrian safety information and referral information on the Police and Parking Services web site
  • Safety presentations at University 102 classes and in the residential community
  • Drug and Alcohol Awareness Presentations in the residential community
  • Involvement in campus-wide activities promoting alcohol and drug awareness, crime prevention, and health and safety topics to include sexual assault, identity theft, bicycle and pedestrian safety, and personal safety.
  • Crime prevention and personal safety topics to individual departments and areas when requested
  • Emergency Preparedness presentations and information, to include the “Shots Fired” safety information video link on the Police and Parking Services web site
  • Safety Escorts to and from campus buildings, parking lots, and residence halls
  • Fingerprinting by appointment at SSU Police
  • Bicycle Registration and Property ID which includes the ability to check out engravers at SSU Police to engrave personal property of value such as laptops and other electronics.
  • Defensive Driving Classes (for campus personnel) that cover safe driving practices, legal requirements, and best practices
  • “We Tip” phone line
  • Coordination of "Town Hall" meetings on various crime and personal safety topics throughout the year
  • Conducting lighting surveys and recommending improvements for the campus
  • Resource & Safety Information pamphlets on numerous topics

Building, Office-Security and Alarm Systems

Sonoma State University Police maintain, add and change alarm systems and codes for University employees. We also serve as a first point of contact for instructions on and trouble-shooting alarm problems. Problems that cannot be repaired by campus personnel are referred to an outside alarm contractor for servicing. We also work with appropriate administrators to conduct alarm and security studies for new buildings or offices on-campus, including the purchasing of new equipment.

Bicycle Patrol

With Sonoma State University's park-like setting, the combined use of bike, foot, and vehicular patrols is ideal. Depending on staffing availability, the bicycle officer allows for more personal contact and the opportunity for positive feedback of those contacted while on patrol. This person also assists the crime prevention efforts and presentations on general crime prevention, bicycle, and personal safety.

Access to Campus Facilities

SSU academic and administrative buildings are closed and locked nightly after evening classes conclude and reopened each morning before morning classes begin. The Library, Recreation Center and some other locations have specific hours based on their function. It is recognized that there will be an occasional need for after hours and weekend access to buildings. Anyone working late or on weekends should notify SSU Police Services when they enter and leave a building. Although proper identification is always required, after hours access will require additional authorization from the effected department. Access on holidays is treated as weekend access.

Access to University housing is limited to residents, their guests and selected staff. Entry into the Residential Community is monitored on a 24 hour basis cooperatively with on duty Residence Life personnel, to include CSA's and RLC's and SSU Police personnel.

University facilities and grounds are maintained by SSU Facilities Management and are patrolled by police officers. Police officers regularly test the emergency phones and submit work orders for repair if needed. They recommend the trimming of shrubbery for safety reasons, conduct lighting surveys, and report hazardous situations that require attention. We conduct a crime prevention survey/analysis when a crime trend occurs or upon the physical changes of office space and equipment, when requested by an administrator. Many offices, labs, computer rooms and areas of campus have alarms that report a signal directly to Police Services if tampering is present. Many public areas have camera systems that are used to detect and deter criminal activity. Police Services also participates in the review of new building designs and recommend changes that are conducive to preventing crime through environmental design.

Reporting Crimes and Suspicious Activities

Sonoma State University Police Services is currently located at the southern end of Verdot Village. Police Services, similar to law enforcement from your local communities, provides 24-hour law enforcement service, throughout the entire year, including all holidays. In-progress suspicious or criminal acts and other emergencies on campus should be reported directly to Police Services by calling 9-1-1 from any campus phone or by pushing the red button on a “blue-light” campus emergency phone. For business or non-emergency situations, call (707) 664-4444, or x4-4444 from on-campus phones. In emergencies, be prepared to provide the police dispatcher with your name, telephone number, and location, as well as any pertinent information (such as suspect and vehicle description, direction of travel, etc.). In cases involving sexual assaults, crimes may be reported to those listed under Procedures for Reporting Sexual Assaults. You may also report crimes to any University official, particularly at the following locations:

There are emergency phones strategically located throughout the campus that include blue lights for easy visibility. They will automatically connect you to the Police Services Dispatch Center simply by pressing the red button. You can also report information via the "we tip" hotline at (707) 664-2910. We encourage reporting of information to this phone line, rather than not reporting at all. We utilize the information to help plan preventive patrol, town hall forums, and outreach activities to address issues occurring in the community that otherwise might not have been brought to our attention.

Officers are responsible for a vast range of police services, including responding to all reports of crime, suspicious persons, medical emergencies, traffic accidents, fire alarms, actual fires to assist Rancho Adobe Fire District with scene containment, and the enforcement of all federal, state and local laws, and University Regulations. There are always police officers on-duty 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

Our Police Dispatch Center has current “E-911” technology, that captures 911 calls that are placed by a mobile phone within SSU jurisdiction. Occasionally a “911” call from a mobile phone will still divert to the California Highway Patrol (CHP) dispatch center in Benicia, California, thus we advise that SSU community members program the SSU Police telephone number, (707) 664-4444, into mobile phones to expedite response when calling in an emergency situation.

Firearms and Dangerous Weapons

Firearms and other dangerous weapons of any kind are not permitted on campus or in the Residential Community. Intentional use, possession, or sale of firearms or any other dangerous weapon is strictly prohibited on campus by State law.

"Timely Warning" and Crime Alert Bulletins

SSU Police believes that a well-informed community is an integral component in maintaining the safest campuses and facilities possible. It is the practice of SSU to have the Police Chief, and/or designee, confer as necessary and applicable with administrators, legal counsel, and surrounding law enforcement agencies, after a crime is reported to SSU Police that is deemed by the Chief of Police and/or designee to represent a continuing threat to students, staff, faculty, or visitors. Once the determination is reached, the Chief of Police or designee will arrange to disseminate “timely warning” crime alert information as soon as possible and as resources are available, through the Police Services web site and the University e-mail system. Bulletins also include prevention information to assist members of our educational community from becoming a victim of a similar crime. Bulletins shall include, but are not limited to, those crimes that are listed in the Clery Act.

Daily Crime Log

Police Services maintains a daily crime log of all crimes reported to the department. The log is available for viewing at the Police Services web site. Copies of archived daily crime logs are available upon request within 2 business days at SSU Police Services or by calling SSU Police Services at (707) 664-4444.

Press Releases and Media Information

Press releases are posted at the Police and Parking Services web site. Summaries of campus crime incidents are regularly published in the Star student newspaper. Police Services also works in partnership with the Star and Newsbytes (for employees) to publish information related to crime and campus safety issues.

Emergency Preparedness Policies, Evacuation, and Information Training

In 2008, the SSU Emergency Services Program conducted specific emergency evacuation drills. These drills took place in the Library, Administration and Finance, Information Technologies, The School of Education, and the Student Recreation Center. These areas received individual specific training in evacuation procedures tailored to their unique environmental characteristics. Protocols and procedures were issued to strengthen their individual evacuation plans.

In addition, 75 emergency preparedness presentations were given including: Mitigating Active Shooters, New Faculty and Staff Emergency Preparedness Orientation, Building Marshal Training, Student Specific Emergency Training, Faculty and Staff Specific Emergency Training, National Incident Management System, Standardized Emergency Management System, Incident Command System, and Personal Safety in Emergencies.

SSU Emergency preparedness polices, procedures, and resource information is also posted on the web sites for easy access and reference for the community as listed below. Also included is a link to the training video entitled “Shots Fired” for all SSU community members to view at anytime for information on emergency response to active shooters.

Fire Safety

SSU Facilities Management, to include the Boiler Plant and the Director of Energy and Environmental Health and Safety, maintain the on-campus fire systems to include the on-campus residence halls systems. They annually test the fire alarm systems including in the on-campus residence halls and maintain records for repairs, upgrades, and types of alarm activations and outcomes that occur during the year. These offices also work closely with the State Fire Marshal to comply with applicable Fire Codes and mandates. Information on fire alarm activations, fire safety reports, and tests can be obtained upon request by contacting the Director of Environmental Health and Safety or the Facilities Management Office at (707) 664-2317.

Campus Emergency Mass Notification Procedures

The SSU mass emergency notification system will be used to notify the campus community upon the confirmation of a significant on-campus emergency or dangerous situation involving an immediate threat to the health or safety of students, faculty or staff or when a hazardous condition, natural disaster or other critical incident reaches or has the potential for reaching proportions beyond the capacity of routine operations.

Sonoma State University will, without delay, and taking into account the safety of the community, determine the content of the notification and initiate the notification system, unless issuing a notification will, in the professional judgment of responsible authorities, compromise efforts to assist a victim or to contain, respond to, or otherwise mitigate the emergency.

The following personnel have the authority to activate the Emergency Notification system in the event of an emergency/hazardous condition, natural disaster or other critical incident.

In addition to the mass notification system, SSU uses several methods to disseminate emergency information. These methods include:

The Sonoma State University Emergency Plan works in concert with both the California State Emergency Management System (SEMS) as developed by the State Office of Emergency Services (OES) the National Incident Management System (NIMS) as developed by the Department of Homeland Security and the Incident Command System (ICS). Utilizing these systems, the designated Incident Commander will determine and confirm that there is a significant emergency or dangerous situation that warrants the dissemination of a mass emergency notification. Police and Parking Services Personal or the Public Information Officer are tasked with manually signing onto or calling into the Mass Emergency Notification System and setting the parameters and message/content dependent upon the needs of the individual critical incident. The Public Information Officer, Chief of Police, Deputy Chief of Police, Director of Emergency Services and Disaster Planning, or the Manager of Systems Admin. and Support Programs for Police and Parking Services shall in consultation with each other issue the notification.

Emergency Response and Evacuation Test ⁄ Active Shooter Response Exercise

The Sonoma State University Mass Emergency Notification System is tested annually. California State University Executive Order 1013 outlines that all tests shall be documented, including the date, time, and whether it was announced or unannounced. Executive Order 1013 also sets the parameters for annual emergency response drills and/or table tops and for campus evacuation procedures, training and information dissemination.

In April 2008, SSU conducted an announced practical exercise to test emergency response, evacuation, and Emergency Operations Center (EOC) protocols. The full-scale active shooter response exercise included students, staff, faculty, administrators, guests, SSU Police, Rancho Adobe Fire personnel, surrounding local police agencies, and California Highway Patrol (CHP) as participants. The practical exercise lasted approximately 5 hours. The exercise started with simulated shots fired in an occupied building with classes in session during regular weekday hours. Police officers were dispatched to the area, set up a perimeter, and conducted full scale searches of the building for the suspect. A joint Police and Fire command post was also established. Students, faculty and staff were handed information sheets after Police entered the areas searched. The information sheets were titled “What Would You Do?”. This educational piece was used to get the campus community thinking of what they would actually do, depending on where the shooter was in the building or university in relation to their area or classroom, and possible actions they would take such as evacuating the area, sheltering in place, or lastly fighting back if no other option were available.

The Emergency Operations Center was activated using emergency communications. Principle trained members and their alternates checked in and started mitigating the emergency utilizing the National Incident Management System and the Incident Command System. During the EOC exercise, University Affairs staff was issuing real-time mass e-mails updating the community on actions and information being received in the EOC. Rohnert Park, Sebastopol and Cotati Police also participated in the EOC portion of the exercise. The exercise was very successful in practicing emergency response and evacuation procedures for students, faculty, staff, administrators, police and an equally successful tool for EOC Staff.

Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention

SSU Police Services is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for the campus community. Alcohol and other drugs should not interfere with the University's educational mission. All SSU students, faculty members, and staff are subject to local state and federal laws regarding the unlawful possession, distribution, or use of alcohol and illegal drugs. Violators are subject to University discipline, criminal prosecution and/or removal from University housing. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession or use of illegal drugs on the University campus or at any University-sponsored event off-campus is also prohibited. A complete description of these regulations is contained in the Drug Free Workplace and Violence Free Workplace policies. Both policies may be accessed by clicking on the above links to the University Affairs Policy web site and at the Office of Employee Services and the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs.

Police Services strictly enforces Federal and State laws, as well as the University's zero-tolerance policy, for underage drinking and the use and sale of illegal drugs. No one may use illegal substances, or abuse legal substances, including alcohol. Students engaging in the sale of illegal drugs may be expelled. Students found in violation of University alcohol, drug and weapons policies may be subject to academic probation, suspension or expulsion. Parents or guardians may be notified about any disciplinary violation involving alcohol or a controlled substance that has been committed by a student who is under the age of 21.

Employees in violation of the university alcohol and drug policies may be subject to corrective action, dismissal or be required to participate fully in an approved counseling or rehabilitation program. Applicable legal sanctions under federal, state and local statutes for the unlawful possession or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol range from probation, diversion, imprisonment in the county jail, to imprisonment in State Prison. A police officer can confiscate the driver's license from any person, suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, who refuses to take a blood alcohol test.

The use of alcoholic beverages must be in compliance with California State Law and is strictly limited to persons 21 years of age or older. The possession, transportation, and consumption of alcoholic beverages by individuals younger than 21 years of age are strictly prohibited. Alcoholic beverages may not be consumed in public areas and must be concealed and not in plain view when transported in the Residential Community. Residents in the University Residential Community under the age of 21 are not permitted to host guests or residents of any age who are in possession of alcohol in their room or apartment.

Sonoma State University provides useful and informative prevention education programs throughout the year. Police Services enforce violations pro-actively through education and community contacts. Officers provide "Knock and Talks" in the residential community to make residents aware of the policies regarding drug/alcohol use and abuse as well as other personal safety and crime prevention information. Drug and alcohol prevention presentations and information are provided throughout the year at various University 102 classes, upon request for departments and areas, and in conjunction with sponsored campus activities.

A variety of other departments sponsor workshops and lectures on alcohol and drug related issues. These programs are available through the following departments:

ADEP Services

The Alcohol and Drug Education Program (ADEP) at Sonoma State University is a program designed to promote the well being of all members of the SSU educational community by providing individual assessments, educational programs, educational interventions, and referral services for students, staff and faculty. In addition, ADEP is committed to creating an environment within SSU and the surrounding community that supports informed, lawful, and safe decision making regarding alcohol and other drug use.

AlcoholEdu® for College

Sonoma State University requires that every member of the first-year class complete AlcoholEdu® for College, an on-line alcohol prevention program. This is a 3 hour program used by more than 500 colleges and universities around the country. It uses science-based research to educate students about the impact of alcohol on the mind and body. It is designed to help students make well-informed decisions about alcohol and help them to better cope with the drinking behavior of peers.

The Cotati-Rohnert Park-Sonoma State Coalition

Sonoma State University is part of a tri-community coalition with our local public safety departments, county health officials, and community members focused on reducing high-risk and binge drinking in our communities through a combination of policy development, education and enforcement. Some of our accomplishments include the adoption of ordinances that establish performance standards for businesses that sell or serve alcoholic beverages as well as a party ordinance that helps to reduce the impact of loud parties on the community. Additionally, classes for beverage servers, to include applicable SSU employees, are offered that help reduce over-serving, teach methods to check identification and recognize fake identification, and help educate servers about the issues of underage alcohol consumption.

Crime Statistics

It is the University's policy to ensure that crime on campus is accurately reported and analyzed for the development of new programs that will aid in crime prevention. Crime statistics for public property adjacent to the University are requested from and provided in part by Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety and the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office, the two agencies whose jurisdictions incorporate the immediate surrounding properties.

Formal recognition of student organizations does not extend beyond the University; therefore incidents related to off-campus activities of student organizations are not reported. We do not provide security at off-campus events.

Statistics regarding campus disciplinary actions are collected from the offices of Residential Life and the Vice President for Student Affairs. Clery Act statistics forms are also collected from Student Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), the Student Health Center, Athletics, and individuals with significant responsibility for student activities.

Crime statistics are reported pursuant to the guidelines as specified in the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Disclosure Act, as defined under the FBI Uniformed Crime Reporting procedures, and separated by the following geographical areas:

  • On campus
  • In on-campus residence halls (these figures are also included in the statistics for on-campus)
  • On public property adjacent to the University
  • University-owned property located other than on main campus
    • Fairfield Osborne Preserve on Sonoma Mountain
    • Galbreath Wildland Preserve in Mendocino County
    • Undeveloped Land Parcel (approximately 1.1 mile north of Main Campus)

Crime statistics concerning this campus and others can also be found on the United States Department of Education web site.

Crime Definitions

The following crime definitions are used in accordance with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program.

Robbery
The taking or attempting to take anything of value from the care, custody, or control of a person or persons by force or threat of force or violence and/or by putting the victim in fear.
Aggravated Assault
An unlawful attack by one person upon another for the purpose of inflicting severe or aggravated bodily injury. This type of assault usually is accompanied by the use of a weapon or by means likely to produce death or great bodily harm. (It is not necessary that injury result from an aggravated assault when a gun, knife, or other weapon is used which could and probably would result in serious personal injury if the crime were successfully completed.)
Burglary
The unlawful entry of a structure to commit a felony or a theft. For reporting purposes this definition includes: unlawful entry with intent to commit a larceny or felony; breaking and entering with intent to commit a larceny; housebreaking; safecracking; and all attempts to commit any of the aforementioned.
Motor Vehicle Theft
The theft or attempted theft of a motor vehicle. (Classify as motor vehicle theft all cases where automobiles are taken by persons not having lawful access even though the vehicles are later abandoned--including joyriding.)
Weapon Law Violations
The violation of laws or ordinances dealing with weapon offenses, regulatory in nature, such as manufacture, sale, or possession of deadly weapons; carrying deadly weapons, concealed or openly; furnishing deadly weapons to minors; aliens possessing deadly weapons; and all attempts to commit any of the aforementioned.
Drug Abuse Violations
Violations of State and local laws relating to the unlawful possession, sale, use, growing, manufacturing, and making of narcotic drugs. The relevant substances include: opium or cocaine and their derivatives (morphine, heroin, codeine); marijuana; synthetic narcotics (demerol, methadones); and dangerous non-narcotic drugs (barbiturates, benzedrine).
Liquor Law Violations
The violation of laws or ordinances prohibiting: the manufacture, sale, transporting, furnishing, possessing of intoxicating liquor; maintaining unlawful drinking places; bootlegging; operating a still; furnishing liquor to a minor or intemperate person; using a vehicle for illegal transportation of liquor; drinking on a train or public conveyance; and all attempts to commit any of the aforementioned. (Drunkenness and driving under the influence are not included in this definition.)
Arson
Any willful or malicious burning or attempt to burn, with or without intent to defraud, a dwelling house, public building, motor vehicle or aircraft, personal property of another, etc.
Criminal Homicide — Manslaughter by Negligence
The killing of another person through gross negligence.
Criminal Homicide — Murder and Non Negligent Manslaughter
The willful (non-negligent) killing of one human being by another.

The following sex offense definitions are excerpted from the National Incident-Based Reporting System Edition of the uniform Crime Reporting Program.)

Sex Offenses — Forcible
Any sexual act directed against another person, forcibly and/or against that person’s will; or not forcibly or against the person’s will where the victim is capable of giving consent.
Forcible Rape
The carnal knowledge of a person, forcibly and/or against that person’s will; or not forcibly or against the person’s will where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his/her temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity (or because of his/her youth).
Forcible Sodomy
Oral or anal sexual intercourse with another person, forcibly and/or against that person’s will; or not forcibly against the person’s will where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his/her youth or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.
Sexual Assault With An Object
The use of an object or instrument to unlawfully penetrate, however slightly, the genital or anal opening of the body of another person, forcibly and/or against that person’s will; or not forcibly or against the person’s will where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his/her youth or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.
Forcible Fondling
The touching of the private body parts of another person for the purpose of sexual gratification, forcibly and/or against that person’s will; or, not forcibly or against the person’s will where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his/her youth or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental incapacity.
Sex Offenses — Non Forcible
Unlawful, non-forcible sexual intercourse
Incest
Non-forcible sexual intercourse between persons who are related to each other within the degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by law.
Statutory Rape
Non-forcible sexual intercourse with a person who is under the statutory age of consent

Crime Statistics

Major Crimes
   On Campus Residence Halls Non-Campus Public Property
Category 2006 2007 2008 2006 2007 2008 2006 2007 2008 2006 2007 2008
Murder/Non-negligent manslaughter 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Negligent manslaughter 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Sex Offenses– Forcible 1 4 5 0 4 5 0 0 0 3 3 0
Sex Offenses-
Non-forcible 		0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
Robbery 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Aggravated
Assault 		0 2 3 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 4 0
Burglary 15 17 14 11 10 10 1 0 0 0 0 0
Motor vehicle
theft 		4 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 5 0
Arson 3 0 3 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0

Hate Crimes

There were no hate crimes in 2006 or 2007. In 2008, there was one reported racial bias hate crime of vandalism that occurred in the on-campus geographic area.

Special Category - Arrests
  On Campus Residence Halls Non-Campus Public Property
Category 2006 2007 2008 2006 2007 2008 2006 2007 2008 2006 2007 2008
Illegal Weapons Possession 5 5 4 1 3 3 0 0 0 0 1 0
Drug Law Violations 42 35 33 33 22 21 8 0 0 27 17 6
Liquor Law Violations 14 38 24 9 23 9 2 0 0 16 6 3
Special Category - Disciplinary Referrals
   On Campus Residence Halls Non-Campus Public Property
Category 2006 2007 2008 2006 2007 2008 2006 2007 2008 2006 2007 2008
Illegal Weapons Possession 0 2 7 0 1 6 0 0 0 0 0 0
Drug Law Violations 54 48 145 48 45 112 0 0 0 0 2 0
Liquor Law Violations 231 258 362 218 245 352 0 5 0 0 0 0

Note: Residence Hall special category discipline issues are also included in On Campus section.

On Campus
Includes all non-residential hall areas on main University property
Residence Halls
Includes all residence hall buildings and surrounding property
Non-Campus
Includes all SSU-owned properties off campus
Public Property
Includes University perimeter

Completion Rates

Seventy four percent of Sonoma State University’s first-time, full-time students who entered the University in the Fall 2007 with the goal of a degree completed the first year. The completion rate of 74% was based on the 2007 cohort as per Jeanne Clery Act regulations.

For more information, please visit the Office Institutional Research web page or contact Institutional Research by calling (707) 664-2102.