Sexual Misconduct Policies & Procedures
If you think that you have been raped:
- Get to a safe place. Go to a friend’s room or any other place where people can give you emotional support. Campus Security located at 245 College Street is open 24 hours, 365 days a year and provides a safe and secure environment.
- Get medical attention. See a healthcare professional immediately for treatment of any injuries and for other tests. Do not bathe, shower, urinate, defecate, douche, brush your teeth, or change your clothes before you go. The Bates Health Center can be reached at (207) 786-6199
- Report the rape. Reporting sexual assault can be an empowering act for a survivor and can be an important factor in preventing additional assaults. You can call the Dean’s Office (207) 786-6219 or Security (207) 786-6254 and they will help you decide what to do next. You can also contact the Lewiston Police Department at (207) 784-6421
For immediate assistance, view the Emergency Phone Numbers.
Students have the option of reporting any criminal activity to local and/or other law enforcement authorities, to Bates College Security and Campus Safety, as well as to any other College authorities. Campus authorities will assist the student in making such reports, if she/he so chooses.
Sexual Assault Resource Guide
Resources are available to support and assist individuals who have experienced rape or other forms of sexual violence, most of which are described in greater detail in the “Rape and Sexual Violence” pamphlet.
Students are encouraged to read this pamphlet. All the resources are prepared to help any member of the Bates community who experiences rape, sexual assault, or sexual harassment.
In cases involving rape, the College encourages prompt medical attention for personal protection and the collection of physical evidence which improves the chances of successful prosecution if that option is pursued.
Further, Bates encourages prompt reporting to the police so that the criminal investigation may be initiated. This reporting may be done directly or through the Sexual Assault Crisis Center which is particularly experienced in counseling and in helping victims. The Deans can help arrange this reporting, either on or off campus. Such reporting does not preclude counseling, mediation, or the pursuit of disciplinary action through the College.
Students may request assistance in changing academic and living situations after an alleged sexual assault incident if they so desire. Changes will be made if the requested changes are reasonable and if facilities are available. (See Rape and Sexual Violence Handbook.)