Wayne State encourages individuals to promptly report incidents of sexual misconduct. In addition, individuals are encouraged to report sexual misconduct that may also violate criminal law to both the University and to the Wayne State Police. These processes are not mutually exclusive. A report or complaint may also concern retaliation for filing a complaint or participating in an investigation. WSU expects that all complaints will be filed in good faith.
Reporting to the university does not have a statute of limitations. We encourage prompt reporting of claims to ensure that witnesses and evidence are still available. However, you may report that an incident occurred at any point afterward, and it will be addressed within the ability of the university.
Anyone can make a report by submitting a Sexual Misconduct Incident Report.
Student options for reporting
Consistent with Wayne State's obligations under federal law, Wayne State is required to notify a student who reports having experienced sexual misconduct by another student, a faculty member or a staff member of the university, that
the student has the option to report the matter to law enforcement, to the university, to both, or to neither, as the student may choose.
Where to report if a student chooses to report
To report to the University, submit a Sexual Misconduct Incident Report or contact the Title IX Coordinator at 313-577-9999 or at TitleIX@wayne.edu. The Title IX Coordinator can implement appropriate supportive measures, offer resources, and initiate a prompt, fair and reliable investigation.
To report to the Wayne State Police, contact them at 313-577-2222. The police will provide protection; will assist in taking you to the hospital for appropriate medical treatment; will assist with all necessary steps in the event you wish to initiate a criminal prosecution; and will notify the necessary University staff of the incident if you have not already done so. Where a criminal arrest is made, a Wayne State Police officer will, upon request, accompany the survivor throughout the criminal proceedings (line-ups, preliminary examination, pre-trial conferences, trials, and sentencing).
Additional considerations
Anonymous reports
Anyone wishing to make an anonymous report of sexual misconduct can do so by submitting a report as follows:
Office of Internal Audit reporting form or 313-577-5138
Depending on the extent of information provided by the anonymous report about the incident or the individuals involved, the University's ability to respond may be limited.
The Title IX Coordinator will receive the anonymous report and determine any appropriate steps in light of the available information. Where there is sufficient information, the University will ensure that anonymous reports are reviewed and included for compliance with the Clery Act.
Responsible EmployeesMandatory reporting
Most faculty and staff are considered Responsible Employees and are required to promptly report any knowledge or notice of sexual harassment, sexual assault, stalking, dating violence, and domestic violence to the Title IX office. Such reports may be filed in person, by mail, by email or through the sexual misconduct incident reporting form (preferred).
Consistent with Wayne State's obligations under federal law, Wayne State is required to notify a student who reports having experienced sexual misconduct by another student, a faculty member or a staff member of the university, that
the student has the option to report the matter to law enforcement, to the university, to both, or to neither, as the student may choose.
Regardless of what course of action the student chooses, Wayne State faculty and staff who know of or have received information about a sexual misconduct or potential sexual misconduct incident that occurred on campus, in a university program, or at a university-sponsored event, must promptly report that incident to the Title IX Coordinator so that Wayne State can fulfill its institutional obligations. Your knowledge is the university's knowledge. When in doubt, report it.
In light of this mandatory reporting requirement, it is important for faculty and staff to know that if a student discloses an incident to you, you cannot promise confidentiality, and you should inform the student that you are required to report the incident to the Title IX Coordinator. Once reported, respect the privacy of the involved parties, and do not discuss the matter with others who do not have a legitimate need-to-know.
Wayne State is still obligated to investigate, even where the student chooses not to report or where the student is unwilling or reluctant to participate in an investigation. The University will proceed in a way that takes into account the concerns of the survivor/victim and Wayne State's responsibility to provide a safe and non-discriminatory environment to the entire campus community.
Keep in mind that all of types of sexual misconduct are traumatic experiences, causing a mixture of emotions (fear, anxiety, anger, depression, guilt). Your response and support can make a big difference. One of the best things you can do to support the student is to refer her/him to Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) at 313-577-3398. CAPS is free to all registered students and is totally confidential. (Confidential resources are also available.)
Privacy
Reports and information regarding an incident will only be shared with the necessary parties involved in the Title IX investigation process. Investigators are not legally bound to confidentiality; however, they are required by Wayne State to remain discreet and to respect the privacy of any and all individuals involved in the Title IX process.
Confidential resources
Confidential resources are available for those involved in a Title IX investigation and/or hearing. These individuals are required by either law or their own governing body to keep shared information confidential. Some individuals who act as confidential resources in their roles are:
- Medical providers
- Mental health providers (e.g. counselors, therapists, and clinical psychologists)
- Ordained clergy/pastoral ministers (or similar)
- Rape crisis counselors and advocates
These individuals will not share this information with anyone unless they believe the person is a threat to themselves, to those around them, or if they are suspected of abuse of children under the age of 18. Otherwise, they are prohibited from breaking confidentiality without written permission from the individual seeking services.