October 16, 2003

University code of conduct now enforced off campus

In response to safety, quality of life concerns for residents near campus

Both students and the University may now pursue disciplinary sanctions against students who violate the code of student conduct on the Evanston campus and in certain off-campus areas, in addition to any criminal or civil charges that may be appropriate.

The new policy extends the jurisdiction of the University Hearing and Appeals System (UHAS) to be congruent with University Police jurisdiction and with earlier versions of the Sexual Assault Hearing and Appeals System (SAHAS) jurisdictional provision.

Beginning this fall, the jurisdiction of both UHAS and SAHAS includes acts that occur when the student or students at issue are on University premises; at a University activity, program, function or sponsored event; in the off-campus residence of any University student or on any street or area contiguous thereto; or on premises subject to the jurisdiction of University Police whether on or off University property.

This change means that disciplinary cases will continue to be resolved through UHAS or SAHAS. This change is being made in response to concerns about the safety and well being of Northwestern students off-campus and to enhance the quality of life for those who reside near the campus. The changes were reviewed and approved by the University Safety and Crime Prevention Committee and the Judicial Affairs Task Force, which include faculty, staff and student representatives.

The move is in response to a recognized and documented student safety concern and to support University Police in their effort to address student behavior that has an impact on the University community.

A significant number of students live off-campus and, for several years, many have requested that University Police be allowed to patrol their neighborhoods to provide an extra measure of safety and security. Until recently, University Police did not have jurisdiction in some of those neighborhoods.

In May, the Evanston City Council granted University Police extended jurisdiction in the city. A map of Evanston depicting the extended jurisdiction of University Police is available online at www.northwestern.edu/handbook/city_juris_web.pdf.

More information about the code of student conduct, UHAS and SAHAS can be found in the 2003-04 Northwestern University Community Guide or online. Frequently asked questions and answers designed to answer questions will be available on the handbook web site.

Questions can be sent to question@northwestern.edu. A Student Affairs staff member will respond.