Victim Assistance

Campus Police and Security will assist victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence or stalking with transportation to the nearest designated treatment center if necessary.

The College will provide victims with referrals to counseling and information about victim support services. The college will grant victims’ requests for reasonable and appropriate alternative accommodations to allay their security and safety concerns. Possible accommodations may include alternative classes, campus relocation, work reassignments and/or schedule changes. The victim may choose to exercise the option to file formal disciplinary actions against the alleged assailant under the Student Code and the Student Grievance Procedure.

If a sexual assault should occur, the victim should go to a safe place; contact a friend or family member; get prompt medical attention; call 911 or Campus Police and Security, or one of the Title IX Coordinators. The victim should tell someone all details about the assault or write down all details as soon as possible and keep the clothes worn during the assault. If clothes are changed, the victim should place clothes in a paper bag (evidence deteriorates in plastic); not shower, bathe, or douche; not urinate, if possible; not eat, drink liquids, smoke or brush teeth if oral contact took place; and not destroy the physical evidence that may be found near the crime. If the crime occurred in the victim's home, the victim should not clean or straighten up until the police have had an opportunity to collect evidence.

A victim of any sexual assault is encouraged to seek medical assistance. This is the first step in regaining control over one’s life. Even if the victim decides not to report the assault to the appropriate authorities, it is very important to seek medical attention immediately for possible internal injuries or sexually transmitted diseases. To keep all options available, the collection of medical evidence becomes critical in the event the victim chooses, even later, to prosecute. At the emergency room, the doctor may collect samples, hair, semen, and other trace evidence. The hospital may also collect the clothing worn during the assault so it may be helpful for the victim to bring a change of clothes. Normally, the hospital will communicate with a rape crisis center and their representative will come to the emergency room to assist the victim in any way possible. Going to the hospital and having evidence collected does NOT obligate the victim to complete other actions. This simply aids in keeping options open until the victim decides how to proceed. Options include choosing to pursue charges later against the perpetrator criminally through the legal system or through PTC’s policies and procedures.

 

Reducing Risks

There are a number of proactive measures an employee or student can take to minimize the potential for becoming a victim, such as: reporting suspicious persons to Campus Police and Security, keeping others aware of one’s anticipated destinations and times of arrival and departure, and not working, studying, or being alone in buildings or isolated areas. Employees and/or students who feel uncomfortable at any place on campus should trust their feelings and contact the Campus Police and Security to be accompanied to their destination. Students should be cautious dating persons they do not know well, and get information about such persons from a mutual acquaintance or try to arrange a double date or group activity. Leaving a party or other social event with someone only recently met can be dangerous. Excessive alcohol impairs judgment. Acquaintance rapes usually involve drugs or alcohol use by one or both parties. Illicit drugs or improperly used prescription drugs can interfere with clear thinking and clear communication. Sexual limitations and desires should be communicated clearly. Finally, students should walk with confidence and alertness. Assailants are less likely to target a person who appears assertive and difficult to intimidate. 

 

Contact Information for Resources

If you find yourself a victim, or witness to, an act of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, sexual harassment, or sexual assault, you may notify any faculty or staff member or one of the following:

On-Campus

  • Campus Police and Security: 864-941-8000
  • Dean of Students: 864-941-8364
  • VP of Human Resources: 864-941-8611

Off-Campus

Sexual Assault

Domestic Violence