The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston (UTMB) 2024 Annual Security Report (ASR)
(2021-2023 Crime Statistics)
Provided by the UTMB Department of Internal Investigations
Introduction
The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston (UTMB) is concerned about the safety and welfare of all UTMB campus members and guests and commits itself to promoting a safe and secure environment. Because no campus can totally isolate itself from crime, UTMB has developed a series of policies and procedures designed to ensure an appropriate level of precaution is taken to protect the campus community.
The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act)
Pursuant to Title-20, United States Code, Section 1092(f), the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act) and the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) requires that each institution of higher education in the United States which participates in federal student aid programs must produce and distribute an annual report containing crime statistics and statements of security policy. The purpose of the Annual Security Report is to provide transparency regarding campus crime policies and statistics. Failure to provide required information or the inclusion of inaccurate information may result in significant fines imposed by the U.S. Department of Education (ED). UTMB’s Department of Internal Investigations ensures the Annual Security Report and the Annual Fire Safety Report for UTMB are completed in accordance with the applicable laws. These reports are prepared by utilizing institutional policies and collecting statistics from individuals designated as Campus Security Authorities as well as local police departments.
UTMB’s Marketing and Communications Department publishes the Annual Security Report and the Annual Fire Safety Report electronically via the UTMB website by October 1st each year.
Clery Act Amendments
The Campus Sexual Violence Elimination Act, or Campus SaVE Act (SaVE), is a 2013 amendment to the Clery Act. SaVE was designed by advocates along with victims/survivors and championed by a bi-partisan coalition in Congress as a companion to Title IX and designed to help bolster the response to and prevention of sexual violence in higher education. President Obama signed the measure into law as part of the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 on March 7, 2013. These amendments broadened the Clery Act to include incidents of sexual violence (sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking).
The Campus Security Legal Requirements
There are several legal requirements, some of which include the following:
• Publish and distribute an Annual Security Report every year by October 1st that contains the three most recent calendar years’ crime statistics. The ASR should also include a number of policy statements regarding procedures involving the reporting of criminal actions and other emergencies as well as the institution’s response to these reports. It should also include statements addressing institutional programs to prevent dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking. Statements advising the campus community where law enforcement agency information provided by a state concerning registered sex offenders should also be included.
• Disclose in a publicly accessible “Daily Crime Log” any crime that occurred on campus or within the patrol jurisdiction of the campus police or the campus security department and is reported to the campus police or security department.
• Publish and distribute an Annual Fire Safety Report containing the three most recent calendar years’ fire statistics about any fire that occurred on any UTMB on-campus student housing facility. The Annual Fire Safety Report is due every year by October 1st. This report should also include a number of policy statements involving fire safety.
• Disclose in a publicly accessible “Fire Log” any fire that occurred in any UTMB on-campus student housing facility.
This publication, in keeping with the requirements of the Clery Act, is designed to aid in the cooperative effort of providing the public with specific information on: campus security, crime statistics for the most recent three-year period, alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, police operations and authority, policies relating to reporting crime, and campus disciplinary procedures.
A printed copy of the Annual Security Report and the Annual Fire Safety Report may be obtained by contacting the UTMB Department of Internal Investigations via email at: investig@utmb.edu or in-person by appointment at: 2.318 Rebecca Sealy Bldg., 404 8th Street, Galveston, TX 77555-0134 or
UTMB Police Department, 2.712 Rebecca Sealy Bldg., 404 8th Street, Galveston, TX 77555-0101, during normal business hours Monday - Friday. These reports are also published online at http://www.utmb.edu/securityreport/ and www.utmb.edu/firesafetyreport. The crime log can be inspected upon request during normal business hours at the UTMB Police Department. The fire log can be inspected upon request during normal business hours at: UTMB Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Department, 1302 Mechanic St. (Materials Management Warehouse - UTMB building 28), Room 2.112, Galveston, TX 77555-1111.
CAMPUS SECURITY PERSONNEL
UTMB Facilities Security
Most UTMB campus buildings and hospital facilities are accessible to members of the UTMB campus community and their guests and visitors during normal business hours (8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday through Friday) and for limited designated hours on the weekend (Saturday and Sunday) when the University Campus and UTMB Hospitals and Clinics are in normal operation (this excludes most holidays). UTMB Students have access to the buildings during all scheduled class sessions, including laboratory, library study, and research periods. During the evening hours, limited access to UTMB campus facilities is controlled by UTMB identification badge card access and by UTMB PD Commissioned Police Officers and Public Safety Officers (PSO) who are stationed at designated main building entrances. UTMB auxiliary entrances are locked and secured. All UTMB students and all UTMB employees are issued UTMB photo identification badges. Designated vendors, designated contractors and designated volunteers are issued UTMB photo identification badges, if approved. Temporary badges or temporary color-coded passes are required for entrance into UTMB University buildings after hours for persons who do not possess an approved UTMB photo identification badge. After normal business hours, including weekends and holidays, all campus buildings are considered closed and secured. Persons needing entry must contact the UTMB Police Department for entry consideration. UTMB students going into special areas need prior written authorization from an appropriate UTMB faculty member with managing authority over the area they wish to enter.
UTMB faculty members (with managing authority over the area) requiring UTMB students to enter buildings after hours need to contact the UTMB Police Department for entry authorization. Unless emergency situations prevent, in each case that UTMB Police Dispatch Office receives notification/alarm, member of the UTMB Police Department responds to each alarm.
The exterior doors to all UTMB on-campus student housing are controlled by locking devices. Students are encouraged to keep their doors locked for their own personal safety. Students, staff, faculty, and visitors are encouraged to report all suspicious people and suspicious activity to the UTMB Police Department at: 409-772-1511, 2.712 Rebecca Sealy Bldg., 404 8th Street, Galveston, TX 77555-0101, https://www.utmb.edu/police/.
The University reserves the right to restrict the access of any person who does not adhere to University policies and procedures. Any person may be required, upon request by the UTMB Police Department, to present identification while on campus.
Employees and students are required to have their UTMB identification card in their possession at all times and to present it upon request by any UTMB University Official, as per the University of Texas Rules and Regulations of the Board of Regents, Rule 80101, Section 3 and UTMB IHOP Policy 8.2.3.
A UTMB identification card can be obtained, after prior approval, at the UTMB Police Department, which is located at: 2.712 Rebecca Sealy Bldg., 404 8th Street, Galveston, TX 77555-0101.
Security cameras are positioned at various locations around the UTMB campus, including but not limited to the entrances and exits of some parking garages, some public plazas, some buildings, the library, areas that contain high value artwork or other valuable property, and security sensitive areas. All cameras are not monitored at all times. However, they are equipped to digitally record activity within the field of view. Presence of security cameras should not preclude individuals from practicing good common sense crime prevention practices and exercising caution.
UTMB Campus Maintenance
UTMB facilities, lighting, and landscaping are maintained to reduce hazardous conditions. The University also has emergency telephones installed at various locations throughout the campus. See the website for a map of emergency telephone locations: Blue Phone Locations
UTMB Business Operations & Facilities Department (BOF) staff test the emergency telephones and respond to submitted work orders for those in need of repair. Problems with the emergency telephones are reported to the UTMB I.S. Voice Services (409772-5200) who will repair or correct the problems. Malfunctioning lights and other unsafe conditions should be reported to the UTMB Business Operations & Facilities Department (BOF) for repair or correction.
Any UTMB student, staff, faculty, or visitor who sees a possibly unsafe Non-Emergency condition is encouraged to notify UTMB Police (409-772-1511) or the UTMB Service Response Center (409-772-4040) for further attention to the problem.
UTMB student, staff, faculty, or visitor who sees a possibly unsafe Emergency condition is encouraged to notify UTMB Police using UTMB land-lines dial 911. From an off-campus location (including UTMB facilities not located on the Galveston Campus) and personal cellular telephones dial 911 to reach the local Fire Department, or dial 409-772-1111, or 409-772-1511 to reach the UTMB Police Dispatch Office.
Prevention and Awareness Education Programs:
Primary Prevention and Awareness Programs
UTMB provides primary prevention and awareness education to new students and new employees to clearly define sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and consent. The Title IX Office presents at the mandatory new student and new employee orientations and informs the audiences of UTMB Policy 3.2.4: Sexual Misconduct. This policy provides information on victim’s rights and options, including procedures victims should follow if sexual misconduct, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking occurs; the importance of preserving evidence; options for notifying law enforcement and campus authorities; procedures for institutional disciplinary action and conduct proceedings; possible sanctions following a proceeding; on-campus and community resources; rights and options for obtaining lawful orders; assistance in receiving supportive measures and remedial action; explanation of victim confidentiality; and protection from retaliation. Hypothetical scenarios and videos are also utilized during these programs. UTMB’s bystander intervention program (explained below) is also covered. Additionally, the Title IX Office attends new student events in order to raise awareness of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking. The Title IX Office also raises awareness by promoting the Red Zone and It’s On Us Campaigns, which encourage students to be alert and report suspicious or dangerous activities, especially incidents involving sexual violence.
A crime prevention and safety presentation is delivered at new employee orientation sessions by the UTMB Police Department. Students also receive information related to sexual harassment, sexual misconduct, sexual assault, and available reporting options in the UTMB student handbook. The links below are the handbooks for the different schools:
• General Information Catalog: https://www.utmb.edu/enrollmentservices/interested
• School of Medicine (“SOM”): https://som.utmb.edu/
• School of Health Professions (“SHP”): https://shp.utmb.edu/
• Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (“GSBS”): https://gsbs.utmb.edu/
• School of Nursing (“SON”): https://nursing.utmb.edu/
• School of Public and Population Health (“SPPH”): https://www.utmb.edu/spph/
Bystander Intervention Program - Do the Right Thing! A.C.T.
In conjunction with UTMB’s Student Health and Counseling Services Department, the Title IX Office has created a Bystander Intervention Program called, “Do the right thing! A.C.T.: Assist; Call for help; Tell someone.” All new students and employees are introduced to the Bystander Intervention Program at new student and new employee orientations. A website (https://www.utmb.edu/act) has been created to provide information and resources about recognizing warning signs, assessing various situations, and safely intervening, when possible, in order to create a safer campus. A printable Bystander Intervention Toolkit is available to the UTMB community on the website. The website also promotes upcoming events that specifically address prevention and awareness involving topics such as sexual harassment, sexual violence, domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, and suicide. Safe and positive options for bystander intervention include but are not limited to: contacting the police, ensuring that incapacitated individuals are not left alone or taken advantage of, creating a distraction, telling someone who is acting inappropriately to stop, or diffusing a situation. Risk reduction tips include: Be mindful of your surroundings, travel in groups, create safety plans, vary travel routes, stay in public areas when possible, drink responsibly, do not leave your drinks unattended, etc.
Consent
UTMB uses the following definitions of consent in its awareness and education programs:
IHOP Policy 3.2.4: Sexual Misconduct defines consent as: a voluntary, mutually understandable agreement that clearly indicates a willingness to engage in each instance of sexual activity. Consent to one act does not imply consent to another. Consent to engage in sexual activity with one person does not imply consent to engage in sexual activity with another. Consent can be withdrawn at any time. Any expression of an unwillingness to engage in any instance of sexual activity establishes a presumptive lack of consent.
Consent is not effective if it results from: (a) the use of physical force, (b) a threat of physical force, (c) intimidation, (d) coercion, (e) incapacitation or (f) any other factor that would eliminate an individual’s ability to exercise his or her own free will to choose whether or not to have sexual activity. A current or previous dating or sexual relationship, by itself, is not sufficient to constitute consent. Even in the context of a relationship, there must be a voluntary, mutually understandable agreement that clearly indicates willingness to engage in each instance of sexual activity.
The Texas Penal Code, Section 22.011(b) states that sexual assault without the consent of the other person occurs if: (1) the actor compels the other person to submit or participate by the use of physical force or violence; (2) the actor compels the other person to submit or participate by threatening to use force or violence against the other person, and the other person believes that the actor has the present ability to execute the threat; (3) the other person has not consented and the actor knows the other person is unconscious or physically unable to resist; (4) the actor knows that as a result of mental disease or defect the other person is at the time of the sexual assault incapable either of appraising the nature of the act or of resisting it; (5) the other person has not consented and the actor knows the other person is unaware that the sexual assault is occurring; (6) the actor has intentionally impaired the other person’s power to appraise or control the other person’s conduct by administering any substance without the other person’s knowledge; (7) the actor compels the other person to submit or participate by threatening to use force or violence against any person, and the other person believes that the actor has the ability to execute the threat; (8) the actor is a public servant who coerces the other person to submit or participate; (9) the actor is a mental health services provider or a health care services provider who causes the other person, who is a patient or former patient of the actor, to submit or participate by exploiting the other person’s emotional dependency on the actor; (10) the actor is a clergyman who causes the other person to submit or participate by exploiting the other person’s emotional dependency on the clergyman in the clergyman’s professional character as spiritual adviser; (11) the actor is an employee of a facility where the other person is a resident, unless the employee and resident are formally or informally married to each other under Chapter 2 of the Texas Family Code; (12) the actor is a health care services provider who, in the course of performing an assisted reproduction procedure on
the other person, uses human reproductive material from a donor knowing that the other person has not expressly consented to the use of material from that donor; (13) the actor is a coach or tutor who causes the other person to submit or participate by using the actor’s power or influence to exploit the other person’s dependency on the actor; (14) the actor is a caregiver hired to assist the other person with activities of daily life and causes the other person to submit or participate by exploiting the other person’s dependency on the actor.
Ongoing Prevention and Awareness Programs/Campaigns
All UTMB employees must complete required annual employee compliance training online. The Title IX portion of the annual compliance training contains information about sexual misconduct, sexual violence, dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and consent. The annual compliance training provides information and hypothetical examples intended to fully explain UTMB’s Sexual Misconduct Policy and related information.
Other educational and awareness programs/campaigns hosted by UTMB include: National Stalking Awareness Month; organized rape defense classes for student groups with UTMB’s Campus Police department; Women’s History Month; Domestic Violence Awareness Month; Title IX awareness events; and Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
UTMB’s Title IX Office conducts other various presentations and training programs for both students and employees throughout the year on topics related to Title IX, including gender discrimination, gender bias, sexual harassment, sexual violence, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking. For more information, contact: The Department of Internal Investigations and Institutional Title IX Office, Office of Legal and Regulatory Affairs (409-772-2112 or Title.IX@utmb.edu).
Security Awareness Programs
The following on-line trainings are offered on an ongoing basis throughout the calendar year. The UTMB community is encouraged to visit the UTMB Police website (https://www.utmb.edu/police/services/crime-prevention) often and at least annually to review these programs:
• Active Shooter, What You Can Do (provides guidance on how to prepare for and respond to active shooter crisis situations)
• Shots Fired on Campus training videos (provides guidance on how to respond in the event of an active shooter):
1. Shots Fired on Campus
2. Shots Fired in the Workplace
3. Flashpoint – Campus Violence
4. Flashpoint – Violence in the Workplace
• Workplace Violence (provides guidance on how to recognize, respond to and report workplace violence)
• Infant Abduction (provides guidance on prevention, risk reduction and reporting methods for infant abduction)
• Bomb Threats (provides guidance on identifying possible explosive devices, receiving notification of bomb threats, reporting methods and evacuation procedures)
• Response to Deadly Behavior (provides guidance on identifying and responding to deadly behavior, evacuation procedures and how to assist the Police Rapid Response Team)
Crime Prevention and Education Programs
Crime Prevention Programs: Various programs are available to inform the UTMB community about campus security procedures and practices and to encourage them to be responsible for their own safety and the safety of others. Crime prevention presentations are held for students, employees, and faculty members, including: commuter students, students with disabilities, international students, student government, faculty and staff organizations, specific campus departments, and recognized student organizations. Crime prevention presentations are covered during the student’s online orientation program. The orientation program includes an entire module that covers safety on campus. Additionally, the students have the ability to refer back to the online program at any time after they have completed the session.
This information is also available at the UTMB Lee Hage Jamail Student Center, UTMB School of Health Professions and Nursing, UTMB Moody Medical Library and the UTMB Police Department. Programs offered throughout the year by the UTMB Police Department consist of:
- Rape Aggression and Defense (RAD) (This is a free 12-hour basic self-defense class for students, employees and faculty, which blends threat avoidance strategies with real-world assault resistance tactics for women. For more information, please email Lieutenant Shawn Carr (sdcarr@utmb.edu) or call the UTMB Police at 409-772-2691.)
- Bicycle Registration (This is a program offering free U-bolt locks to students who register their bicycles in order to help prevent bicycle thefts and to aid in recovery in the event theft occurs. For more information, please email Corporal Henry Hill (hchill@utmb.edu) or call 409-772-2691.)
- Safety Watch Program (UTMB Police Department provides an escort service (“Safety Watch”) for employees, students, faculty and visitors walking on campus from dusk to dawn to on-campus locations. To request a safety watch, please contact the UTMB Police Dispatch at 409-772-2691.)
- UTMB Police Department offers workplace violence prevention training for incoming new clinical nursing staff in coordination with the Department of Nursing Development and ongoing training programs coordinated through the Department of Employee Health.
Electronic Alarm Systems: A sophisticated, computer-based, electronic system that monitors a comprehensive network of in- trusion detection and duress alarm systems.
Architectural Design: Technical and crime prevention specialists of the UTMB Police Department have significant input into the design of the physical and electronic security systems of all new and renovated campus facilities.
Security Surveys: Comprehensive Security Site Surveys or audits are made for a number of campus facilities and high-risk areas throughout the year. Exterior doors and grounds are examined by UTMB Police Department Patrol Officers and Public Safety Officers (PSO) on their daily patrol, and malfunctions/required-repairs are reported to the UTMB Service Response Center for correction.
To reach the UTMB Police Department in the event of an emergency, dial 911 from any On-Campus Galveston location. For emergencies reported from an off-campus location (including UTMB facilities not located on the Galveston Campus) and personal cellular telephones, dial 409-772-111 or 409-772-1511 to reach the UTMB Police Dispatch Office. For a non-emergency, dial 2-1154 or 2-2691 from any on-campus Galveston location. From an off-campus location (including UTMB facilities not located on the Galveston Campus) and personal cellular telephones, the UTMB Police Department may be reached by calling 409-772-1154 or 409-772-2691.
Visit web address https://www.utmb.edu/police/ for additional information.
Authority and Jurisdiction of the University Police Law Enforcement
The UTMB Police Department’s headquarters is located at: 404 8th Street, room #2.712, 2nd floor, Rebecca Sealy Bldg., Galveston, TX 77555-0101. UTMB Police Officers are certified Texas Peace Officers, as defined in the Texas Code of Criminal Procedures, Article 2.12, and are licensed by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE). UTMB Police Officers are commissioned by the University of Texas System pursuant to the Texas Education Code § 51.203.
UTMB Police Officers are vested with all of the powers, responsibilities, privileges, and immunities of a Texas Peace Officer, as defined in the Texas Education Code § 51.203. The UTMB Police Department’s jurisdiction includes all counties in which property is owned, leased, rented, or otherwise under the control of the University of Texas System.
In addition to commissioned police uniformed officers, the UTMB Police Department employs UTMB Public Safety Officers (PSO) who are civilian employees who have the same level of arrest authority as a citizen as authorized by the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. UTMB Public Safety Officers serve as support staff for the UTMB Police Department by providing a visible uniform presence in buildings and on UTMB campus property to deter crime. UTMB Public Safety Officers report criminal incidents to the Police Officers who are designated first responders. The UTMB Police Department has the responsibility and duty to enforce all local, state, and federal laws. UTMB Police Officers carry firearms and may arrest violators and refer them to the judicial system for prosecution.
Reporting Crimes
Procedures for Reporting Crimes and Other Emergencies
In an emergency, all members of the UTMB community and guests should dial 911 to reach emergency services and law enforcement in Galveston or the area in which they are headed. All members of the UTMB community and guests are also encouraged to promptly and accurately report all criminal activity (including threatening or suspicious activity), fires, health emergencies and violations of policies to the UTMB Police Department either in person at: 404 8th Street, room #2.712, Galveston, TX 77555-0101 (on the second floor of the Rebecca Sealy Bldg.) or by telephone by dialing 2-1111, 2-1154, 2-2691 (on-campus Galveston locations), or 409-772-1111 (cell phones and/or off campus locations, including UTMB facilities not located on the Galveston campus). Crimes can also be reported to the Galveston Police Department at 409- 765-3702, the League City Police Department at 281-332-2566, the Angleton Police Department at 979-849-2383, and the Port of Galveston Police Department at 409-766-6172. UTMB’s Police Department has a Memorandum of Understanding with both the Galveston Police Department and the Port of Galveston Police Department.
In order to report a Clery Act crime for the purpose of issuing a timely warning, please contact the UTMB Police Department either in person at 404 8th Street, room # 2.712, Galveston, TX 77555-0101 (on the second floor of the Rebecca Sealy Bldg.) or in an emergency by telephone by dialing 911 or non-emergency by dialing 2-1111, 2-1154, 2-2691 (on-campus Galveston locations), or 409-772-1111 (cell phones and/or off campus locations, including UTMB facilities not located on the Galveston campus). In order to report Clery Act crimes for inclusion in statistical disclosures, please contact the Department of Internal Investigations by telephone at 409-747-5741 or by email at tnvance@utmb.edu. Victims and/or witnesses who would like to report crimes on a voluntary and confidential basis for inclusion in the annual security report can do so by contacting the Department of Internal Investigations by dialing 409-747-5741 or by emailing tnvance@utmb.edu.
Emergency and police telephone numbers are answered twenty-four hours a day by UTMB Police Department certified telecommunications personnel who maintain two-way radio communication with on-duty UTMB Police Department personnel. Emergency telephones are strategically located across the campus, in elevators and in parking garages. These telephones can also be used to request that the UTMB Police Department provide an on campus escort (Safety Watch) between dusk and dawn. Police personnel investigate and document all reported crime and suspicious activity in a written report that is included in reported categorized crime statistics.
See web site for map of emergency telephones locations: Blue Phone Locations
Detailed security procedures, including those related to sexual assault, are found in the following sections of the Institutional Handbook of Operating Procedures (http://intranet.utmb.edu/Policies_And_Procedures/toc.aspx): Threatening Situations (08.02.01); Campus Security Reporting (08.02.02); Sexual Misconduct Policy (03.02.04); and Workplace Violence (08.01.04).
False Alarm or Report
In accordance with the provisions of HB-1284, enrolled students are notified that the Texas Penal Code, Section 42.06, False Alarm or Report (http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/PE/htm/PE.42.htm#42.06) has been revised. Making a false alarm or report of an emergency involving a public institution of higher education is a state jail felony offense.
According to the Texas Penal Code, Section 12.35 (http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/PE/htm/PE.12.htm), state jail felony is punishable by confinement in a state jail for any term of not more than two years or less than 180 days. In addition to confinement, an individual adjudged guilty of a state jail felony may be punished by a fine not to exceed $10,000.
Reporting Crimes to Other Campus Security Authorities
UTMB acknowledges that some persons may be reluctant about reporting crimes to the UTMB police but may be more willing to report incidents to other UTMB staff and faculty campus officials who are designated as Campus Security Authorities (CSA). The Clery Act also mandates that institutions must disclose statistics both for crimes reported to local police agencies and crimes reported to Campus Security Authorities.
Who Are UTMB’s Campus Security Authorities (CSAs)?
In accordance with 34 CFR 668.46(a), CSAs include four (4) groups of individuals and organizations:
• A campus police department (UTMB Police) or a campus security department of an institution;
• Any individual or individuals who have responsibility for campus security but who do not constitute a campus police department or a campus security department under paragraph (i) of this definition, such as an individual who is responsible for monitoring entrance into institutional property;
• Any individual or organization specified in an institution’s statement of campus security policy as an individual or organization to which students and employees should report criminal offenses; and
• An official of an institution who has significant responsibility for student and campus activities, including, but not limited to, student housing, student discipline, and campus judicial proceedings. If such an official is a pastoral or professional counselor as defined below, the official is not considered a campus security authority when acting as a pastoral or professional counselor.
An Official is defined as: any person who has the authority and the duty to take action or respond to particular issues on behalf of the institution.
Non-law Enforcement Campus Security Authorities
The intent of including non-law enforcement personnel as campus security authorities is to acknowledge that many people, students in particular, are hesitant about reporting crimes to the police but may be more inclined to report incidents to other campus affiliated individuals. All campus officials, faculty and staff are encouraged to report all crimes even if not required to do so. UTMB understands the confidential nature of certain campus officials, such as pastoral and professional counselors acting in that capacity and will respect the confidentiality of information obtained for statistical reporting purposes. UTMB encourages pastoral and professional counselors, if and when they deem it appropriate, to inform their counselees of their ability to report crime voluntarily and confidentially for Clery Act purposes. Only general information, such as general location, type of crime and date of crime are needed for crime statistics. Complete reporting by all university members will assist in providing a secure campus environment. See IHOP Policy 8.2.2: Campus Security Reporting (https://www.utmb.edu/ policies_and_procedures/IHOP/Health_Safety_and_Security/IHOP%20-%2008.02.02%20-%20Campus%20 Security%20Reporting.pdf).
Because of the Clery Act’s complex reporting requirements, the most reasonable and effective way to manage reporting is: If someone reports one of the crimes below to a CSA in their capacity as a CSA, the CSA must immediately notify the UTMB Police Department and the Department of Internal Investigations.
Crimes that are required to be reported for Clery Act reporting are:
5. Murder and non-negligent manslaughter
6. Negligent manslaughter
7. Sexual assault, including rape, fondling, incest and statutory rape
8. Robbery
9. Aggravated assault
10. Burglary
11. Motor vehicle theft
12. Arson
13. Hate crimes (Hate crimes are criminal offense that manifest evidence that the victim was intentionally selected because of the perpetrator’s bias against the victim. The categories of bias include: race, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, ethnicity, national origin, and disability. The offenses include numbers 1-8 above in addition to larceny-theft, simple assault, intimidation, and destruction/damage/vandalism of property.)
14. Domestic violence
Stalking
17. Arrests and referrals for disciplinary action for weapons (carrying, possession, etc.) law violations, drug abuse violations and liquor law violations
Definitions of these Clery Act crimes may be found starting on page ten of this report. These crimes will only be counted for Clery Act purposes if they are reported to have occurred within the Clery Act geography, which consists of the following categories: (1) on campus; (2) on public property within or immediately adjacent to the campus; and 3) in or on noncampus buildings or property that UTMB owns or controls.
Reporting Crimes Outside of the Patrol Jurisdiction of UTMB Police Department
Clery Act crimes reported to local municipal police departments will be included as long as the municipal police agency notifies UTMB, and the reported crime occurred in an area for which the institution is responsible under the Clery Act. UTMB contacts various local police departments in a good faith effort to obtain information on reported Clery Act crimes.
When a UTMB student is involved in an off-campus incident, UTMB Police officers may assist with the investigation in cooperation with local, state or federal law enforcement when notified by that responding agency.
The Galveston Police Department, League City Police Department, Houston Police Department, Texas City Police Department, Port of Galveston Police Department, Alvin Police Department, Pearland Police Department, and Angleton Police Department have the professional ability to work together and communicate with UTMB Police officers on any serious incident occurring on or in the immediate neighborhoods and business areas surrounding UTMB campuses and building structures.
Some UTMB students live in the neighborhoods surrounding UTMB. The Galveston Police Department has primary jurisdiction in all areas off-campus in Galveston, Texas. The League City Police Department has primary jurisdiction in all areas offcampus in League City, Texas. The Angleton Police Department has primary jurisdiction in all areas off-campus in Angleton, Texas. The Houston Police Department has primary jurisdiction within Houston, Texas. The Texas City Police Department has primarily jurisdiction within Texas City, Texas. The Port of Galveston Police Department has primary jurisdiction within Port of Galveston Police Department campus. The Alvin Police Department has primary jurisdiction within Alvin, Texas. The Pearland Police Department has primary jurisdiction within Pearland, Texas. These police agencies have the professional responsibility to respond to all incidents in these areas. UTMB Police Officers may assist with major crimes near campus when requested/notified by that responding primary agency. When such a request for assistance occurs, or comes to the attention of the UTMB Police Department, the UTMB Police Department will make a report and will follow up with any campus safety impact related issues, including Clery Act reporting, as necessary.
Timely Warnings
When a Clery Act offense is reported to have occurred on UTMB’s Clery Act geography and if UTMB’s Police Department is notified and aware of a Clery Act offense, the UTMB Chief of Police or his designee will conduct a timely review of the circumstances surrounding the offense in order to determine if the offense constitutes a continuing or impending threat to UTMB’s campus community. Other circumstances considered include the nature of the crime and whether there may be the possible risk of compromising law enforcement efforts.
If the offense presents a continuing threat and it is determined that a timely warning will be issued, a message will be prepared by UTMB Police and the UTMB Marketing and Communications team. Once the timely warning message is finalized, it will be posted on the UTMB Alert webpage (https://www.utmb.edu/alert/), which will automatically place a color-coded notification on the main webpage (https://www.utmb.edu/) and the intranet homepage (http://intranet.utmb.edu/iutmb/).
As appropriate, the message may also be posted to UTMB institutional social media accounts managed by Marketing and Communications (UTMB Health and I Am UTMB pages on Facebook; @UTMBHealth for Twitter). If warranted, a global broadcast email message may be sent as well. Alerts may occasionally be posted on campus monitors and via the UTMB Police Twitter (@utmbpolice).
If appropriate, the Media Relations division of UTMB Marketing and Communications will notify local media. That office is responsible for coordinating all media responses on behalf of the institution.
In the event of a campus-wide critical incident, UTMB Leadership and/or UTMB PD Chief of Police, or his designee, and/or Marketing and Communications may also utilize the UTMB Alerts emergency notification system ((https://www.utmb.edu/ emergency_plan/communications/). UTMB Alerts attempts to deliver emergency notifications using text, telephone and/or email messages. See “Timely Warnings and the Emergency Notification System” below.
* UTMB will not necessarily issue timely warnings for every Clery Act criminal incident that is reported since that specific incident may not pose an impending or continuing threat to the community. Certain Clery Act crimes like motor vehicle theft, for example, occur infrequently on the campus at random locations. Individuals should exercise due care and caution to avoid being victimized. Familiarize yourself with the crime prevention tips offered by UTMB Police Department to help in deterring these types of crimes. (https://www.utmb.edu/police/).
When are Timely Warnings Issued?
In accordance with the published guidelines, the decision to issue a timely warning is made on a case-by-case basis in light of all facts surrounding the crime, including factors such as the nature of the crime, the continuing danger to the community, and the possible risk of compromising law enforcement efforts.
UTMB will issue timely warnings without delay once reported information has been verified and the determination is made that an immediate threat to the community is evident. Other warnings may be issued for other offenses not covered by this regulation if a determination is made that the warning will aid in preventing similar offenses from occurring.
Timely Warnings and Emergency Notification System
UTMB Alerts is the university’s emergency notification system for quickly notifying UTMB students, faculty and staff of messages related to health, safety and business operations in the event of an emergency or adverse condition affecting all or part of the university. UTMB Alerts messages are sent via text, telephone and/or email, depending on the contact information individual users have entered in the system.
In compliance with UT System requirements, all faculty, staff and students are automatically enrolled in UTMB Alerts, using telephone and/or email information contained in the UTMB university directory. Individuals are encouraged to update their UTMB Alerts profile with the contact methods most likely to reach them quickly (e.g., personal mobile device) to help ensure the most rapid notification. For more information or to update your information, visit https://www.utmb.edu/emergency_plan/ communications/utmbalerts/overview
When a situation calls for mass emergency notification, such as an evacuation of a UTMB campus or an active shooter, UTMB Leadership and/or UTMB Police Department and/or UTMB Marketing and Communications produce and disseminate appropriate and timely messaging. Members of the university community should also access the UTMB Alert web page for any additional information that may be available.
Crime Definitions for Clery Act Purposes
• Murder – Non-negligent Manslaughter: The willful killing of another person by another.
• Negligent Manslaughter: The killing of one human being by another through gross negligence.
• Sexual Assault: Any sexual act directed against another person, without consent of the victim, including instances where the victim is incapable of giving consent.
1. Rape: penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus, with any body part or object, or oral penetration by a sex organ of another person, without the consent of the victim.
2. Fondling: touching of the private body parts of another person for the purpose of sexual gratification, without the consent of the victim, including instances where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his/ her age or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental incapacity.
3. Incest: sexual intercourse between persons who are related to each other within the degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by law.
4. Statutory Rape: sexual intercourse with a person who is under the statutory age of consent.
5. Robbery: 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.
6. Aggravated Assault: 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 result in serious personal injury.)
7. Burglary: unlawful entry of a structure to commit a felony or a theft.
8. Motor Vehicle Theft: theft or attempted theft of a motor vehicle. (All cases where automobiles are taken by persons not having lawful access are classified as motor vehicle thefts, even when the vehicles are later abandoned.)
9. Arson: 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.
10. Domestic Violence: felony or misdemeanor crime of violence committed by: (1) a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the victim; (2) a person with whom the victim shares a child in common: (3) a person who is cohabitating with or has cohabitated with the victim as a spouse or intimate partner; (4) a person similarly situated to a spouse of the victim under domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction in which the crime of violence occurred; or (5) any other person against an adult or youth victim who is protected from that person’s acts under the domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction in which the crime of violence occurred.
11. Dating Violence: violence committed by a person who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim. The existence of such a relationship shall be determined based upon the reporting party’s statement and with the consideration of the length of the relationship, the type of the relationship, and the frequency of interactions between the persons involved in the relationship.
12. Stalking: engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to fear for his or her safety or the safety of others or suffer substantial emotional distress.
13. Weapon Law Violations: violation of laws or ordinances prohibiting the manufacture, sale, purchase, transportation, possession, concealment, or use of firearms, cutting instruments, explosives, incendiary devices or other deadly weapons. This encompasses weapons offenses that are regulatory in nature.
14. Drug Abuse Violations: violations of laws prohibiting the production, distribution and/or use of certain controlled substances and the equipment or devices utilized in their preparation and/or use; the unlawful cultivation, manufacture, distribution, sale, purchase, use, possession, transportation or importation of any controlled drug or narcotic substance; and arrests for violations of state and local laws, specifically those relating to the unlawful possession, sale, use, growing, manufacturing and making of narcotic drugs.
15. Liquor Law Violations: violation of state or local laws or ordinances prohibiting: the manufacture, sale, purchase, transportation, possession or use of alcoholic beverages, not including driving under the influence and drunkenness. (Public Intoxication and Driving While Intoxicated are Penal Code violations and are not included in this definition.)
16. Hate Crime: criminal offense that manifests evidence that the victim was intentionally selected because of the perpetrator’s bias against the victim. Bias is a preformed negative opinion or attitude toward a group of persons based on their race, gender, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity or national origin.
Hate Crimes
Hate Crime Groups
For Clery Act purposes, hate crimes include any offense in the following two groups that is motivated by bias:
Group#1: (From crime definitions above) Murder and non-negligent manslaughter, sex offenses, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, motor vehicle theft, and arson.
Group#2:
- Larceny: the unlawful taking, carrying, leading, or riding away property from the possession or constructive possession of another.
- Simple Assault: an unlawful physical attack by one person upon another where neither the offender displays a weapon, nor the victim suffers obvious severe or aggravated bodily injury involving apparent broken bones, loss of teeth, possible internal injury, severe lacerations or loss of consciousness.
- Intimidation: to unlawfully place another person in reasonable fear of bodily harm through the use of threatening words and/or other conduct but without displaying a weapon or subjecting the victim to actual physical attack.
- Vandalism: to willfully or maliciously destroy, injure, disfigure, or deface any public or private property, real or personal, without the consent of the owner or person having custody or control by cutting, tearing, breaking, marking, painting, drawing, covering with filth, or any such means as may be specific by local law.
State Law Crime Definitions
Dating violence: Dating Violence is defined by the Texas Family Code, Section 71.0021 as:
(a) an act, other than a defensive measure to protect oneself, by an actor that:
(1) is committed against a victim:
(A) with whom the actor has or has had a dating relationship; or
(B) because of the victim’s marriage to or dating relationship with an individual with whom the actor is or has been in a dating relationship or marriage; and
(2) is intended to result in physical harm, bodily injury, assault, or sexual assault or that is a threat that reasonably places the victim in fear of imminent physical harm, bodily injury, assault, or sexual assault.
(b) For purposes of this title, “dating relationship,” means a relationship between individuals who have or have had a continuing relationship of a romantic or intimate nature. The existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on consideration of:
(1) the length of the relationship;
(2) the nature of the relationship; and
(3) the frequency and type of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship.
(c) A casual acquaintanceship or ordinary fraternization in a business or social context does not constitute a “dating relationship” under Subsection (b).
Domestic Violence: Family Violence is defined by the Texas Family Code Section 71.004 as:
(1) an act by a member of a family or household against another member of the family or household that is intended to result in physical harm, bodily injury, assault, or sexual assault or that is a threat that reasonably places the member in fear of imminent physical harm, bodily injury, assault, or sexual assault, but does not include defensive measures to protect oneself;
(2) abuse, as that term is defined by Sections 261.001(1)(C), (E), (G), (H), (I), (J), and (K), by a member of a family or household toward a child of the family or household; or
(3) dating violence, as that term is defined by Section 71.0021.
Sexual Assault: Sexual Assault is defined by Texas Penal Code, Section 22.011 as intentionally or knowingly:
a) Causing the penetration of the anus or sexual organ of another person by any means, without that person’s consent; or
b) Causing the penetration of the mouth of another person by the sexual organ of the actor, without that person’s consent; or
c) Causing the sexual organ of another person, without that person’s consent, to contact or penetrate the mouth, anus, or sexual organ of another person, including the actor.
Stalking: Stalking, as defined by Texas Penal Code, Section 42.072, is when an individual on more than one occasion and pursuant to the same scheme or course of conduct that is directed specifically at another person, knowingly engages in conduct that:
a) is considered harassment, or that the actor knows or reasonably should know the other person will regard as threatening:
i. bodily injury or death for the other person;
ii. bodily injury or death for a member of the other person’s family or household or for an individual with whom the other person has a dating relationship; or
iii. that an offense will be committed against the other person’s property;
b) causes the other person, a member of the other person’s family or household, or an individual with whom the other person has a dating relationship to be placed in fear of bodily injury or death or in fear that an offense will be committed against the other person’s property, or to feel harassed, annoyed, alarmed, abused, tormented, embarrassed, or offended; and
c) would cause a reasonable person to:
i. fear bodily injury or death for himself or herself;
ii. fear bodily injury or death for a member of the person’s family or household or for an individual with whom the person has a dating relationship;
iii. fear that an offense will be committed against the person’s property; or
iv. feel harassed, annoyed, alarmed, abused, tormented, embarrassed, or offended.
Monitoring and Recording Criminal Activity
UTMB monitors and records Clery Act reported crimes (as defined beginning on page ten of this report) occurring on UTMB’s campus, noncampus locations and public property locations as defined below. Crimes occurring within UTMB’s Clery geography but not recognized as “on-campus” locations are defined as follows:
• Non-Campus: buildings or property owned or controlled by officially recognized student organizations and are not in the same reasonable contiguous geographic area of the UTMB Galveston campus; and buildings or properties owned or controlled by UTMB that are used indirect support of, or in relation to, the UTMB’s educational purposes, are frequently used by UTMB students, and are not in the same reasonable contiguous geographic area of the UTMB Galveston campus; and
• Public-Property including thoroughfares, streets, sidewalks, and parking facilities that are within the UTMB campus or immediately adjacent to and accessible from the campus. The primary jurisdiction of the UTMB Police Department does not extend to public property contiguous to the campus; therefore, the Department has a limited role in investigating criminal activity at these locations. The UTMB Police Department’s role is limited to information sharing, cooperation, and coordination with the investigating local law enforcement agencies (Galveston Police Department, League City Police Department, Houston Police Department, Webster Police Department, and Angleton Police Department).
Daily Crime Log
Daily Crime Log (Publicly Accessible Crime Log)
The UTMB Daily Crime Log is a public crime log for all reported UTMB on-campus crime activity, as well as any reported crime activity that occurred within UTMB PD’s jurisdiction. UTMB PD jurisdiction includes all counties in which property is owned, leased, or rented, or otherwise under the control of the University of Texas System. The Daily Crime Log is publicly accessible and maintained in the UTMB Police Department. The crime log contains the following information:
• Nature of the crime;
• Date and time the crime occurred;
• Date and time the crime was reported;
• General location where the crime occurred; and
• Disposition of the crime.
A hard copy of the daily crime log is available for public inspection during normal business hours at the main office of the UTMB Police Department located at: 404 8th Street, room #2.712, 2nd floor, Rebecca Sealy Bldg., Galveston, TX 775550101. The log is updated within two (2) days of any activity taking place. The crime log for the most recent sixty (60) day period is available for viewing upon request during normal business hours. Any portion of the log that is older than sixty (60) days will be made available within two (2) business days of a request for public inspection.
Requests involving Local Police Departments
UTMB makes a good-faith effort to obtain crime statistics from the Galveston Police Department, League City Police Department, Houston Police Department, Texas City Police Department, Port of Galveston Police Department, Alvin Police Department, Pearland Police Department, Webster Police Department, and Angleton Police Department regarding the UTMB Clery geography in those jurisdictions.
Disclosures Involving Crimes of Violence
In accordance with Section 1094 of Title 20, United States Code, UTMB will, upon written request, disclose to the alleged victim of a crime of violence (as defined in Section 16 of Title 18, United States Code), or a non-forcible sex offense, the report on the results of any disciplinary proceeding conducted by UTMB against a student who is the alleged perpetrator of such crime or offense. If the alleged victim is deceased as a result of such crime or offense, the next of kin of such victim shall be treated as the alleged victim for these purposes. For allegations of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, it is not necessary for a victim to make a request because the complainant and respondent will both be provided with the results and any resulting any institutional disciplinary proceedings simultaneously in writing. Additionally, when applicable, the complainant and respondent will be provided with simultaneous written notification of any change to the result and will receive notice when such results become final.
2024 Annual Security Report (ASR)
2021-2023 Crime Statistics
2024 Annual Security Report (ASR)
Referrals and Arrests
Hate Crimes
Hate Crime Definition: A hate crime is a criminal offense committed against a person or property which is motivated, in whole or in part, by the offender’s bias. Bias is a preformed negative opinion or attitude toward a group of persons based on their race, gender, religion, disability, sexual orientation or ethnicity/national origin.
For Clery Act purposes, hate crimes include any offense in the following two groups that is motivated by bias:
Group#1 (From crime categories in above statistical tables)
• Murder and Non-negligent manslaughter
• Rape
• Fondling
• Incest
• Statutory Rape
• Robbery
• Aggravated assault
• Burglary
• Motor vehicle theft
• Arson
Group#2
• Larceny-Theft: the unlawful taking, carrying, leading, or riding away property from the possession or constructive possession of another.
• Simple Assault: an unlawful physical attack by one person upon another where neither the offender displays a weapon, not the victim suffers obvious severe or aggravated bodily injury involving apparent broken bones, loss of teeth, possible internal injury, severe lacerations or loss of consciousness.
• Intimidation: to unlawfully place another person in reasonable fear of bodily harm through the use of threatening words and/or other conduct, but without displaying a weapon or subjecting the victim to actual physical attack.
• Vandalism: to willfully or maliciously destroy, injure, disfigure, or deface any public or private property, real or personal, without the consent of the owner or person having custody or control by cutting, tearing, breaking, marking, painting, drawing, covering with filth, or any such means as may be specific by local law.
Sex Offender Registry and Access to Related Information
The federal Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act (CSCPA), enacted on October 28, 2000, went into effect October 28, 2002. The law requires institutions of higher education to issue a statement advising the campus community where law enforcement agency information provided by a state concerning registered sex offenders may be obtained. It also requires sex offenders, already required to register in a state, to provide notice, as required under state law, of each institution of higher education in that state at which the person is employed, carries on a vocation, or is a student.
This act amends the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974 to clarify that nothing in that Act may be construed to prohibit an educational institution from disclosing information provided to the institution concerning registered sex offenders and requires the Secretary of Education to take appropriate steps to notify educational institutions that disclosure of this information is permitted.
State law requires person(s) convicted of or placed on deferred community supervision for certain offenses to register as sexual offenders. Offenders who committed “sexually violent” offenses (most contact offenses) must register for the remainder of their lives, even after completing probation or parole. Other offenders (some non-contact offenses) may discontinue registering ten (10) years after completing their term of supervision. Law enforcement authorities are required to inform UTMB when registered sex offenders indicate they are living, working or volunteering services on UTMB campus.
To learn whether information of this nature has been provided to UTMB, contact the UTMB Police Department, which is located at 404 8th Street, room #2.712, 2nd floor, Rebecca Sealy Bldg., Galveston, TX 77555-0101, or by telephone by dialing 2-1111, 2-1154, or 2-2691 (on-campus Galveston locations), or 409-772-1111 (cell phones and/or off campus locations, including UTMB facilities not located on the Galveston campus), web: http://www.utmb.edu/police/. You can access the sex offender registration files free of charge through the Texas Department of Public Safety (TXDPS) web page at: https://www.dps.texas.gov/.
Alcohol and Drugs
The use or possession of alcohol while on duty or while in vehicles used for university business is prohibited. Use of alcohol or an illegal drug or controlled substance while not on duty which adversely affects job performance or may adversely affect the health or safety of other employees, students, visitors or patients is prohibited. For more information, see IHOP 8.1.9: Manufacture, Sale, Possession, Distribution or Use of Alcohol, Controlled Substances or Illegal Drugs (https://www.utmb.edu/policies_ and_procedures/IHOP/Health_Safety_and_Security/IHOP%20-%2008.01.09%20-%20Manufacture,%20 Sale,%20 Possession,%20Distribution,%20or%20Use%20of%20Alcohol,%20Controlled%20Substances%20or%20 Illegal%20 Drugs.pdf).
UTMB is dedicated to providing a healthy, comfortable, and productive environment for students, staff, faculty, and guests. All members of the UTMB community are expected to maintain self-control. Conduct should be consistent with ideals of academic excellence, health, and responsible social behavior, including recognition of the rights of others. It is also recognized that UTMB is a community of free and open inquiry in which adults are encouraged to make responsible decisions in their lives, including abstinence from or careful use of alcohol. UTMB recognizes the freedom of conscience that determines such issues, but cautions that such freedom does not imply license to violate the law or UTMB policy.
University of Texas System Disciplinary Action / Regents’ Rules and Regulations
Series 50000, Section 2 of the Rules and Regulations of the Board of Regents of the University of Texas System provides for disciplinary action against any student who engages in conduct that is prohibited by state, federal, or local law. This includes those laws prohibiting the use, possession, or distribution of drugs.
UTMB may impose penalties for conduct related to the unlawful use, possession, or distribution of alcohol, which include disciplinary probation, payment for damage to or misappropriation of property, suspension of rights and privileges, suspension for a specified period of time, expulsion, or such other penalty as may be deemed appropriate under the circumstances.
Regents’ Rules and Regulations
Rules and Regulations Table of Contents:
• Series 10000: Board Governance
• Series 20000: Administration
• Series 30000: Personnel
• Series 40000: Academic Issues
• Series 50000: Student Issues
• Series 60000: Development
• Series 70000: Investments
• Series 80000: Facilities
• Series 90000: Intellectual Property
Webpage: http://www.utsystem.edu/bor/rules/
Texas State Law
All members of the UTMB community should at all times be cognizant of and comply with state and local liquor laws. It is unlawful in the state of Texas for any person under the age of 21 to possess, purchase, or drink alcoholic beverages, except when with either a parent or adult spouse.
Providing alcoholic beverages to minors other than where the law provides is prohibited. A violation of this policy subjects the offender(s) to internal disciplinary and/or law enforcement action, which may include a court appearance citation or arrest.
Possession and Consumption
UTMB is committed to the creation of an institutional environment where students, residents, fellows, faculty and other employees learn to cope with stress and anxiety without the use of mood-altering substances. The unlawful and/or unauthorized possession, use, distribution and sale of alcohol or illicit drugs are prohibited on UTMB property. All applicable statutes are strictly enforced, and those who engage in prohibited activity may face criminal prosecution. In addition, UTMB students and employees are subject to disciplinary sanctions under University procedures.
The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession or use of illegal drugs on campus or at any UTMB sponsored event off campus is prohibited. No one may use any illegal substances, or abuse legal substances, including alcohol, in a manner that impairs performance of assigned tasks. Texas law prohibits the medically unsupervised use, possession, sale, manufacture or distribution of drugs classified as illegal or the use, possession, sale, manufacture, or distribution of prescription medication used in an illegal manner or used in a manner other than that is prescribed. Individuals determined to be in violation are criminally prosecuted and referred for possible disciplinary action.
The use of alcohol must be in compliance with Texas State Law and is strictly limited to persons 21 years of age or older. The possession, transportation, consumption and/or sale of alcohol by or to persons less than 21 years of age are strictly prohibited (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code 106.02, 106.04, 106.05, 106.06).
UTMB police officers enforce laws regulating the use of alcoholic beverages and underage drinking. Officers may issue court appearance citations or make an arrest if required by law. Student violators may also be referred for disciplinary action. Alcoholic beverages may not be consumed or possessed in public areas of the university. Regarding the possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages, state law will be strictly enforced on campus at all times. http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/ AL/htm/AL.106.htm
Drugs
The unlawful manufacture, sale, distribution, dispensing, possession or use of a controlled substance in or on any premises or property owned or controlled by UTMB is prohibited. For more information, see IHOP Policy 8.1.9: Manufacture, Sale, Possession, Distribution or Use of Alcohol, Controlled Substances or Illegal Drugs (https://www.utmb.edu/policies_and_ procedures/IHOP/Health_Safety_and_Security/IHOP%20-%2008.01.09%20-%20Manufacture%2C%20Sale%2C%20 Possession%2C%20Distribution%2C%20or%20Use%20of%20Alcohol%2C%20Controlled%20Substances%20 or%20Illegal%20Drugs.pdf). A controlled substance is any substance so defined by federal or state statute or regulation.
Every UTMB student shall be responsible for compliance with all local, state, and federal laws regarding controlled substances including, but not limited to, their use, sale, distribution, possession, or manufacture. Violations of any local, state, or federal law regarding controlled substances may subject the person to UTMB’s disciplinary proceedings without regard to any proceedings in local, state, or federal courts. When the standards of conduct regarding illicit drugs are violated, sanctions may be imposed. Possible sanctions include, but are not limited to, a fine, assignment to community service, suspension, time-frame suspension, or expulsion.
Sanctions upon conviction in the criminal court system for possession, distribution, or manufacture of controlled substances range from fines and probation to imprisonment. Amounts of fines, terms of probation, or years of imprisonment generally are contingent upon the circumstances and amounts of drugs in possession, sale, distribution, or manufacture.
Texas State Law
UTMB Police Department enforces all state and federal laws that prohibit the possession or sale of illegal drugs or drug parapher- nalia. In addition, the Rules and Regulations of the Board of Regents provide for suspension of students found guilty of possession of drugs on campus. Board of Regents Rules- Series 50101, Art.2, Sec.2.3.
Web page: http://www.utsystem.edu/bor/rules/
University Education Programs
In accordance with section 120 (a) through (d) of the Higher Education Act of 1965, UTMB publishes and distributes a publication, Maintaining a Drug-Free Campus at UTMB, that provides information on UTMB health resources and counseling, community resources in Galveston County, health risks associated with the abuse of alcohol and other drugs, applicable UTMB policies and standards of conduct, and penalties under state and federal law. For more information, see: https://www.utmb.edu/security-safety/drug-free.
Sexual Assault Policy Statement
Sexual Assault Prevention and Response
UTMB will not tolerate sexual assault in any form, including acquaintance rape. Sexual assault refers to rape as well as other forms of non-consensual sexual activity. Sexual assault, as defined by IHOP Policy 3.2.4, is an offense that meets the definition of rape, fondling, incest or statutory rape. Sexual assault is a crime.
A UTMB student or employee charged with sexual assault can be prosecuted under state criminal statutes and/or disciplined under the UTMB IHOP Policy 3.2.4.
The UTMB Police Department offers a 12-hour Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) class, which is also taught by other law enforcement agencies nationally, and in Canada, and is endorsed by the International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators (I.A.C.L.E.A.). The RAD approach to personal safety education embodies a practical blend of rape awareness, awareness of other sex offenses, threat avoidance strategies and real-world assault resistance tactics. The focus of the RAD course of instruction is on the development of easily mastered personal safety skills, which can be safely practiced within a comfortable learning environment, and the coupling of those physical skills with a threat assessment process, which will increase physical safety awareness. The overall goal is to reduce victimization through informed decision-making and sensible action. The classes are free of charge to all females age 12 or older (ages 12-17 require parent/guardian consent) http:// www.utmb.edu/police/.
All students who complete the course receive a lifetime return and practice policy at any RAD Basic Physical Defense Program offered anywhere, regardless of instructor. The student may return as often as she wishes, free of charge.
More on Prevention and Response
If a sex offense occurs, students are advised to notify either on-campus UTMB PD or local police immediately. Time is important in order to preserve evidence since time is a critical factor for collection and preservation of evidence helpful in prosecution, which cannot be obtained later. It is also strongly recommended that students seek medical treatment immediately. Campus authorities will assist students in notifying the police if requested. UTMB will provide written notification to students and employees about existing counseling, health, mental health, victim advocacy, legal assistance, visa and immigration assistance, student financial aid and other services available for victims. UTMB will also provide written notification to victims about options for, available assistance in, and how to request changes to academic, living, transportation and working situations or protective
measures. UTMB must make such accommodations or provide protective measures if the victim requests them and if they are reasonably available, regardless of whether the victim choses to report the crime to the police. For more information, please contact the Title IX Coordinator at 409-772-2112 or Title.IX@utmb.edu.
Disciplinary action against faculty and employees will be handled under IHOP Policy 3.1.9: Discipline, Dismissal and Appeal for Classified Employees or IHOP Policy 5.3.10: Termination of a Faculty Member. UTMB Police Officers are subject to disciplinary action in accordance with The University of Texas System Police Policy 208, Discipline and Appeal Procedure. Disciplinary actions for individuals not covered under the previously mentioned policies may include, but are not limited to, written reprimands, the imposition of conditions, reassignment, suspension, and dismissal. Any disciplinary action against a student will be handled under IHOP Policy 7.1.3: Student Conduct and Discipline. Student disciplinary actions may include, but are not limited to, probation, suspension, or expulsion. Additionally, both accuser and accused are entitled to the same opportunities to have an advisor present during a campus disciplinary proceeding, and both the accuser and the accused shall be informed of the outcome of any campus disciplinary proceedings pertaining to sexual assault.
In accordance with IHOP Policy 3.1.9: Discipline, Dismissal and Appeal for Classified Employees, employees who receive disciplinary actions resulting in dismissal, suspension without pay, or demotion may appeal by submitting a written request to Human Resources - Employee Relations within ten business days following the date of the disciplinary action. An appeal hearing may be delayed until the conclusion of an investigation conducted by the Department of Internal Investigations into unlawful discrimination, sexual harassment and sexual misconduct, or retaliation. In accordance with IHOP Policy 5.3.10: Termination of a Faculty Member, faculty members have the right to file a grievance related to their termination. The faculty member who is the subject of the allegations that involve the potential for termination will be given an opportunity to be interviewed and will have the right to present a grievance, in person or through a representative, to the Provost, or the individual designated by the President, on an issue or subject related to the allegations under review. Failure to present a grievance to the Provost, or the individual designated by the President, prior to his or her recommendation for termination will not preclude the faculty member from presenting an issue or subject to the special hearing tribunal in defense of charges for termination that may result from the review.
For more information about these policies see:
• IHOP Policy 7.1.3: Student Conduct and Discipline: http://www.utmb.edu/policies_and_procedures/40849072
• IHOP Policy 5.3.10: Termination of a Faculty Member: https://www.utmb.edu/policies_and_procedures/IHOP/Faculty/IHOP%20-%2005.03.10%20-%20Termination.pdf
An individual who experiences sexual assault is encouraged to seek immediate medical care. Emergency medical care can be provided at UTMB’s Emergency Department (901 Harborside Drive, Galveston, Texas 77550) or any other hospital emergency room.
Preserving DNA evidence is vital to identifying the perpetrator in a sexual violence case. Victims should not shower, bathe, or douche in order to preserve evidence. They should also bring the clothes they were wearing during the assault to the hospital. Victims can undergo a medical exam to preserve physical evidence with or without police involvement. If possible, this should be done immediately. If an immediate medical exam is not possible, individuals who have experienced a sexual assault may have a Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (SAFE) performed by a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) within four (4) days of the incident. With the examinee’s consent, the physical evidence collected during this medical exam can be used in a criminal investigation or may be helpful in obtaining a protective order; however, a person may undergo a SAFE even without contacting or intending to contact the police. To undergo a SAFE, go directly to UTMB’s Emergency Department. UTMB’s Emergency Department has registered SANE nurses who have been specifically trained to provide comprehensive care to sexual assault survivors.
For more information about the SAFE, see https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/victims/sapcs.shtml#survivors. The cost of the forensic portion of the exam is covered by the law enforcement agency that is investigating the assault or, in cases where a report will not be made to the police, the Texas Department of Public Safety. This does not include fees related to medical treatment that are not a part of the SAFE.
UTMB encourages individuals who have experienced sexual misconduct to make a report to the police. It is important to note that a police department’s geographic jurisdiction depends on where the sexual misconduct occurred. If the incident occurred on the UTMB campus, a report may be filed with the UTMB Police Department by calling 911 if emergency or if non-emergency
(409) 772-2691 or in person at UTMB police headquarters in Rebecca Sealy 2.712 even if time has passed since the assault occurred. If the assault occurs off campus, the UTMB Police will assist a victim with notifying the appropriate law enforcement agency having police jurisdiction where the crime occurred.
Reporting an assault to law enforcement does not mean that the case will automatically go to criminal trial or to a UTMB disciplinary hearing. If UTMB Police are called, a uniformed officer will be sent to the scene to take a detailed statement. A ride to the hospital may be provided by the UTMB Police. A report may be filed with the UTMB Police Department, even if the assailant was not a UTMB student or employee. If the incident occurred in the City of Galveston, but off campus, a report may be filed with the Galveston Police Department, even if time has passed since the assault occurred. If a report is made to the police, a uniformed officer will usually be dispatched to the location to take a written report.
An individual who experiences any form of sexual violence may pursue civil or criminal remedies provided by law, including a protective order. A protective order is a civil court order issued to prevent continuing acts of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault or stalking. This may be issued by a court if it is determined on a case-by-case basis by the court that these offenses have occurred and is likely to occur again. Although UTMB does not issue orders of protection, UTMB’s Police Department can assist with filing any protective orders. UTMB complies with applicable laws in recognizing and enforcing orders of protection. More information about protective orders can be found on the Texas Attorney General’s website: https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/cvs/protective-orders. In order to file a request for a protective order, visit the Texas Attorney General’s website and fill out the forms in their protective order kit (Application for Protective Order, Temporary Ex Parte Protective Order, Protective Order, Respondent Information), make two copies of the forms, and file them at the courthouse in the county where you live or the respondent lives. Instruction sheets are also available on the website for each form. However, if you have any questions about protective orders, you can call the Texas Attorney General’s Family Violence Legal Line at: 1-800-374-HOPE. If you receive a protective order, give the signed order to the court clerk and request extra copies. Keep a copy of this order with you at all times. Also, you may provide a copy of the order to UTMB Police. If you are in danger, call the police (911), and show them your protective order.
UTMB’s Title IX Office may also issue no contact orders, and the UTMB Police Department may issue no trespass directives. These will be issued on a case-by-basis basis when considering the nature of the allegations and any threats that may have occurred. In order to make a request for these protective options or to get additional information, contact either UTMB’s Department of Internal Investigations at 409-772-2112 or UTMB’s Police Department at 409-772-1111 (Emergency) or 409772-2691 (Non-Emergency). UTMB will enforce no contact orders and no trespass directives that have been issued. If either of these protective options are violated once issued, the victim should contact the department that issued it. Also, in an emergency situation, contact the UTMB Police at 409-772-1111. There are also emergency telephones installed in elevators on campus. A website map of emergency telephone locations can be found online at: Blue Phone Locations. UTMB students may report sexual
assaults to UTMB’s Police Department or any other UTMB campus security authority whether the assault occurs on or off campus and no matter who the alleged assailant is. Reporting a sexual assault to UTMB officials or filing a police report does not automatically initiate criminal charges.
The UTMB Police Department will investigate all sexual assault complaints with sensitivity, compassion, patience and respect for the victim. Investigations are conducted in accordance with guidelines established by state laws and the Galveston (Texas) County District Attorney’s Office, 600 59th Street, Suite 1001, Galveston, Texas 77552-7254, Tel: 409- 766-2355, http://www.galvestoncountytx.gov/da/Pages/default.aspx.
In accordance with the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Art. 58, victims may use a pseudonym to protect their identity.
A pseudonym is a set of initials or a fictitious name chosen by the victim to be used in all public files and records concerning the sexual assault. Victims of sexual assault are not required to file criminal charges. https:// statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/CR/htm/CR.58.htm
UTMB students may report sexual assaults to UTMB Police Department or any other Campus Security Authority. However, reporting a sexual assault to anyone other than police will delay criminal investigation and possibly hinder criminal prosecution. Victims can also report sexual misconduct to UTMB’s Title IX Coordinator at 409-772-2112 or Title.IX@utmb.edu.
Medical care can be provided at UTMB’s Student Health and Counseling (for students only), at a local emergency room, or by a private physician. Psychological support can be provided by Student Health and Counseling (students), a referral from Student Health and Counseling, Employee Assistance Program (employees), a referral through the Employee Assistance Program, or a care provider of the individual’s choosing.
A person who has experienced sexual violence is strongly encouraged to seek medical and psychological care even if he or she does not plan to request a SAFE or report the assault to the police. He or she may be prescribed medications to prevent sexually transmitted infections and/or pregnancy even if the police are not contacted or if a SAFE is not performed. Students desiring counseling should contact: Student Health & Counseling, Lee Hage Jamail Student Center – 3rd Floor, Monday –Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., 409-747-9508, After Hours Care: 409-772-2222 or 800-917-8906. Faculty and staff should contact: Employee Assistance Program: 409-772-2485 or 888-870-8553. Also, an off-campus rape crisis center may be utilized. One of these options includes: Resource & Crisis Center of Galveston County, Inc., Local 24 Hour Hotline: 409-765-SAFE (7233), Free 24 Hour Hotline: 1-888-919-SAFE (7233), www.rccgc.org.
Remember-If you have been sexually assaulted: Call UTMB Police Department 911 (on campus). From a cell phone or off-campus phone line, call 409-772-1111. DO NOT shower, bathe, or douche.
Have a trusted friend take you to UTMB Emergency Room/Trauma Center Hospital or to the hospital that is nearest to the location where the sexual assault took place. Take the clothes in which you were assaulted with you to the hospital. Remember it is not your fault.
NON-REPORTED SEXUAL ASSAULT EVIDENCE PROGRAM
The Non-Reported Sexual Assault Evidence Program was created in House Bill 2626 by the 81st Texas Legislature and went into effect June 21, 2009. The program allows survivors of a sexual assault to obtain a forensic medical exam and have evidence collected, without cost to the victim, even if they do not wish to involve law enforcement personnel at the time of its collection. This will secure the evidence while giving the victim time to consider if they want to report the assault to law enforcement officials. Victims may contact the UTMB Police Department by dialing 911 (on-campus Galveston locations), or 409-772-1111 (cell phones and/or off campus locations, including UTMB facilities not located on the Galveston campus), http://www.utmb.edu/police/. There are also emergency telephones installed in elevators on campus. See the following website for a map of emergency telephone locations: Blue Phone Locations.
Instructions for Submitting Non-Reported Sexual Assault Kits to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS): https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/crime-laboratory
Notice of Nondiscrimination
The University of Texas Medical Branch, in compliance with applicable federal laws and regulations, strives to maintain an environment free from discrimination against individuals on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or veteran status. This includes all programs, facilities or services and applies to all employees and students, and anyone who utilizes UTMB facilities.
Per IHOP Policy 3.2.4: Sexual Misconduct, sexual misconduct is a form of sex discrimination and will not be tolerated. Additionally, UTMB prohibits the crimes of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking as those terms are defined for Clery Act purposes. For purposes of IHOP Policy 3.2.4, sexual misconduct is a broad term encompassing a range of non-consensual sexual activity or unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature. It includes sexual harassment, sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, sexual exploitation, sexual intimidation, and other inappropriate sexual conduct. Individuals who engage in sexual misconduct will be subject to disciplinary action.
Title IX, a federal civil rights law which requires that if a school (or its employees) knows or reasonably should know about sexual misconduct, the school must take immediate action to eliminate the behavior, prevent its recurrence, and address its effects. To report situations or for more information, contact: The Department of Internal Investigations and Institutional Title IX Office, Office of Legal and Regulatory Affairs, 409-772- 2112 or Title.IX@utmb.edu.
Proceedings
Allegations of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking are processed under IHOP Policy 3.2.4: Sexual Misconduct. When a student or employee reports being a victim of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking, whether the offense occurred on or off campus, UTMB will provide a written explanation of rights and options. UTMB may offer a range of supportive measures to victims following allegations of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking. These protective measures include but are not limited to: no contact directives, restricted access notices, no trespassing notices, security escorts, modifications to class schedules and academic requirements and modifications to living and/or working environments.
Investigations will be conducted in a prompt, fair and impartial manner from the initial investigation to the final result. The complainant and the respondent will be provided with equal opportunities in all aspects of the process, including notices and advisor representation during any related proceedings and/or meetings. UTMB will not limit the choice of advisors or their presence in any meeting or institutional disciplinary proceeding. However, UTMB may establish restrictions regarding the extent to which the advisor may participate in proceedings, which will apply equally to both the complainant and the respondent. Investigations will be conducted by individuals who, at a minimum, receive annual training on the issues related to dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking and on how to conduct an investigation and hearing process that protect the safety of the victims and promotes accountability. Investigations under this policy involve the preponderance of the evidence standard of evidence.
Under Title IX regulations, universities are required to distinguish between prohibited conduct specifically “under Title IX” and other prohibited conduct that is a violation of IHOP Policy 3.2.4: Sexual Misconduct. The Title IX (Grievance Process) only applies where the accused is a student or employee at UTMB at the time of the alleged conduct; the conduct alleged is Sexual Harassment under IHOP Policy 3.2.4: Sexual Misconduct; the alleged conduct occurred against a person in the United States; and where the Complainant was participating or attempting to participate in an education program or activity at UTMB. Prohibited conduct that does not fall under Title IX may be processed under IHOP Policy 3.2.4: Sexual Misconduct via the Alternative Grievance Process.
Grievance Process
To begin the investigation process, the complainant should sign and submit a formal complaint (written statement) to UTMB’s Title IX Office/Department of Internal Investigations at: Title.IX@utmb.edu, which includes the following: a) Complainant’s name and contact information; b) The name of the person directly responsible for the alleged violation; c) A detailed description of the conduct or event that is the basis of the alleged violation; d) The date(s) and location(s) of the occurrence(s); e) The names of any witnesses to the occurrence(s); f) The resolution sought; and g) Any documents or information that is relevant to the complaint.
Individuals can also make a complaint via phone by calling: 409-772-2112 or in person (by appointment only) at: Rebecca Sealy building, 404 8th Street, Suite 2.318, Galveston, TX 77555-0134. Reporting sexual misconduct incidents informs UTMB of the incident, which allows UTMB to provide supportive measures.
A signed formal complaint may be filed by either the Complainant or the Title IX Coordinator. A formal complaint initiates the Grievance Process. If a formal complaint is filed and the alleged conduct does not meet the required criteria under Title IX, the formal complaint will be dismissed. Additionally, UTMB may dismiss a Formal Complaint under Title IX, at its discretion, under this Policy’s Grievance Process for any of the following circumstances:
If the Complainant requests in writing to dismiss a Formal Complaint (e.g. withdraws the Formal Complaint or any allegations therein);
If the Respondent was an employee and is no longer employed by UTMB;
Any specific circumstances that prevent UTMB from gathering evidence sufficient to reach a determination as to the Formal Complaint or any allegations therein; or
The conduct alleged does not meet the definition of any prohibited conduct under IHOP 3.2.4 Sexual Misconduct.
Both parties will be notified in writing of the dismissal and that they have equal opportunity to appeal this decision in writing to the Title IX Coordinator within five (10) calendar days of notification of the dismissal.
An investigator will be assigned to investigate the complaint. As part of the investigation process, the complainant and the respondent will be provided written notice of the complaint and allowed a reasonable time to respond in writing. The complainant and the respondent may present any document or information that is believed to be relevant to the complaint. Persons thought to have information relevant to the complaint will be interviewed, if available, and those interviews will be appropriately documented. Both the respondent and the complainant may recommend witnesses for interview and suggest questions that should be asked. Neither the complainant nor the respondent will normally attend these interviews or the gathering of evidence; however, if either one is permitted to attend, the other will have the same right. The preponderance of the evidence standard of review is utilized.
The investigation of a complaint will be concluded as soon as possible after receipt of the complaint. Best efforts will be made to complete the process in a timely manner by balancing principles of thoroughness and fundamental fairness with promptness. After the investigation is complete, a written report will be issued to the Title IX Coordinator.
Under the Grievance Process, the investigator will provide access to all evidence obtained as part of the investigation to both parties (and the party’s advisor, if any, upon a party’s signed information release for their advisor of choice). Both parties will have 10 days to inspect, review, and respond to the evidence. All responses to the evidence must be submitted by the party in writing to the investigator. Advisors are not permitted to submit written responses to the evidence on their own or on behalf of the party they are advising. The completed investigation report will outline each of the allegations that potentially constitutes prohibited conduct under IHOP Policy 3.2.4: Sexual Misconduct, provide the timeline (e.g. procedural steps) of the investigation, and fairly summarize relevant evidence, participant statements, and responses to questions. The investigator will provide a completed investigation report concurrently to both parties and each party’s advisor upon a party’s signed information release for their advisor of choice at least 10 days prior to the date of the scheduled live hearing. This hearing is for the purposes of determining responsibility under IHOP 3.2.4 and allows for cross examination of the parties and relevant witnesses through a live or virtual hearing. The hearing panel will send a copy of the written determination concurrently to the parties within 21 days from when the hearing concludes which must include the allegations, factual findings, rationale for the findings, procedural
steps, disciplinary sanctions and remedies designed to restore the Complainant’s access to the education program or activity. An avenue for appeal of the hearing panel’s determination may be available under the Grievance Process and the bases for any appeal will also be included in the hearing panel’s written determination.
Alternative Grievance Process
In contrast to the Grievance Process, the parties will not receive a copy of the completed investigation report under the Alternative Grievance Process. The investigation report will include factual findings and a preliminary conclusion of whether a policy violation occurred. After the written report is completed, the complainant and respondent will receive notification of the outcome of the investigation in writing via email. The letter will summarize the findings of the investigation in compliance with FERPA and the Texas Education Code, Section 51.971. The letter will contain enough detail to allow the parties to comment on the adequacy of the investigation or the findings. Each will have seven (7) business days from the date that the email was sent to submit written comments regarding the investigation to the Title IX Coordinator. Within seven (7) business days after the deadline for receipt of comments from the parties, the Title IX Coordinator or his or her designee will: (1) Request further investigation into the complaint; (2) Dismiss the complaint if it is determined that no violation of policy or inappropriate conduct occurred; or (3) Find that the Policy was violated. If it is determined that the Policy was violated, the matter will be referred to the appropriate disciplinary process. The complainant and the respondent will be informed concurrently in writing of the decision. When applicable, the appropriate administrator will impose disciplinary action or sanction(s) in accordance with the applicable policies and procedures dependent on the status of the respondent (i.e., student, faculty or employee).
If an individual would like to file a complaint under the informal resolution process, they should contact the Title IX Office. At any time during the informal resolution process, the complainant may elect to discontinue the informal resolution process and file a formal complaint. If the Title IX Coordinator or designee deems informal assistance appropriate, then the individual will be provided assistance in informally resolving the alleged sexual misconduct. The Title IX Coordinator determines which method of resolution is appropriate based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to the nature of the concerns, the frequency of the alleged acts, the relationship of the individuals involved, etc. Assistance may include providing the complainant with strategies for communicating to the offending party that his or her behavior is unwelcomed and should cease, directing a UTMB official to inform the offending party to stop the unwelcomed conduct, or initiating mediation.
However, UTMB may take formal action, including disciplinary action, to ensure an environment free of sexual harassment or sexual misconduct. Informal resolution is not permitted for sexual violence cases. A complainant with a complaint other than sexual violence may use this option instead of or before filing a formal complaint but is not required to do so. Informal resolutions should be completed as soon as possible after the Title IX Coordinator determines the method of resolution to be utilized and notifies the complainant of this method.
After an investigation determining responsibility under IHOP Policy 3.2.4: Sexual Misconduct, sanctions for dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking may include: educational training; no shared classes or extra-curricular activities; disciplinary probation; withholding of grades, official transcript, and/or degree; bar against readmission, bar against enrollment, drop from one or more classes, and/or withdrawal from the University; suspension of rights and privileges, including but not limited to participation in athletic or extracurricular activities; denial of degree; suspension from the University for a specific period of time; expulsion (permanent separation from the University); revocation of degree and withdrawal of diploma; employment probation; job demotion or reassignment; suspension with or without pay for a specific period of time; dismissal or termination; ineligibility for rehire; and/or other sanction(s) or remedies as deemed appropriate under the circumstances.
Confidentiality
UTMB has great respect for the privacy of the parties in a complaint. Under federal law, however, Responsible Employees who receive a report of sexual misconduct must share that information with the Title IX Coordinator and/or a Deputy Coordinator. Those individuals may need to act to maintain campus safety and must determine whether to investigate further under Title IX, regardless of the complainant’s request for confidentiality. Responsible employees include all UTMB employees who are not confidential employees.
In the course of the investigation, UTMB may share information only as necessary with people who need to know to fulfill the purposes of policies and applicable laws, such as investigators, witnesses, and the respondent. The Title IX Coordinator determines the extent of information that is disclosed and to who based on various factors, such as the applicable laws and the nature of the concerns. UTMB will take all reasonable steps to ensure there is no retaliation against a complainant. UTMB will comply with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), with Texas Education Code Sec. 51.971 and other confidentiality laws as they apply to Title IX investigations. While UTMB cannot guarantee anonymity, UTMB will protect the privacy of all parties to a report of sexual misconduct, to the extent possible.
UTMB will confidentially maintain information related to complaints under IHOP Policy 3.2.4: Sexual Misconduct, as required by law. The Title IX Coordinator will document each complaint or request for assistance under IHOP Policy 3.2.4, whether made by a victim, a third party, or anonymously, and will review and retain copies of all reports generated as a result of investigations. These records will be kept confidential to the extent permitted by law. Any person who knowingly and intentionally makes an unauthorized disclosure of confidential information contained in a complaint or otherwise related to the investigation of a complaint under IHOP Policy 3.2.4 is subject to disciplinary action.
UTMB completes publicly available recordkeeping, such as Clery Act reporting and disclosures, without inclusion of personally identifying information about the victim. Additionally, UTMB keeps information regarding accommodations or protective measures provided to the victim confidential to the extent that maintaining such confidentiality would not impair the ability of UTMB to provide the accommodations or protective measures.
Victims’ Rights - Involvement of Law Enforcement
Victims have the option to notify law enforcement, including UTMB police or other local police departments. Victims also have the right to decline to notify these authorities. Campus authorities can also assist victims in notifying law enforcement if they choose to do so. To report crime to the police, contact UTMB Police Department either in person at the UTMB Police Department, 404 8th Street, room #2.712, 2nd floor of the Rebecca Sealy Bldg., Galveston, TX 77555-0101, or by telephone by dialing Emergency 911, Non-Emergency 2-1111, 2-1154, or 2-2691 (on-campus Galveston locations), or 409-772-1111 (cell phones and/or off campus locations, including UTMB facilities not located on the Galveston campus). If you would like assistance in notifying law enforcement, contact the Department of Internal Investigations at 409-772-2112.
Role: Title IX Coordinator and Department of Internal Investigations
All administrators, faculty, staff, students, and third parties are strongly encouraged to immediately report any incidents of sexual misconduct to the Title IX Coordinator or Deputy Coordinators. The role of the Title IX Coordinator and Department of Internal Investigations when a report of sexual violence, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking is received;
• The Title IX Coordinator is the senior UTMB administrator who oversees the University’s compliance with Title IX.
• The Title IX Coordinator is responsible for administrative response to reports and formal complaints of sexual misconduct and is available to discuss options, provide support, explain UTMB policies and procedures, and provide education on relevant issues.
• The Title IX Coordinator will ensure that complaints are properly investigated under the Sexual Misconduct Policy 3.2.4.
• The Title IX Coordinator will also ensure that investigators are properly trained at least annually to conduct investigations that occur under this Policy.
• The Title IX Deputy Coordinators shall supervise and advise the Title IX investigators when conducting investigations and update the Title IX Coordinator as necessary.
• The Title IX Coordinator or designee will conduct a preliminary assessment of the complaint, notify the complainant of the methods of resolution and provide individualized supportive measures to the parties.
• After receiving a complaint, the Title IX Coordinator or Deputy Coordinator will refer the complainant to Student Health and Counseling for students or Employee Assistance Program for employees for available resources and assistance.
Title IX Coordinator
To report sexual misconduct to the Title IX Coordinator contact: Dr. Marquita M. Booker, J.D., Executive Director of the Department of Internal Investigations and Institutional Title IX Coordinator, Office of Legal and Regulatory Affairs, 409-772-2112 or Title.IX@utmb.edu.
Weapons Policy
Campus Carry
The Texas Legislature passed Senate Bill 11, which permits concealed handgun license (CHL) holders to carry concealed handguns on public university campuses beginning August 1, 2016. By law, a CHL holder must be at least 21 years old (unless active duty military), be a resident of Texas, and meet other requirements such as no record of a felony conviction. The law defines “campus” as all land and buildings owned or leased by an institution of higher education. It states, “A license holder may carry a concealed handgun on or about the license holder’s person while the license holder is on the campus of an institution of higher education or private or independent institution of higher education in this state.”
Concealment/Storage
A concealed handgun in the possession of a CHL holder on the UTMB campus must remain concealed (a) in a holster that attaches to the body or (b) carried in a closely-controlled object in a holster or trigger-locked condition. Storage of a handgun is not allowed on the UTMB campus with the exception of approved storage in University-controlled residential housing which is leased by the CHL or in a locked, privately owned or leased vehicle.
Areas of UTMB Where Weapons are Not Permitted
• Patient Care Areas
• Laboratory Areas
• Animal Care Areas
• Buildings and Structures Providing Critical Utility Services to Patient Care Areas
• Health Care Training Simulation Centers and Anatomy Facilities
• Moody Medical Library
• UTMB Alumni Fieldhouse
• Leased Space – (a) Any premises leased to UTMB (Lessee) by a third party (Lessor) from which the Lessor has excluded concealed handguns as permitted by law; and (b) Any premises leased to a third party (Lessee) by UTMB (Lessor) from which the Lessee prohibits handguns as permitted by law.
Carrying of a concealed handgun in the following buildings or facilities is strictly prohibited. Carrying handguns in these areas is incompatible with the local environment or the discharge of a handgun has the potential to cause unexpected or widespread catastrophic harm or irreplaceable loss.
UTMB Exclusion of Concealed Handguns by CHL Holders
1
087
011
007
008
014
006
020
017
021
041
002
073
071
059
054
019
036
040
061
066
004
057
PRIMARY CARE PAVILION
JOHN W MCCULLOUGH BLDG
CLINICAL SCIENCES BLDG
J.S. ANNEX FR. OLD CHILDRENS
LEE HAGE JAMAIL STUDENT CTR
RESEARCH BUILDING 6
ANIMAL RESOURCE CENTER
RESEARCH BUILDING 17
RESEARCH BUILDING 21
GALVESTON NATIONAL LAB
KEILLER BUILDING
Patient care
Research
Research
Research
Research
Research
Research
NMR DOCKSIDE BLDG Research
MAURICE EWING HALL
T.G. BLOCKER MED RES BLDG
BASIC SCIENCE BUILDING
MARY MOODY NORTHEN PAV
EAST PLANT
CENTRAL ENERGY PLANT
SERVICES BUILDING
WEST END CHILL WATER PLANT
MARVIN R. GRAVES BUILDING
SCH HLTH PROFESSIONS & NURS
121 REBECCA SEALY
070
075
1003 MARKET ST (ANATOMY LAB)
ALUMNI FIELDHOUSE
024 MOODY MEDICAL LIBRARY
Research
Research
Research
Research
Health system infrastructure
Health system infrastructure
Health system infrastructure
Health system infrastructure
Health care simulation
Health care simulation
Health care simulation
Gowning/un-gowning
Exercise facility
Rare book collection
UTMB Exclusion of Concealed Handguns by CHL Holders
Section 2 - Additional Buildings:
Galveston, League City, Angleton-Danbury, Other Sites List of Excluded Buildings
BUILDING NAME*
Family Medicine Island West
BASIS FOR EXCLUSION
Patient care
Pediatric Primary Care Island West Patient care
Pediatric Urgent Care Island West
League City Campus; Stark Diabetes Ctr (all)
Angleton-Danbury Clinical Campus (all)
Alvin Community Clinics (all)
Angleton-Danbury Community Clinics (all)
Friendswood/Clear Lake/Webster Community Clinics (all)
Lake Jackson Community Clinics (all)
League City/Dickinson Community Clinics (all)
Texas City Community Clinics (all)
Regional Maternal Child Health Clinics (all)
Patient care
Patient care
Patient care
Patient care
Patient care
Patient care
Patient care
Patient care
Patient care
Patient care
UTMB Exclusion of Concealed Handguns by CHL Holders
Section 3 – Privately Controlled Buildings (UTMB as Guest/Lessee) Owner Has Authority to Decide
BUILDING NAME*
123 25th St., Galveston (Shearn Moody Plaza)
4700 Broadway, Galveston (Island Comm Center)
BASIS FOR EXCLUSION
Concealed/Open Carry Prohibited
Concealed/Open Carry Prohibited
215 Market, Galveston (Carelton Courtyard Apt) Open Carry Prohibited
2200 Market Street, Galveston (Bank of America)
2201 Market Street, Galveston (Frost Bank)
20738 Gulf Freeway, Webster
9300 EF Lowry Expressway, Texas City
1005 Congress Avenue, Austin
304 Tanglewood Drive, Dickinson
1560 W Bay Area Blvd, Friendswood
2400 Avenue I, Huntsville
3049 Cedar Drive, La Marque
12603 SW Freeway, Suite 335, Stafford
restrictions
restrictions
restrictions
For more information, see IHOP Policy 8.2.9: Concealed Handguns on UTMB’s Campus
https://www.utmb.edu/policies_and_procedures/IHOP/Health_Safety_and_Security/IHOP%20-%2008.02.09%20 -%20Concealed%20Carry%20of%20Handguns%20on%20UTMBs%20Campus.pdf. This policy provides the rules that govern the concealed carry of handguns on the campus of the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in compliance with §411.2031 of the Texas Government Code http://www.statutes.legis.state. tx.us/Docs/GV/htm/GV.411.htm.
• “On the physical premises of a school or educational institution, any grounds or building on which an activity sponsored by a school or educational institution is being conducted” unless it is pursuant to written regulations or written authorization of the institution or the person possesses or goes with a concealed handgun that the person is licensed to carry under Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code. (Sec. 46.03(1)).
• “On the premises of any government court or offices utilized by the court, unless pursuant to written regulations or written authorization by the court.” (Sec. 46.03(2)).
• “On the premises of a hospital licensed under Chapter 241, Health and Safety Code” unless the license holder has written authorization of the hospital. (Sec. 46.035(a)(a-3)(b)(4)).
Institutional Handbook of Policies and
Procedures
(IHOP), Section
7.1.3:
Student Conduct and Discipline
According to Institutional Handbook of Policies and Procedures (IHOP), Section 7.1.3: Student Conduct and Discipline, possessing or using any type of explosive, firearm, imitation firearm, ammunition, hazardous chemical, or weapon as defined by state or federal law, while on campus or on any property or in any building or facility owned or controlled by the U.T. System
or UTMB, unless authorized by federal, state or local laws, is subject to discipline. For more information about this policy see: Institutional Handbook of Policies and Procedures (IHOP), Section 7.1.3: Student Conduct and Discipline at: https://www. utmb.edu/policies_and_procedures/IHOP/Student/IHOP%20-%2007.01.03%20-%20Student%20Conduct%20 and%20Discipline.pdf
Missing Student Policy
UTMB Missing Students Who Reside in UTMB On-Campus Housing
Individuals or organizations who have reason to believe that a UTMB student who resides in UTMB on-campus student housing has been missing for 24 hours (even if the report comes an individual who is not affiliated with UTMB), he or she must immediately notify the following:
• UTMB Police Department in person at the UTMB Police Department, 404 8th Street, Room #2.712, 2nd floor of the Rebecca Sealy Bldg., Galveston, TX 77555-0101, or by telephone by dialing Emergency 911, Non-Emergency 2-1111,
• 2-1154, or 2-2691 (on-campus Galveston locations) or 409-772-1111 (cell phones and/or off campus locations including UTMB facilities not located on the Galveston campus). UTMB PD will generate a missing person report and will initiate an investigation.
• Office of Student Life, 409-772-3958, Student Life, Director, Mike Cromie, mcromie@utmb.edu
• University Student Services, 409-747-9055
• School of Medicine, Student Affairs, 409-772-1442
• School of Nursing, Student Affairs, 409-772-8205
• School of Health Professions, Student Affairs, 409-772-9411
• Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Student Affairs, 409-772-4997
• School of Public and Population Health, Student Affairs, 409-772-2515
If a student who resides in UTMB on-campus student housing is officially determined to be missing for 24 hours, UTMB will notify local law enforcement (Galveston Police Department) of the missing student within 24 hours, unless Galveston Police Department is the law enforcement agency that made the determination that the student is missing.
After investigating the missing person report, should UTMB PD determine that the student has been missing for twenty-four hours, UTMB will notify the student’s emergency contact within twenty-four (24) hours after the student is determined to be missing. If the missing student is under the age of eighteen (18), is not an emancipated individual (not legally independent of parents) and has been missing for twenty-four (24) hours, UTMB will notify the student’s custodial parent or legal guardian in addition to notifying the missing person confidential contact within twenty-four (24) hours of the determination that the student is missing.
Missing Person Confidential Contact
In addition to registering a general emergency contact, students residing in on-campus student housing have the option to select a missing person confidential contact to be contacted by UTMB only in the event the student is determined by the police to be missing for twenty-four (24) hours. This contact information will be registered confidentially and will be accessible only to authorized campus officials and may not be disclosed, except to law enforcement personnel in furtherance of a missing person investigation. If a student has selected a missing person confidential contact, UTMB will notify that person within twenty-four (24) hours after the student is determined to be missing.
For more information about missing students and/or confidential contacts, please refer to: Policy 8.2.2: Campus Security Reporting
Contact the UTMB Police Department by phone: at 2-1111 (on-campus Galveston locations) or (409)772-1111 (cell phones and/or off campus locations, including UTMB facilities not located on the Galveston campus) or by website: http://www.utmb.edu/police/.
Hazing
Hazing in state educational institutions is prohibited by both state law and by the Regents’ Rules and Regulations (Series 50101, Section 2). Individuals or organizations engaging in hazing could be subject to fines and charged with criminal offenses. Additionally, the law does not affect or in any way restrict the right of the University to enforce its own rules against hazing. For more information about this policy see: http://www.utsystem.edu/bor/rules/
More on Hazing
Individuals
Texas Education Code Sec. 37.152. - Personal Hazing Offense http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/ED/htm/ED.37.htm#37.152
Organizations
Texas Education Code Sec. 37.153. - Organization Hazing Offense http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/ED/htm/ED.37.htm#37.153
Definition
The term “hazing” is broadly defined by the Texas Education Code to mean any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, occurring on or off the campus of an educational institution, by one person alone or acting with others, directed against a student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in an organization. Hazing includes, but is not limited to: any type of physical brutality, such as whipping, beating, striking, branding, electronic shocking, placing of a harmful substance on the body, or similar activity; any type of physical activity, such as sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement in a small space, calisthenics, or other activity that subject the student to unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student; any activity involving the consumption of a food, liquid, alcoholic beverage, liquor, drug or other substance that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student; any activity that intimidates or threatens the student with ostracism, that subjects the student to extreme mental stress, shame or humiliation, that adversely affects the mental health or dignity of the student or discourages the student from entering or remaining registered in an educational institution, or that may reasonably be expected to cause a student to leave the organization or the institution rather than submit to acts described in this subdivision; and any activity that induces, causes, or requires the student to perform a duty or task that involves a violation of the Penal Code. Sec. 37.151(6). The fact that a person consented to or acquiesced in a hazing activity is not a defense to prosecution. Sec. 37.154.
Texas Education Code – Sec. 37.155, 37.157 & 37.152
In an effort to encourage reporting of hazing incidents, the law grants immunity from civil or criminal liability to any person who reports a specific hazing event in good faith and without malice to the Dean of Students or other appropriate official of the institution and immunizes that person for participation in any judicial proceeding resulting from that report. Sec. 37.155. http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/ED/htm/ED.37.htm#37.155.
A doctor or other medical practitioner who treats a student who may have been subjected to hazing may make a good faith report of the suspected hazing activities to police or other law enforcement officials and is immune from civil or other liability Sec. 37.157. http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/ED/htm/ED.37.htm#37.157
The penalty for failure to report Hazing is a Class-B Misdemeanor. Sec. 37.152(b). http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/ Docs/ED/htm/ED.37.htm#37.152.
Emergency Notification and Evacuation Procedures
Emergency Notification
Upon the confirmation of a significant emergency or dangerous situation involving an immediate threat to the health or safety of students or staff occurring on the campus, UTMB Leadership, UTMB PD Chief of Police, or his designee, and/ or UTMB Marketing and Communications will utilize the event assessment outcome to conduct a timely review of the circumstances surrounding the event, including the nature and location of an event/crime, in order to determine if/when to disseminate emergency information to the larger community.
If the offense presents a continuing threat or has the potential of becoming an evolving threat and it is determined that a timely warning will be issued, UTMB will immediately notify the campus community unless issuing a notification will compromise law enforcement efforts, efforts to contain the emergency or efforts to assist a victim. UTMB Leadership will also utilize the assessment outcome to determine the scope of the notification. Depending on the size and impact of the event, some, most, or all of the UTMB community will be notified. UTMB will, without delay, and taking into account the safety of the community, determine the content of the notification and initiate the notification system. An emergency broadcast can be triggered by the UTMB Police Department or UTMB Marketing and Communications working on behalf of the institutional emergency preparedness officers. The system is supported by UTMB Information Services and hosted outside the region by a contracted service provider that specializes in this service. A bulletin will be prepared by the UTMB Marketing and Communications. UTMB Leadership and or UTMB PD Chief of Police, or his designee, and or Marketing and Communications, may choose to use UTMB Alerts to deliver emergency notifications using telephone and text messages, the Alert Site webpage (http://www.utmb.edu/emergency_plan/utmbalerts/), the iUTMB homepage (http://www.utmb.edu/police/), the UTMB Police website (http://www.utmb.edu/police/) and/or UTMB Police Campus Crime Alert information site (UTMB Alerts) global broadcast emails, and Facebook and Twitter postings.
UTMB Alerts is a technologically advanced multimodal mass emergency communication tool for the university community. The application replaced an outdated existing email and web and telephone-based emergency communication alert resource. The site was developed to keep students, faculty, staff and the general public informed on the status of the university during emergency situations. The UTMB Alerts system is a single source emergency information notification system on UTMB closures prompted by inclement weather, health and other emergencies. The service can be activated in an emergency situation when there is a risk of significant harm or an urgent threat. When such a threat occurs, a message can be sent to all students, faculty, and staff via multimodal communication media technologies that include telephone and text messages, Alert Site webpage, iUTMB homepage, Global broadcast to e-mails, and Facebook and Twitter postings. All students, faculty, and staff are automatically enrolled in UTMB Alerts. All students, faculty, and staff who subscribe to the system will receive emergency situation communication notification unless the automatically enrolled participant opted to discontinue the subscription.
Maintaining automatic enrollment in UTMB Alerts is strongly recommended. It allows students, faculty, and staff to use the campus directory to designate an email address or telephone number where an email, voice or text message can be quickly sent in an emergency. The emergency contact information stored in the system is not displayed in the directory or used for any other purpose. It is strongly recommended that students, faculty, and staff update the “Edit My Alert Info” section of the directory in order to enter additional emergency contact information and to set the preferred priority order for each point of contact.
The official spokesperson for communicating with external entities during an emergency is the Public Information Officer (PIO), or designee. All external communications will be coordinated through the PIO. At the discretion of the IC, the PIO (Marketing and Communications) will contact the local stations with information about the conditions in Galveston and at UTMB. They may also contact the Texas State Network News with official UTMB announcements.
UTMB officials will make every effort to communicate information to employees and students via all possible technologies and multiple radio and television stations. Employees should stay tuned to radio and television stations to receive news concerning the latest conditions in Galveston. If there is a question about whether or not employees should return to work, they should call their supervisor or the UTMB Information hotline at (409) 77-ALERT, or check UTMB’s web site.
If you have a question or need assistance, call UTMB Marketing and Communications at (409) 772-2618 or contact the UTMB Help Desk at ishelp@utmb.edu.
Emergency Responses & Evacuations
A minimum of two emergency preparedness exercises/drills are conducted each year, separated by at least four months but not more than 8 months. At least annually, each department, school and entity shall review its plan with employees and students; review staffing required for emergency operations and verify personnel information for each employee designated as Essential. Each new employee shall be designated as Essential or Non-essential as part of their initial orientation and shall demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of their duties and responsibilities as related to emergency operations. Also, at least annually the Institutional Emergency Preparedness Officer (IEPO) will convene a meeting of all interested University staff for the purpose of (1) education on the basics of the plan; (2) identification and discussion of any changes in the plan; and (3) affording all present with an opportunity to ask questions about the plan. The IEPO and Program Director for Institutional Preparedness will invite internal and external experts to make presentations for the university community, including National Weather Services officials, City and County emergency management offices, UTMB logistics, Utilities, Maintenance, Police and others.
The President of UTMB is the authority for activation of the Institutional Emergency Operations Plan and Institutional Command Center. If not available, the President may designate an official to take the role of Institutional Incident Commander. If not available to make a designation, the following officials have delegated authority from the President to activate the EOP and Institutional Command Center:
A. Institutional Executive Vice Presidents; Chief Academic Officer
B. Institutional Emergency Preparedness Officer
C. Ranking administrative official on site
D. Director of Institutional Preparedness
After hours, emergency plans may be activated by:
A. Health System Administrator on Call
B. Clinical Operations Administrator
C. Business and Finance Executive On-Call
For External Campuses: When time for emergency response is of the essence, the following officials have delegated authority from the UTMB President to activate campus plans and incident command:
A. Campus Administrator
B. Campus Emergency Preparedness Officer
C. Campus Health System Administrator On-Call
D. Campus Facilities Representative On-Call
For Facilities related incidents, emergency plans may be activated by the Vice President for Business Operations and Facilities or his/her designee. In any case, the first UTMB staff member to become aware of an emergency incident or the first to arrive at the scene of an emergency should report the emergency, and if trained, establish an Incident Command to respond to the emergency in accordance with the National Incident Management System / Incident Command System. As soon as is practical, the incident should be reported to the officials listed above.
For Police actions, the Chief of Police may activate a law enforcement incident command as needed and may delegate authority to police officers as needed. The University of Texas Medical Branch Police Department (UTMB PD) is the primary first responder to any emergency situation on campus. Campus and community emergency responders, such as UTMB’s Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) and/or the Galveston Fire Department, may also respond to the emergency scene, depending on the scope of the emergency. As a state agency, UTMB will coordinate its local efforts with advice and guidance from the University of Texas System and the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) https://tdem.texas.gov/
The University Emergency Management Plan https://www.utmb.edu/emergency_plan/ will be activated and an Emergency Operations Center (EOC)/ Incident Command Post (ICP) established to facilitate decision-making and accomplish the evacuation of patients. The EOC/ICP will act as the central point for communications and implementation of the evacuation plan.
In events where evacuation is anticipated, a UTMB Liaison Officer will be assigned to the City of Galveston EOC. When the City of Galveston orders a general public evacuation, medical support will be furnished by UTMB volunteer resident physicians, nurses, nursing students and medical students under the direction of a senior faculty physician. If a mandatory evacuation order is issued by city or county officials, UTMB will implement staff, student and patient evacuations pursuant to the order.
UTMB gathers information and evaluates each emergency. UTMB uses the information it gathers along with a flow chart diagram (see below) when making a decision to determine if staff, student and patient evacuations are appropriate.
The following information is described in the UTMB Evacuation Procedures Flow Chart Diagram: 1) Information about an emergency event is forwarded to UTMB Leadership who assess the event and develop their scope of the pending incident so that leadership can expand their range of view and create an application for UTMB operations to improve chances for a successful outcome; 2) Leadership personnel assess the event and make a decision to order a “Pre-Evacuation” or wait to reassess event; 3) If a PreEvacuation is warranted, evacuation begins and the sequence of patient evacuation occurs followed by actual evacuation; 4) If a “Shelter in Place” is warranted, the announcement for a “shelter in place” is published; 5) Regardless of the plan (evacuate or shelter in place), the “event” occurs; 6) After the Event occurs, UTMB Leadership re- assesses and determines if danger has passed or if there is still an immediate threat/potential for an evolving threat; and 7) Depending on assessments, no evacuation or an immediate evacuation or a post evacuation response will occur.
In the event of a weather-related emergency, such as a tornado or other severe thunderstorm, students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to heed the following precautions:
• If a tornado warning is issued, seek shelter immediately inside an interior room within the building in which you are located or nearest to your location at the time of the warning.
• Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls.
• Do not drive to shelter, unless you are already in a vehicle when the warning is issued, then drive to the nearest building or seek shelter in a ditch or ravine.
• Never try to outrun a tornado in your vehicle.
• If you are in a building, go to the designated shelter area. Interior halls on the lowest floors are usually best.
• Go to an interior room on the lowest level (e.g. bathroom, closet, hall, etc.).
• Get under a piece of sturdy furniture if possible. Stay away from all windows.
For information about UTMB Emergency Operations, UTMB Police Campus Crime Alert information site, City of Galveston evacuations, and more, visit UTMB Emergency Operations webpage at: https://www.utmb.edu/emergency_ plan or, UTMB Alerts Emergency Notification System site: http://www.utmb.edu/emergency_plan/utmbalerts/
Evacuation procedures flow chart diagram
Crime Prevention & Security Tips
General Crime Prevention Tips
• Avoid walking alone, particularly after dark.
• Contact UTMB Police for a security escort service (Safety Watch) whenever possible.
• If walking alone is unavoidable, be aware of your surroundings and let someone know when to expect you.
• Walk purposefully and make eye contact with strangers.
• Avoid shortcuts. The shortest route is not always the safest route.
• Walk along the mid-point between curbs and buildings and away from alleys and bushes.
• Dress for mobility, particularly after dark.
• Avoid deserted areas, poorly lit streets, alleys, and pathways.
• Never jog alone after dark.
• When walking or jogging, go against the flow of traffic; that makes it harder for motorists to bother you. (If harassed from a car, walk or run in the opposite direction.
• Scream if you are truly frightened.
• Do not jog while wearing stereo headphones. It’s important to be alert to what’s happening around you.
• Carry your personal belongings in a backpack or similar container that will enable your arms and hands to be free at all times.
• Avoid approaching your car with bundles that restrict use of your arms. If you’ve been shopping, ask the store for assistance.
• Always have your keys ready to unlock the door to your car or residence and enter without delay. Lock the doors after you get inside.
• Before entering your car, look in the back seat and on the floorboard.
• Always lock car doors and windows when you leave or enter your car.
• Never leave belongings in plain view in your car. Lock them in the trunk.
• If someone in a vehicle attempts to stop you - even to ask for directions - do not get close to the vehicle.
• Register, engrave, mark, and/or photograph all your valuables including bicycles, stereos, jewelry, vehicles, computers, etc.
• Never get on an elevator with someone who looks suspicious. If someone who looks suspicious gets on the elevator, get off immediately.
• Avoid using ATMs in dark, isolated areas; it’s best to use machines that are highly visible in public areas such as supermarkets.
• Never flash your cash. Always have “emergency” change for a phone call.
• Be responsible with alcohol. If you are intoxicated, you are less alert and an easier target for robbers and attackers.
Security tips for Student Housing Facilities
• Never leave your door open, even if you will be gone for only a few minutes.
• Never prop any door open.
• Always lock doors, screens, and windows to prevent uninvited access to your room.
• Don’t mark your room key or key chain with your name, address, or telephone number.
• Do not give anyone a key to your room.
• Do not leave valuables in plain sight.
• Never let strangers into your apartment. This puts you and others at risk.
Be aware of suspicious persons and activities. If you observe someone or something suspicious, notify a resident assistant and the UTMB Police Department: 2-1111 (on-campus Galveston locations) or 409-772-1111 (cell phones and/or off campus locations, including UTMB facilities not located on the Galveston campus), http://www.utmb.edu/police/.
Counseling
UTMB recognizes that at one time or another everyone feels upset or distressed. Stress and anxiety levels sometimes elevate to a point where we wish to gain support from counseling representatives.
UTMB has proactively addressed the need in our community for a centralized, coordinated and caring process designed to assist our students and staff who wish to gain support. The UTMB Student Helpline is available 24/7 at: 409-747-HELP (4357). Additionally, Student Health provides Psychological Counseling and Psychiatric Services to all students. Therapy Assisted Online (TAO) is available to students seeking online resources and self-help tools. The University of Texas Employee Assistance Program is available 24/7 at: 844-872-5986.
Other external resources are also available, such as: the Resource and Crisis Center of Galveston County: 888-919-7233 (toll free hotline) or 409-919-7233 (administrative offices); Bay Area Turning Point: 281-286-2525; and Houston Area Women’s Center: 713-528-2121 (Domestic Violence Hotline), 713-528-7273 (Rape Crisis Hotline), and 713-528-6798.
Helpful Telephone Numbers
Police/Fire/Ambulance Emergency 911
UTMB Title IX Office 409-772-2112
UTMB Student Life Department 409-772-1996 UTMB Student Helpline 409-747-HELP (4357) UT Employee Assistance Program 844-872-5986
Resource and Crisis Center of Galveston County 888-919-7233 (toll free hotline) or 409-919-7233 (administrative offices) Bay Area Turning Point: 281-286-2525
Houston Area Women’s Center: 713-528-2121 (Domestic Violence Hotline), 713-528-7273 (Rape Crisis Hotline), and 713-528-6798
