George Mason University Policies
George Mason University Stalking Policy
Effective 1999, Revised 2004
Stalking is a crime under Virginia state law (18.2-60.3). Incidents of stalking outside the Commonwealth of Virginia may be admissible in court if they are relevant to the case and may be punishable as a misdemeanor or a felony. Stalking behavior is prohibited and will not be toleratedby George Mason University.
George Mason University defines stalking as a series of behaviors that in context intend to place, or have knowledge that the behaviors might place, another person in reasonable fear of her/his safety or mental or physical well-being. Such behaviors* may include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Non-consensual (unwanted) communication or contact, including face-to-face, telephone calls, voice messages, electronic mail, instant messaging, written letters, unwanted gifts, etc.
- Harassment, either by the individual or through a third party
- Use of threatening gestures
- Pursuing or following
- Surveillance or other types of observation
- Use of electronic devices or software to track or obtain private information
- Trespassing
- Vandalism
- Non-consensual (unwanted) touching
*Some behaviors may result in separate criminal charges.
While certain acts can be classified as crimes, others which do not rise to criminal behavior may still be subject to the campus judicial process. The university can take action and has the right to give sanctions to an offender. Incidents occurring on or off campus are subject to University discipline when such actions materially affect the learning environment or operations of the University.
Legal options available to victims of stalking include reporting to the campus or local police, seeking a remedythrough civil proceedings, and/or utilizing the campus judicial process. Additional support is available at George Mason University Sexual Assault Services.
This policy applies equally to all members of the George Mason University community: students, faculty, administrators, staff, contract employees and visitors.
The University is committed to protecting the right of all individuals to pursue their intellectual, vocational, and personal interests without harassment or interference. The University is also committed to providing an environment in which visitors to and members of the campus community are treated with dignity, respect and regard for their welfare and learning needs.
This stalking policy was developed by the George Mason University Sexual Assault Services Campus-Community Coordinating Council. For more information on stalking issues or this policy, please contact Sexual Assault Services at (703) 993-4364.
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