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The Office of Student Life is a department within the Student Affairs Division
which reports to the Assistant Vice President for Campus Life.
Office of Student Life
330 Memorial Union, Kingston, RI 02881
Phone: 401-874-2101; Fax: 401-874-5574; TTD: 401-874-2098 |
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2. Respect for Health, Safety, and Rights of Self and Others. The University of Rhode Island expects its students to treat other persons with respect and human dignity. All members of the community share the responsibility for protecting and maintaining community health, safety, and the rights of other persons. Because of the University's concentrated housing, varied activities, and the individual needs of students and faculty to pursue their work free from hazards and intrusions on their privacy, the cooperation of all is needed in order to maintain these standards.
2.1 Harassment. Behavior (e. g., physical action, harassment, verbal abuse) which threatens to injure or endangers the health, safety, or welfare of oneself or another person is unacceptable. Harassment is conduct that has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual's performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment. See also 2.7, Hate Crimes and 2.8, Bias-Based Incidents.
2.2 Threats. Physical or verbal threats which endanger the health, safety or welfare of oneself or another person is unacceptable.
2.3 Physical Actions. Physical abuse or other inappropriate physical actions which injures, threatens or endangers the health, safety, or welfare or oneself or another person is unacceptable.
2.4 Information About Sexual Harassment and Assault. Sexual harassment is sex discrimination and is unlawful under State and Federal laws and University of Rhode Island policy. Sexual harassment includes verbal and physical behaviors that range from sexual gestures or teasing to sexual assault. Verbal sexual harassment may include, but is not limited to sexual remarks, comments, jokes and innuendoes, whistles and cat calls, crude and offensive language, comments on physical attributes, use of demeaning or inappropriate terms, discussion of sexual activities, the posing of personal questions, the spreading of stories about someone's social or sexual life, and propositions or pressure for social or sexual contact. Physical sexual harassment may include but is not limited to, unwanted touching, patting, grabbing, pinching, or hugging, stares, leers or sexual gestures, following someone or blocking their path, the display of sexually explicit or suggestive pictures, sexual assault and rape. Peer sexual harassment is a form of prohibited sex discrimination where the harassing conduct creates a hostile environment when it is unwelcome and when the conduct is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive to limit a student's ability to participate in or benefit from the education program, or to create a hostile or abusive educational environment.
a. Welcomeness. In order to be actionable as harassment, sexual conduct must be unwelcome. Conduct is unwelcome when the student being harassed did not solicit or incite it and regarded the conduct as undesirable or offensive. Mere acquiescence in the conduct or the failure to complain does not always mean that the conduct was welcome. The fact that a student may have accepted the conduct does not mean that he or she welcomed it. Also, the fact that a student willingly participated in conduct on one occasion does not prevent him or her from indicating that the same conduct has become unwelcome on a subsequent occasion.
b. Acquaintance Rape. Acquaintance rape is rape by a date, boyfriend, girlfriend, casual friend or acquaintance. Regardless of the relationship between a perpetrator and victim, acquaintance rape is as serious a crime as stranger rape and the same criminal laws and penalties apply to both. Date rape often occurs following some level of mutually acceptable intimate activity. At some point the victim has stopped consenting.
c. Consent. Consent is an informed agreement to participate, communicated implicitly (through physical participation) or explicitly (verbally) that is not achieved through manipulation, blackmail, or coercion of any kind. Informed consent is having the cognitive and emotional ability to appreciate the act to which one is consenting. Substance abuse, (including alcohol) permanent/ temporary emotional or physical disability, being below the age of consent are all factors detracting from or making impossible informed consent.
d. Rhode Island Sexual Assault Law. In Rhode Island, sexual assault is defined legally in three degrees:
1st degree -any forced or coerced penetration of the vagina, anus or mouth, by any part of another person's body or by an object.
2nd degree -any forced or coerced contact with a person's genital area, inner thighs, buttocks, or the breast of a female.
3rd degree -penetration when one person is age 18 or older and the other is over the age of 14 but under the age of consent (age 16). The state of Rhode Island does not recognize the ability of people under the age of 16 to give informed consent to sexual intercourse with an adult.
e. The Role of Alcohol. In many cases of campus acquaintance rape, alcohol is involved. Alcohol use may impair judgment or lessen the victim's ability to resist. In some cases the victim is incapacitated, or has passed out, and usually is isolated. It is important to note that alcohol is not the direct cause of sexual assault, but it is an exacerbating factor. Alcohol frequently contributes to the social conditions which lead to acquaintance rape. In the Ms. Survey (1988) Robin Warshaw reported that about 75 % of the men and at least 55% of women involved in acquaintance rapes had been drinking just before the attack.
f. Impact of Sexual Assault. Sexual assault victims experience profound emotional trauma. Although victims react in different ways, common responses include initial feelings of shock and disbelief; intense fears about personal safety; preoccupation with recurrent, intrusive thoughts about the assault; sleep disturbances; anxiety; impaired concentration; mood swings; depression; and feelings of anger, shame and self-blame. These reactions are called "post-traumatic stress disorders" or "rape trauma syndrome." Victims of acquaintance rape often experience especially intense feelings of shame and self-blame. Many also feel betrayed because they have been violated by someone they initially trusted. Some victims lose confidence in their own judgment and find it hard to learn to trust again.
g. What to Do If You are Sexually Assaulted. Get to a safe place. Go to your home (with locked doors and windows) or a friend's house or a place where there are several people. Seek medical attention as soon as possible. It is extremely important to be examined for physical injury as well as to discuss the options for prevention of disease and pregnancy. Even if the incident was not recent, you should still consider a medical discussion (and perhaps examination) about the possible physical consequences of the event. In the event that you may choose immediately or at a later time to pursue legal action, seek care within 72 hours of the incident. You will be given the choice of having additional physical and medical evidence for a "rape kit". Do not bathe or douche, since that may destroy evidence. You may change your clothes, but save what you were wearing. Place each item of clothing in a separate paper bag for evidence. Medical services are available at Health Services until 8: 00 p. m. After that time transportation is provided to South County Hospital. It is recommended that you call Health Services as the initial step in getting the proper medical attention. All medical information will remain confidential unless you choose to take formal action and give permission for the information to be released.
h. Options for Victims of Sexual Assault and Harassment. For emotional support the URI Counseling Center (874-2288) is available for full-time students and the Sexual Assault and Trauma Center of Rhode Island operates a 24 hour hot line statewide. Ongoing support is crucial to the emotional recovery of victims. Advocates are available 24 hours a day, statewide, to provide this essential service. Call the Victims of Crime Helpline, 1-800-494-8100. Many sexual assault cases go unreported because the victim fears retaliation or possible humiliation if word gets around that she/ he has been the victim of a sex offense. Victims tend to feel guilty, as though they did something to bring it on themselves, and often keep the incident to themselves or share some of the incident with a close friend. Students who have been raped or sexually assaulted in any way have been victimized. Their assailants are at fault and the behavior is not acceptable. In order to stop this type of criminal activity, we encourage victims to help start the healing process by reporting what has happened to them. Recognizing the different needs of victims, there are a range of ways to report the perpetrator's behavior. A student may pursue any or all of these options. The incident may be reported to the police 874-2121, whether or not criminal prosecution is desired. A police report does not require a victim to prosecute, that decision can be made later. If the incident occurs on campus, Campus Police have jurisdiction and can be of help in exploring this option. The victim may bring an advocate and a female victim will almost always be able to talk with a female Campus Police officer. If the offender is a University of Rhode Island student and the incident happened on campus, the University is obliged to take action. To initiate disciplinary action, the student contacts the Office of Student Life. Pleases consult the URI Student Handbook Section 10 through 19 or call the Office of Student Life, Judicial Affairs at 874-2098. In addition, a student may want to initiate criminal action by contacting the Campus Police at 874-2121.
2.5 Sexual Actions. Behavior that results in the sexual abuse, harassment, or intimidation of another person, or any unwanted sexual attention towards another person, is unacceptable. Forced or coerced contact with intimate body parts is prohibited. If the individual to whom it is directed does not give consent or is physically or mentally unable to give consent, sexual attention is considered unwanted.
2.6 Information About Harassment Based on Personal Attributes. Harassment on the basis of one's race, sex, religion, age, color, creed, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation is considered to be discrimination. Because some students may be reticent to initiate complaints based on this type of harassment, specialized advice is available. For example, women students may feel more comfortable speaking to another woman about a particularly sensitive grievance. Seeking information and advice from a staff member does not obligate the student to file a formal complaint. Lists of staff who can provide such advice are available in the following offices:
Affirmative ActionOfficer: Robert Gillis, Carlotti Administration Building, 874-2442, TT only: 874-2120
Title IX Coordinator: Christian Pope, Mackal, 874-2281 Counseling Center: Roosevelt Hall, 874-2288
Student Life, Memorial Union: 874-2101, TT via RI Relay 1-800-745-5555 University Ombud, Memorial Union: 874-2863
504/ ADA Coordinator: Pamela Rohland, 330 Memorial Union, 874-2098
2.7 Harassment and Hate Crimes. Behavior that results in the abuse, harassment, or intimidation of another person based on religion, ethnicity, race, nationality, sex or sexual orientation, or disability is prohibited. "A hate crime is any crime motivated by bigotry and bias, including, but not limited to threatened, attempted, or completed acts that appear after investigation to have been motivated by racial, religious, ethnic, sexual orientation, gender or disability prejudice. " (Section 42-28-46 of the General RI Laws)
2.8 Bias-Based Incidents. A bias-based incident is one which has a negative effect on an individual or group and which is based on or motivated by bias against race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, disability or age. The incident is experienced as hurtful by one or many and may involve harassment, the creation of a hostile environment, property damage, verbal threats of violence, or physical violence. The incident may or may not involve breaches of University Policies or state or federal law. When you report a bias-based incident, you can expect:
• respectful listening
• confidentiality (rare exceptions to confidentiality will be explained to you)
• a timely response° reasonable protection against retaliation
• established procedures will be followed
• there will be a defined conclusion to the process
In response to such incidents, the University may plan campus programs or enhance educational efforts to help prevent future incidents. If the perpetrator of the incident can be identified and if established policies or laws are violated, disciplinary or criminal action will be taken. Student complaints regarding students are generally directed to the Office of Student Life. Student or faculty complaints regarding faculty or classroom concerns are generally directed to the chair of the department or to the dean of the college in which the class is taught. In any case, complaints may be directed to the Office of Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity and Diversity.
If you experience a bias-based incident, select the office you feel most appropriate and comfortable.
When in doubt, call the Affirmative Action Office (874-2442 e-mail address, <gillisr@uri.edu>) and ask for help understanding your options. |
If you want support or counseling or simply to tell your story either confidentially or for the record |
Campus resoruces for students:
| Office of Student Life, Dean of Students | 874-2101 |
| Housing and Residential Life, Residential Education | 874-5162 |
| Women's Center | 874-2097 |
| Talent Development | 874-2901 |
| Multicultural Center, Assistant Director | 874-2851 |
| Health Services | 874-2246 |
| Counseling Center | 874-2288 |
| Campus Police | 874-2121 |
| Affirmitive Action Office | 874-2442 |
| Coordinator of Violence Prevention | 874-9131 |
| Disability Services for Students | 874-2098 |
| Ombudsperson | 874-2863 |
| University Chaplains | Catholic 874-2324; Jewish 874-2740; Protestant 874-4784 |
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Campus resoruces for staff and faculty:
| Human Resources Office | 874-2416 |
| Academic Departmnet Chairs, Deans, Provost Women's Center | 874-2097 |
| Talent Development | 874-2901 |
| Multicultural Center, Assistant Director | 874-2851 |
| Campus Police | 874-2121 |
| Your bargaining unit: | PTSS 874-2501; PSA 874-2295; ACT/NEA 874-2264; AAUP 874-2532; Council 94 874-2100 |
| Psychology Consultation Center | 874-4263 |
| Affirmitive Action Office | 874-2442 |
| Coordinator of Violence Prevention | 874-9131 |
| Disability Services for Students | 874-2098 |
| Ombudsperson | 874-2863 |
| University Chaplains | Catholic 874-2324; Jewish 874-2740; Protestant 874-4784 |
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Off-campus resources for students, staff, or faculty
| Women's Resource Center of South County | 782-3990 |
| US Office of Civil Rights | 1-617-223-9662 |
| Urban League | 351-5000 |
| Sexual Assault and Trauma Resource Center | 421-4100 |
| Victims of Crime Help Line | 1-800-494-8100 |
| If you want educational, disciplinary or criminal action |
| Please note this general guideline: If the perpetrator is a student, go to the Office of Student Life; if the perpetrator is a faculty, go to the Department Chair, Dean or Provost. If the perpetrator is a non-faculty staff member, go to the Department Director or to the Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Office. |
Off-campus resources for students, staff, or faculty:
| Office of Student Life, Judicial Affairs | 874-2098 |
| Housing and Residential Life, Residential Education | 874-5162 |
| Campus Police | 874-2121 |
| Affirmative Action Office | 874-2442 |
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Campus resource for staff and faculty:
| Human Resources Office | 874-2416 |
| Provost's Office (for faculty) | 874-4402 |
| Campus Police | 874-2121 |
| Your bargaining unit: | PTSS 874-2501; PSA 874-2295; ACT/NEA 874-2264; AAUP 874-2532; Council 94 874-2100 |
| Psychology Consultation Center | 874-4263 |
| Affirmitive Action Office | 874-2442 |
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| When in doubt, call the Affirmative Action Office (874-2442 <gillisr@uri.edu>) and ask for someone who can help you understand your options. |
2.9 Discrimination and Equal Opportunity. The University of Rhode Island prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, age, color, creed, national origin, disability or sexual orientation, and discrimination against disabled and Vietnam era veterans in the recruitment, admission, access to, or treatment of students, the recruitment, hiring, or treatment of faculty and staff, and the operation of its activities and programs, as specified by state and federal laws, including Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended, Title IX of 1972 Educational Amendments to the Higher Education Act, Executive Order 11246, as amended, Sections 503/ 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Section 402 of the Vietnam Era Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974 and the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Affirmative Action Office (874-2442, TT only: 874-2120) handles all complaints on discrimination and sexual harassment. Any member of the University community (e. g., faculty, staff, or student) may file a discrimination complaint or a sexual harassment complaint with the Affirmative Action Office. The University of Rhode Island Sexual Harassment Policy and the Discrimination Complaint Process for the University of Rhode Island are both available at the Affirmative Action Office. Seeking information and advice from the Affirmative Action Office does not obligate the campus community member to file a formal complaint.
2.10 Discrimination based on Disability. The person designated to coordinate the University's efforts to comply with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act as they pertain to students and staff is Affirmative Action Officer Robert Gillis. The office telephone number is 874-2442 Voice/ TT.
2.11 Discrimination Complaint Process. The University is obligated to take action when incidents of discrimination are reported. If you believe you have been discriminated against as an employee or student on the grounds of race, sex, religion, age, color, creed, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation, you may lodge a complaint by following the steps specified below. The Affirmative Action Office and the Office of Student Life will make a preliminary investigation and attempt to resolve the complaint through informal means. The Affirmative Action Officer, and the Office of Student Life may also refer the complainant to the appropriate body for further action.
a. As an employee, you may discuss the complaint with your immediate supervisor and/ or consult with the Affirmative Action Officer, Robert Gillis or his designee.
b. As a student employee with a complaint about a supervisor, discuss the complaint with the supervisor of the alleged offender in the department or office where the alleged discrimination occurred and/ or with the Affirmative Action Officer, Robert Gillis or his designee.
c. As a student with a complaint against another student, discuss the complaint with the Office of Student Life and/ or with the Affirmative Action Officer, Robert Gillis or his designee.
d. Prospective employees and students who believe they have been discriminated against may register their complaints directly with the Affirmative Action Officer, Robert Gillis who will make a thorough review of the facts in the case and report these along with recommendations, to the appropriate office or supervisor. Where necessary, the Affirmative Action Officer will bring his report to the attention of the President.
2.12 AIDS. URI students, faculty, and staff are expected to provide the compassion, understanding, and support necessary to help individuals with AIDS and HIV infection. As part of this responsibility, the University will vigorously enforce individual rights of confidentiality and freedom from discrimination as outlined in three existing policies: "Reasonable Accommodation for Handicapped Employees," "Life Threatening Illness," and "Handicapped Policies." Copies of these policies may be obtained at the Office of Human Resources Administration, the front desk at Health Services, and Disabled Student Services at the Office of Student Life.
2.13 Hazing. Hazing is prohibited. Hazing is any action taken or situation created (the willingness of an individual to participate notwithstanding) upon which initiation, admission into, or affiliation with an organization is directly or indirectly conditioned and which produces mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule. Such activities and situations include, but are not limited to, paddling in any form; infliction of excessive fatigue; exposure to the elements; forced consumption of any substance; physical and psychological shocks, quests, treasure hunts, scavenger hunts, road trips, or any other such activities; wearing, publicly, apparel which is conspicuous and not normally in good taste; engaging in public stunts and buffoonery, morally degrading or humiliating games and activities; late work sessions which interfere with scholastic activities.
2.14 Animals. The physical abuse of animals (pets, laboratory subjects, wild animals such as ducks, squirrels, etc.) is prohibited.
2.15 Smoking. Smoking is prohibited in all University buildings and in all University owned or operated residences. For smoking cessation information, call Health Education at 874-5954 or see www. uri. edu/ smokefree
2.16 Weapons. On-campus possession of firearms (including blank pistols and replicas), explosives, knives, fireworks, numchucks, and other articles or substances usable as weapons is prohibited. The only possible exceptions are weapons used in authorized ROTC activities, weapons used for appropriate police science courses, and hunting weapons or weapons used in competitive sports which must be left with campus police while on campus.
2.17 Safety Equipment. Use safety equipment and initiate safety procedures only when it is necessary. This includes, but is not limited to, fire equipment, fire alarms, exit lights, fire drills, initiating a false alarm, tampering with safety equipment, or submitting a bomb threat. The cost of the Kingston Fire Department and University personnel to answer a false alarm is approximately $500.
2.18 Drugs. The on-campus use, possession, sale or distribution of narcotics, steroids, stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens, marijuana and its derivative, or any other controlled substance without a prescription, including syringes and needles and inhalants is prohibited. Being in an on-campus room where illegal drugs are being used may result in judicial charges. Drug paraphernalia such as, but not limited to bongs, is prohibited on campus and may be subject to investigations for drug presence. Students may be subject to random drug testing as part of a sanction for a drug-related offense. The U. S. Department of Education has recently required students receiving federal financial aid to sign a no-drug use oath. Students should be aware of Department of Education regulations stipulating that those "who engage in the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, or use of any controlled substance" may lose their federal financial aid, and/ or be prosecuted for fraud.
2.19 The University of Rhode Island Drug and Alcohol Free Campus Statement. The University of Rhode Island supports students in demonstrating responsible conduct in the best interest of their personal health and well being, the community's general welfare, and the rights of others. Students are expected to assume responsibility for their behavior and must understand that being under the influence of drugs/ alcohol in no way lessens their accountability. Although alcohol is a drug socially accepted by many, it can be used abusively. Misuse of alcohol may damage physical, mental, and emotional health. It may produce mild symptoms such as stomach upset, frequent colds, or mild depression, ulcers, malnutrition. Emotional and behavioral problems such as depression, poor social interactions and low achievement levels are all compounded by alcohol or other drug use. Information about alcohol and its effects is available through the Office of Student Life Substance Abuse Services. Students whose consumption is abusive to themselves or to others should seek supportive services through the University's Counseling Center or the Office of Student Life. Members of the University community will be held accountable for inappropriate behavior while under the influence of alcohol. Neither the Office of Student Life's Substance Abuse Education Program, Health Services nor the Counseling Center issue alcohol citations when students seek assistance. All substance abuse treatment services are confidential.
The policies listed below are to be followed for the consumption and use of alcohol and other drugs at the University of Rhode Island. The described consequences of substance abuse are not totally inclusive and do not cover all possible legal implications of the possession, consumption, manufacture or sale of alcohol and other drugs. Students will obey all state laws pertaining to the possession, consumption, manufacture, and sale of alcoholic beverages as defined in Title 3 of the General Laws of Rhode Island and in Town Ordinances. These statutes are available in the Reference Section of the University Library.
2.20 Illegal consumption, possession, proximity. Possession and/ or consumption of alcoholic beverages is limited to individuals who are 21 years of age or older. Students under 21 cannot transport alcohol in their cars nor have it in their possession while on campus, nor can they be in an on-campus room where alcohol is being consumed. Students under the age of 21 are discouraged from having empty alcohol containers on display. Underage students may be charged for having in their possession empty alcohol containers.
2.21 Grain Alcohol. Grain alcohol is prohibited on campus except for laboratory use.
2.22 Serving or Providing Alcohol. Serving alcoholic beverages to an individual under 21 years of age, purchasing alcoholic beverages for an individual less than 21 years of age, or negligently allowing a minor to consume alcoholic beverages is prohibited. Serving alcoholic beverages to someone who is visibly intoxicated is prohibited.
2.23 Public Consumption. Public consumption of alcoholic beverages on University grounds is prohibited (except as allowed by a properly registered and monitored event). The consumption of alcohol or possession of an open container of alcohol is prohibited in public areas. A public area is any area outside of a student's room, such as, but not limited to corridors, stairways, bathrooms, lounges and balconies, or any other public areas in or around the residence halls, fraternity/ sorority houses, and on-campus apartments. Students 21 and older who publicly consume alcohol or have an open container in public are in violation of this policy and are also subject to the mandatory minimum sanctions.
2.24 Locations for Consumption. The University Club is the only designated area for the consumption of alcoholic beverages. Possession and consumption in all other non-residential University buildings is prohibited.
2.25 Alcohol Purchase. No alcohol may be purchased with student organization funds, including fraternity and sorority dues and other sources of chapter income. At off-campus events funded by Student Senate allocated funds, alcohol cannot be served in the same location contracted for (e. g., alcohol cannot be served in the ballroom of a hotel if the ballroom is the contracted location, but can be served at a licensed bar in the same hotel.)
2.26 Tap Systems. No permanent tap systems, whose use is to distribute alcoholic beverages, may be owned or operated by a student organization, including fraternities and sororities. Drinking games are prohibited.
2.27 Common Source Containers. Common source alcohol containers (e. g., beer kegs, punch bowls) are prohibited. Paraphernalia for drinking games or quantity consumption (funnels, beer bongs, etc.) are prohibited.
2.28 Off-campus Functions. If a student organization plans an off-campus function at an establishment where alcohol is served, and if the student organization accepts any remuneration from the establishment, there must be a contract establishing that the license holder is responsible and liable for all carding, security, and handling of alcohol. The Director of the Memorial Union and Student Involvement can assist with this contract.
2.29 Minimum Mandatory Sanctions for Alcohol and Other Drug Violations: Groups. The sanctions set forth in this policy are minimum sanctions and do not limit or restrict the imposition of additional or other sanctions allowable by law. Any URI student organization or recognized student group that sponsors, permits, allows a social event with alcohol and/ or fails to prevent the consumption of alcohol will be sanctioned as follows.
a. A minimum mandatory sanction of a $500 fine will be applied to a student group which sponsors, permits, or allows a social event with alcohol when all present are 21 and older. A minimum fine of $500 will be applied against a group that fails to prevent the consumption of alcohol by a person under the age of 21. Probation and work service may also be applied.
b. If it is the second offense within a period of three semesters, the mandatory sanction will be suspension of the organization from the U. R. I. campus for a minimum of two semesters. The organization will be fined a minimum of $500.
2.30 Minimum Mandatory Sanctions for Alcohol and Other Drug Violations: Individual Students. The sanctions set forth in this policy are minimum sanctions and do not limit or restrict the imposition of additional or other sanctions allowable by law. Individuals may be sanctioned personally as well as members of a group. Parents/ guardians of students under 21 years of age may be notified concerning violations of policies concerning alcohol and other drugs.
a. Any student under the age of 21 who consumes and/ or possesses alcohol in violation of Rhode Island law will be sanctioned as follows. The same minimum mandatory sanctions for alcohol violations apply to marijuana violations. Drug violations may also carry additional serious consequences (e. g., criminal charges, suspension or dismissal for selling or intent to sell, and so forth).
• If it is the first offense, the mandatory minimum sanction will be completion of a self-assessment survey, and/ or education session, a minimum fine of $50 and disciplinary probation for one semester.
• If it is the second offense, within 3 semesters of the first offense, the disciplinary probation will be extended for one semester, with mandatory education and evaluation and a minimum fine of $100.
• If it is the third offense within three semesters of the first offense, the mandatory minimum sanction will be suspension from the University for two semesters with readmission possible on presentation of proof of treatment.
b. Any U. R. I. student who provides any person under 21 years of age with alcohol or drugs or aids or abets any such person in violation of Rhode Island law will be sanctioned as follows:
• If it is the first offense, the mandatory minimum sanction will be disciplinary probation for one semester and a fine of $100. The student will also be required to perform a minimum of 20 hours of work service.
• If it is not the first offense, the minimum sanction will be suspension from the University for two semesters and a fine of $200.
2.31 Legal Sanctions for Alcohol and other Drugs. Rhode Island penalties for driving while impaired are as follows.
a) Section 3-8-6( d) of the Rhode Island statute states that it is unlawful for a minor (under the age of 21) to purchase, or attempt to purchase, or to make a false statement in connection with the attempted purchase of alcohol. The sanction is a fine of $100-$ 500.
b) Section 3-8-10 states that possession of alcohol by a minor is illegal. The fine ranges from $100-$ 500.
c) In Rhode Island drivers are "under the influence" and guilty of a violation, misdemeanor, or felony, depending on the circumstances, if they are between the ages of 18 and 21 with .02% blood alcohol or over 21 years of age with a blood alcohol concentration of .08%. Some of the Rhode Island penalties for driving while under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating drugs are as follows.
• BAC of .08 to .10, first offense: $100-$ 250 and 10 to 60 days of community service, license suspension of 45 days. Second offense: mandatory $400, license suspended for 2 years, imprisonment of 10 days to 1 year.
• BAC of .10 to .15, first offense: $100-$ 300 and 10 to 60 days of community service, and/ or imprisonment up to 1 year, license suspension for 3 to 6 months. Subsequent offenses have increased mandatory fines and imprisonment.
•BAC of .15 or more, first offense: $500 and 20 to 60 hours of community service, and/ or imprisonment up to 1 year, license suspended for 3 to 6 months. Subsequent offenses have increased mandatory fines and imprisonment.
2.32 Legal Sanctions for Illegal Drugs. Rhode Island statutes cover a wide range of drug offenses, including the use, possession, sale, distribution, transportation and manufacture of various types of drugs (21-28-4 Rhode Island General Legislation). Among other provisions the State law creates the following mandatory minimum prison sentences for first-time offenders who are not "drug dependent" persons. Actual sentences depend on the severity and the circumstances of the offense, and the character and background of the offender.
a. Imprisonment of not less than ten years for possession of enumerated quantities of controlled substances: heroin, coca leaves, cocaine, ecgonine, phencyclidine (PCP), Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), and marijuana plus fine.
b. Possession of larger enumerated quantities results in a minimum prison sentence of not less than twenty years plus fine.
c. Distribution of a controlled substance to persons under age 18 is penalized by imprisonment for not less than 15 years.
d. Education and counseling may be required.
2.33 Health Risks Associated with Use of Alcohol and Other Drugs. Many people are unaware of the potential physical and psychological consequences of their drug use. Not everyone who uses drugs becomes addicted. The vast majority of Americans who drink alcohol, for example, do so without any serious problems. However, it is important to remember that alcohol is a powerful drug Š and like marijuana, cocaine, or heroin, it can pose certain risks to your health and well being. Alcohol abuse is responsible for an average 200 ,000 deaths annually in the United States. Half of all accidental deaths, suicides, and homicides in the United States are estimated to be alcohol-related. In addition, alcohol use is implicated in many cases of sexual assault (see Section 2.4e).
a. Personal Risk Factors. Frequently, people who drink abusively don't consider themselves to be problem drinkers. Certain factors pose an increased risk for developing a serious alcohol problem. These are: 1) having one or more blood relatives with a history of alcohol or other drug problems; 2) growing up in a family in which alcohol was associated with family dysfunction; 3) drinking to get drunk; 4) being able to "hold your liquor" Š seeming to be less affected by alcohol than most people; 5) excessive drinking at a young age and/ or having a history of other drug abuse; 6) having one or more memory "blackouts" due to drinking; 7) drinking to relieve bad feelings or to escape from problems; 8) having friends who are heavy drinkers; 9) a history of impulsivity and/ or behavioral problems, such as conduct disorder; 10) using other drugs which, when combined with alcohol, increase the effects and dangers of drinking.
Sources: Miller, William R., Alcohol and You. Prepared for Project MATCH by the Center on Alcoholism, Substance Abuse, and Addictions (CASAA). The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131. Also Marlatt, G. A., Baer, J. S. & Larimer, M. E. (1995). Preventing alcohol abuse in college students: A harm reduction approach. In G. M. Boyd, J. Howard, & R. A. Zucker (Eds.), Alcohol problems among adolescents: Current directions in prevention research (pp. 147-172). Northvale, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum & Associates, Inc.
b. Birth Defects. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is among the three leading causes of birth defects. FAS refers to a pattern of physical and mental defects that may occur in infants whose mothers drink during pregnancy. Currently, 1 to 3 per 100,000 live births suffer from FAS. Experts estimate that by the year 2000 there will be more than 4 million cocaine-addicted babies born in this country. The cost of this epidemic is approximately 100 billion dollars. In the past few years, New York City has seen a 200% increase in the incidents of drug addicted babies.
c. Acute Alcohol Poisoning. Certain high-risk practices Š drinking games, drinking grain alcohol punch for example, involve the quick ingestion of large amounts of alcohol that can shut down breathing and heart functioning. This can be fatal. Chronic alcohol abuse has also been linked to liver disease, gastrointestinal disorders, birth defects, depression, impotence, and malnutrition. Alcohol and other drug use can impair judgment, reasoning, communication, and perception. In addition, it may lead to risky sexual encounters such as unprotected sex and sexual assault. Alcohol may be a contributing factor in cases of acquaintance rape. Alcohol does not cause a person to commit sexual assault. Furthermore, drunkenness does not absolve a guilty party from the act of rape. Drunk or sober, sexual assault is a crime.
d. Signs & Symptoms of Alcohol Poisoning. The person is unconscious or semi-conscious and cannot be roused. The person has cold, clammy, pale or bluish skin. The person's breathing is slow or irregular. The person vomits while passed out and is not waking up after vomiting. If someone you know has any of these symptoms after drinking alcohol, it is possible that he/ she is suffering from acute alcohol poisoning. Do not leave the person alone. Don't let them "sleep it off." Turn the person on their side to prevent choking should vomiting occur. Call for immediate medical attention (874-2121). If in a residence hall, get a Resident Assistant or Hall Director.
2.34 University of Rhode Island Resources for Substance Abuse Prevention. If you've ever wondered whether your use of alcohol or other drugs is causing problems for you, it might be helpful to speak with someone who can give you specific information about your particular patterns of use and the associated risks. Confidential assistance is available at the following locations on campus:
a. Substance Abuse Services. Office of Student Life, 330 Memorial Union, 874-2101 This comprehensive outreach program sponsors a range of activities aimed at reducing the risks and consequences associated with alcohol and other drug abuse. Consultation, peer education, in-service training, early intervention programs, and referral information are among the services offered to the university community. Under the sponsorship of various academic departments, students frequently complete internships in Substance Abuse Services, incorporating their interests in college student development, psychology, marketing, nursing, journalism, fine arts, public relations, multimedia technology, pharmacy, and research. The JADE program (Judicial Alcohol and Drug Education) balances enforcement with education when students are referred through the judicial system for violations of campus drug policies.
b. Peer Education. Office of Student Life at 874-2101 or Health Services at 874-5954. Peer education is considered to be one of the most promising prevention strategies in encouraging healthier lifestyle practices among college students, targeting areas such as drug and alcohol use, sexuality, relationships, eating behaviors, and academics. At URI peer education programs offer training and experience to students who are interested in working in several areas including sexual assault, substance abuse, stress management, and eating problems. A three-credit course is offered to students who want to acquire the knowledge and skills needed to work as peer educators.
c. Counseling Center. 217 Roosevelt Hall, 874-2288 Confidential counseling and mental health services are offered through individual and group sessions. Specialized treatment and education is provided by a substance abuse specialist.
d. Psychological Consultation Center. 150 Chafee Hall, 874-4263 Assessments, individual, couple, and family counseling. Sliding fee available based on need.
e. Health Services. Potter Building , 6 Butterfield Rd., 874-2246 On-going programs for students include physician/ nurse practitioner services; nursing services; specialists physicians clinics (dermatology, gynecology, internal medicine, orthopedic, psychiatry, surgical); health screening; women's clinic; counseling services; and health education.
2.35 Off-Campus Resources for Substance Abuse Prevention Rhode Island Council on Alcoholism and Other Drug Dependence:
24 Hour Hotline 1-800-622-7422.
Alcoholics Anonymous 1-800-439-8860
Narcotics Anonymous 401-461-1110
Al-anon & Alateen 401-781-0044
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