This document is designed to help you understand the responsibilities of being a student at Wesleyan University and the importance of adhering to the Code of Non-Academic Conduct. It is also important to know your rights that are safeguarded by Wesleyan and the procedures to pursue recourse of perceived injustice.

• Wesleyan’s Code of Non-Academic Conduct (Code) is in effect throughout your time at the University. Whether you are on campus, visiting another school, or at home, it is important to understand that the Code may still be applied to your actions.

• Wesleyan is part of Middletown, CT. As such, the streets and sidewalks that border and intersect campus are public and are subject to Middletown and Connecticut laws and enforcement mechanisms.

• Public Safety Officers (P-Safe) work to maintain the safety of the student body, the campus facilities, and the University. Students must comply with requests made by P-Safe acting in the course of that responsibility. Students have the right to file a formal complaint after the incident if there is a concern about the manner in which that responsibility was carried out.

• Students are responsible for carrying University identification and displaying it at the request of P-Safe.

• Students are responsible for the actions of their guests.

• The Student Judicial Board will adjudicate any alleged violation of the Code regardless of when it occurs. Seniors risk forfeiting their privilege of participating in senior week activities or commencement exercises should a violation occur at the end of the year.

• Room safety inspections are conducted to maintain adherence to fire safety regulations. During these inspections, violations of the Code that are in plain sight will be documented. Inspectors are not permitted to open closets or drawers.

• The University has a responsibility to maintain the safety and well being of all students, faculty, and staff. At times, exercising that responsibility may include entering a private residential space. There are specific procedures that must be in place before such an action would occur and stringent guidelines are followed upon entrance into a private residence.

“Successfully dealing with law enforcement when they’re enforcing the law.”

The Middletown Police Department (MPD) has jurisdiction to address suspected legal issues on the Wesleyan University campus. Our campus is a part of Middletown!

Examples of issues that MPD may be called on to address:

• Loud noise complaints from city residents where University residences impact private homes not affiliated with Wesleyan.
• Large gatherings of students that may impede the normal flow of traffic or that could lead to situations that are difficult to manage.
• Students walking with open containers on city streets or sidewalks. This includes sidewalks and streets that are primarily populated by Wesleyan owned residences.

“The Cardinal rules”

The easiest way to avoid problems here at Wesleyan and in Middletown is the same as it is in your hometown: STAY OUT OF TROUBLE. If you are in a situation where you are interacting with MPD or P-Safe, remember the Cardinal rules:

• Show respect: Being respectful to others often leads to reciprocation. If you feel that an officer has been disrespectful, politely ask to speak to their supervisor after the incident.

• Cooperate: Comply with all requests! You have a responsibility to display your Wesleyan identification when asked. If officers are concerned for their safety, they may ask to pat you down to make sure you are not in possession of any dangerous weapons.

• Be honest: Lying to an officer or being intentionally deceptive will ruin your credibility in the situation and likely result in a more confrontational interaction

What should you do if you think an officer has mistreated you?

You should not confront or threaten the officer or do anything to intensify the situation. After the incident ask to address your concerns with the officer’s supervisor, the citizen complaint office, a University official, a parent, or legal representation.

• Always note the name of officers with whom you have come in contact.

• Document and describe any instance of officer misconduct in a written statement. Be objective in your statement; have another person proofread the statement. Have the statement notarized within 72 hours of the incident.

• You may be tempted to get angry; however, your cooperation and patience will help move the situation along more smoothly and expeditiously.

• Remember the officer believes there is a reason to stop and question you and will actively maintain his/her own safety if you present a perceived threat.

• Do not resist arrest.

• Do not make threatening motions or statements to an officer.

• Do not interfere with the arrest of others.

Adapted from: The Law and You. Allstate Insurance Co. 2005

This document was developed through the collaboration of SAC members, Public Safety, Residential Life, and the office of the Dean of Student Services in the Spring of 2009.