Resolution & Reporting Options

Here are three main resolution & reporting options available:

  • Criminal Process
    • You can contact Colchester Police at 802-264-5556 to file an official complaint with local law enforcement and pursue criminal charges.
    • The criminal process is separate from the resolution & reporting options available through the College. You may choose to pursue criminal charges in addition to (or instead of filing an official complaint with the College).
    • The Title IX Coordinator can assist you in contacting Colchester Police, or you may choose to do so without assistance from the College.
    • The process for pursuing criminal charges through local law enforcement generally involve:
      • Meeting with law enforcement officers for an interview
      • The collection of evidence
      • Follow-up communication with law enforcement as their investigation proceeds
  • College Resolution Processes
    • Formal Complaint
      • Any individual can file a formal complaint by submitting in writing a document that describes the alleged misconduct and requests the College investigate the matter. Individuals must sign the formal complaint (either personally or electronically) and send it directly to the Title IX Coordinator.
      • The formal complaint process involves:
        • A full investigation conducted by an Investigator or Investigators
        • An opportunity to review all evidence collected in the investigation, as well as review and comment on the investigative report;
        • A live hearing run by a trained hearing chair to determine responsibility.
      • The Title IX Coordinator serves as the neutral liaison that maintains contact with all parties throughout the entire investigation and resolution process.
      • Possible outcomes include status sanctions (i.e., warning, probation, suspension, or dismissal), educational sanctions, and other remedies as appropriate.
  • Informal Resolution
    • Our informal resolution process, grounded in restorative practices, is available whether or not a formal complaint is filed with the College.
    • This voluntary process allows the Respondent to accept responsibility for their behavior and work to repair the harm they caused.
    • Engaging in this process does not appear on a student’s disciplinary record.
    • Both students must agree to engage in this process and can stop their participation at any time.
    • The College will not offer to facilitate an informal resolution process in any matters that involves allegations that an employee sexually harassed a student.