Frequently Asked Questions
Who must report?
- Are all University personnel required to report all crimes to the Illinois State University Police Department?
In general, maintaining the safety and security of Illinois State University is the responsibility of all members of the University community.
- University policy 5.2.1 requires all personnel to notify the Illinois State University Police Department of crimes in progress (that is, crimes which are occurring at the same time you are notifying the police,) emergencies, and other crimes. Reporting Processes are available on the University Policy website.
- All University personnel are mandated reporters under the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act and are required to contact the Illinois Department of Children & Family Service Hotline (1-800-25ABUSE (800-252-2873)) AND contact the Illinois State University Police when they have reasonable suspicion of suspected child abuse or neglect of a minor.
- Responsible Employees must report specific crimes (a list is available at: X) by contacting the Illinois State University Police or by completing a Public Incident Report Form available at the Campus Safety & Security Website.
- Who are Required Reporting Parties?
Beyond the obligation for all University personnel to report suspected child abuse and neglect, a more defined group of Responsible Employees are required to report other reportable crimes/incidents. Responsible Employees (“REs”) are Universitypersonnel with significant responsibility for student and campus activities OR University personnel responsible for campus security. REs include but may not be limited to:
- Deans, Directors, Department Heads, Supervisors.
- Athletic staff including coaches, trainers, staff, and Study Center staff.
- Dean of Students Office Staff
- Campus Recreation Staff
- Faculty & Academic Advisers
- RSO Advisers
- University Housing Staff
- Human Resources Staff
- Student Health Services Staff
- Lab School Staff
- Illinois State University Police, Student Night Patrols, Additional Security Staff
- Facility security staff such as employees that monitor access into campus buildings or parking facilities (e.g. Night Operations, Parking Staff).
REs must report crimes/incidents by completing a Public Incident Report Form or by contacting Illinois State University Police at (309) 438-8631. If you are unsure whether or not you are a Responsible Employee, contact Illinois State University Police at (309) 438-8631.
When to report
- How promptly must a report be filed?
We rely on University personnel to use their good judgment in filing timely reports.
- In an emergency situation or if someone is at imminent risk of harm or injury, call 911.
- As a mandated reporter, you must contact DCFS immediately if you have reasonable suspicion a child is a victim of abuse or neglect.
- In non-emergency situations complete the Public Incident Reporting Form or contact University Police at (309) 438-8631 promptly.
How to report
- If I dial 911 in an emergency, am I still required to complete the Public Incident Reporting Form?
No.
- If I already filed a written report with a University office, am I still required to report?
Not if the written report was filed with one of the following University offices: Illinois State University Police, Office of Equal Opportunity Ethics and Access, Student Conduct & Community Responsibilities, Student Health, or Housing.
- If a victim or witness already filed a report with another University department (Office of Equal Opportunity Ethics and Access, Student Conduct & Community Responsibilities, Student Health, Housing, etc.), do I need to file a report?
Yes.
Off-Campus
- If I learn about a crime that took place off campus, do I need to report it to University Police?
If you learn of a crime that took place off-campus and it involves a student or University-sponsored activity, you should report it, particularly if the crime is sexual assault or relationship violence.
- What if the individuals involved in the incident are from Normal, Bloomington, or another campus?
If you learn of a crime that took place off-campus and it involves a student or University-sponsored activity, you should report it, particularly if the crime is sexual assault or relationship violence. The University may not be able to act directly when non-University individuals are involved, however the University can refer information to another university or local law authorities.
Resources
- Where can I find additional resources?
A list of additional resources for students, faculty and staff is available at the Campus Safety & Security website.
- Where can I find resources regarding reporting suspected child abuse or neglect?
DCFS maintains a website for mandated child abuse reporters at http://www.state.il.us/dcfs/child/index.php. The website contains resources for mandated reporters, and additional information about what constitutes suspected child abuse or neglect.
If you have additional questions, please call or e-mail University Police at (309) 438-8631 or isupolice@illinoisstate.edu. A University representative will respond to your question as soon as possible. Please do not use the e-mail address for emergencies, dial 911.
When in doubt, Report! Do not delay reporting if you are unsure.