(828) 448-3500 webmaster@wpcc.edu

Clery Campus Security & Crime Statistics Report

The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy & Crime Statistics Act

October, 2022

An Annual Report for Students, Employees, and Applicants for Admission or Employment

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About Western Piedmont Community College

Who we are

Western Piedmont Community College (WPCC) was chartered on April 2, 1964, as amember of the North Carolina Community College System. In 2008, it was one of sevencolleges in the state to receive recognition for Exceptional Institutional Performance based on standards established by the North Carolina General Assembly. Located in the rolling foothills of Morganton, North Carolina, Western Piedmont issurrounded by scenic views of Table Rock, the South Mountains, and Linville Gorge. Approximately 4,000 students enroll each year to pursue college transfer degrees, two year associate degrees, and diplomas. More than 10,000 students enroll in continuing education courses for professional development and personal enrichment. The College also provides programs for high school completion.

Mission Statement

The College’s mission is to provide accessible, high-quality education that improveslives and promotes growth in our community.

Our Commitment to Students

At Western Piedmont Community College our focus is on you, the student. We are here to help you meet your personal, professional and educational goals, while at the same time meeting the needs of an ever changing, increasingly diverse community and workforce. Western Piedmont is an open-door institution, and we encourage you to contribute to the College by participating in and leading campus clubs and campus activities and by serving, when possible, on college-wide committees. Our mission is to provide accessible, high-quality education that improves lives and promotes growth in our community. Our vision is to achieve excellence in teaching and in the programs and services we offer you. With your active participation in the learning process, we commit to the following:

  • To provide the best learning environment that our resources can support,
  • To design and provide the finest programs of study possible,
  • To provide support services which enhance your chances for success,
  • To provide opportunities to engage in civic activities which benefit the community through service learning,
  • To provide classroom and extra-curricular activities that promote critical thinking, self-esteem, cooperation, and diversity, and
  • To develop a competent citizenry by encouraging the democratic principles of academic freedom, fair play, teamwork, and individual responsibilities.

– Adopted January 21, 2010, WPCC Faculty/Staff Council

Keeping the College Safe and Secure

Western Piedmont Community College is concerned about the safety, welfare, and protection of all students, faculty, staff, visitors, and college property. The college is committed to providing a safe and secure environment to everyone. The information contained in this document is prepared to increase awareness of the current programs that exist to assist in protecting the safety and well-being of all individuals. A college community, like any other community, experiences accidents, crimes, and injuries. No wall exists to protect the college from dangers that exist in the surrounding community. Unfortunately, absolute safety cannot be guaranteed to anyone. Therefore, students, staff, and visitors are also responsible for taking measures to protect themselves and their possessions. WPCC has been fortunate in experiencing few crimes, but such incidents could occur. All crime is serious. This document is provided as a part of WPCC’s commitment to safety and security and is in compliance with federal law, specifically The Clery Act.

The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act

In November 1990, the Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act (Title II, Public Law 101-542) was signed into law. This law requires colleges and universities to produce and make available certain policy statements and statistics about campus crime. In November 1999, this Act was renamed The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Crime Statistics Act or simply, The Clery Act. It is the policy of Western Piedmont Community College to publish by October 1 of each academic year an annual security report that informs current students and employees of its safety and security policies, procedures, and practices. This annual report will also disclose statistics from the previous three years concerning reported crimes that occurred on campus, in certain off-campus buildings or property either owned or controlled by the college and owned or controlled by student organizations recognized by the college, and on public property within or immediately adjacent to and accessible from the campus. The WPCC Campus Security Department is responsible for preparing and distributing this report with assistance from other Western Piedmont departments, such as student support services staff, as well as local law enforcement agencies, to compile the information. It is available on the web at wpcc.edu. Members of the WPCC community are encouraged to use this report as a guide for safe practices on and off campus. Each member of the college community receives notification that describes the report and provides its web address. Anyone wishing to obtain a paper copy of the report can contact Western Piedmont Community College, Campus Security, 1001 Burkemont Avenue Morganton, NC 28655. The Clery Act report is found in its entirety at www.ope.ed.gov/security/search.asp.

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About WPCC Campus Security

Contact and Location Information

The Campus Security office operates during the College’s normal business hours and other hours as needed. The Campus Security office is located on the Main Campus in Jim Burnett Hall, Room 151. If you have any questions, comments, suggestions, or concerns regarding this document or Campus Security you may contact Zebedee Graham, Chief of Security and Safety at zgraham@wpcc.edu. Campus Security personnel are available to assist you and to provide a safe and secure environment during your time on WPCC campuses.

Enforcement Authority

Campus Security is a department of the College charged with the responsibility of providing faculty, staff, students, and visitors with the safest educational environment possible and reports to the Vice President for Administrative Services / Chief Financial Officer. They are responsible for a full range of public safety services including, but not limited to, investigation of all reported crimes committed on campus, responding to medical and fire emergencies, parking regulations, crime reports, initial and follow-up investigations, medical and fire emergencies, parking regulations, enforcement of college policies, reporting violations of local, State, and Federal ordinances. Campus Security is comprised of both sworn and non-sworn officers; however, all officers have law enforcement backgrounds. They are uniformed officers employed, trained and charged with the task of carrying out the duties and responsibilities of campus security. These officers should be notified in the event of any and all emergencies. They should be kept informed of all campus activities and events in order to provide appropriate assistance. WPCC Campus Security officers respond to college emergency calls and requests for assistance. A daily crime log is kept in the Campus Security office on the Main Campus for review by the general public upon request. Campus Security also provides additional services to the college community including, but not limited to, the following: personal assistance, assistance with vehicle jump starts, unlocking vehicle doors, and escorts upon request for individuals going between locations or to their vehicles. The Campus Security officers recognizes it is vital to maintain a close working relationship with all local police, state agencies, and other emergency response agencies, specifically those with joint or mutual jurisdiction considerations and responsibilities.

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Incident Reporting

Incident Reporting and Response

Western Piedmont Community College encourages faculty, staff, students, visitors, and community members to report all crimes and public safety-related incidents to the Campus Security office in a timely manner.

If you believe that someone may be in imminent danger or if an incident has resulted in anyone being physically harmed, you should immediately call 911. Then, you should contact WPCC Security.

  • In Person on the WPCC Main Campus:
    • The Information Desk in Moore Hall (2nd level) – Telephone: (828) 448-3500
    • Campus Security in Jim Burnett Hall, Room 151 – Telephone: (828) 448-6196
      Zebedee Graham, Chief of Security & Safety, E-Mail: zgraham@wpcc.edu
  • Outside the College or Off Campus:
    • Morganton Public Safety – Telephone: 911 or (828) 437-1911

 

Be prepared to tell your name, your location, and the location and nature of the incident. If you are in a safe location, stay there. DO NOT attempt to interfere with the situation except for self-protection. Try to note distinguishing characteristics of any suspects involved. Also note a description of any vehicles involved; license number, model, make, color, and occupants.

Reporting Violent or Threatening Behavior

Any person who becomes aware of, or believes that he or she has witnessed an incident of violent or threatening behavior, or who is the recipient of threatening and/or violent behavior, should immediately report such incident(s) as follows: Violations by employees – Report all incidents to the Chief of Security and Safety, the employee’s supervisor, the supervisor’s manager, or the Human Resources office. Violations by students – Report all incidents to the Chief of Security and Safety, Dean of Student Services, or any College official.

Investigation

WPCC Security investigates all reports and obtains additional information as needed or collected during any follow-up. The Chief of Campus Security and Safety reviews all incident reports and forwards to the Dean of Student Services and/or Vice President of Administrative Services, as appropriate. If additional assistance is required, the local law enforcement agency will be contacted. Any off campus activities including, but not limited to, student organization actions, classes that engage in off-campus activities, or employees participating in college-sponsored off-campus events should report crime incidents to the local law enforcement agency where the incident occurred and to the WPCC Campus Security office. This publication contains information about on-campus and off-campus resources. The information is made available to provide the WPCC community with specific information about the resources that are available in the event that they become the victim of a crime. The information about resources is not provided to infer that those resources are “reporting entities” for WPCC. Crimes should be reported to the WPCC Campus Security office to ensure inclusion in the annual crime statistics and to aid in providing timely warning notices to the community, when appropriate. For example, a crime that was reported only to the local law enforcement agency would not be included in the WPCC crime statistics. Personal and crisis counseling is available through Student Services for any student who is the victim of a crime on WPCC’s campuses.

Confidential Reporting Procedures

If you are the victim of a crime at WPCC or while participating in a college-sponsored off-campus activity and do not want to pursue action through the college or the criminal justice system, you may still want to consider making a confidential report. With your permission, the Chief of Security and Safety or one of the WPCC Security Officers can file a report on the details of the incident without revealing your identity. The purpose of a confidential report is to comply with your wish to keep the matter confidential, while taking steps to ensure the future safety of yourself and others. With such information, the college can keep an accurate record of the number of incidents involving students, faculty, staff, and visitors; determine where there is a pattern of crime with regard to a particular location, method, or assailant; and alert the campus community to potential danger. Reports filed in this manner are counted and disclosed in the college’s annual crime statistics. Reports of crimes may also be made anonymously to Burke County Crimestoppers at (828) 437-3333. Crimestoppers will keep the caller’s identity confidential and will refer crimes that occur on campus to WPCC Campus Security. All reports are investigated and the perpetrators are either prosecuted, referred to the Dean of Student Services for discipline under the Student Code of Conduct, or both. Campus Security Officers prepare cases and testify in court or disciplinary hearings as necessary.

Daily Crime Log

A daily crime log is available for review during normal business hours at the WPCC Main Campus in the Campus Security office, Mondays through Fridays, excluding holidays. The information in the daily crime log includes the nature, date, time, general location, and disposition of each crime. Information may be withheld if release of the information may jeopardize an ongoing investigation.

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Warnings and Notifications

Western Piedmont Community College makes timely warnings and campus alerts to the college community in the event any situation arises that is considered to be an ongoing threat to students, faculty, staff, and visitors. The situation may involve safety, security, or health. Examples of these include, but are not limited to, active shooter, tornado, and dangerous chemical release. The college will immediately notify the campus community upon the confirmation of a significant emergency or dangerous situation involving an immediate threat. WPCC is prepared to take self-protection measures appropriate to the emergency, such as, but not limited to, shelter in place or evacuation, depending upon the circumstances or incident. The campus alert will result in a notification that is disseminated with the goal of notifying as many people as possible, as rapidly as possible. Warnings may be dispersed through flyers, electronic notifications using email, text, or the College Learning Platform (Moodle), local news agencies, and by notices posted on the college web site at the following address wpcc.edu. For further information faculty and staff should refer to the Emergency Action Plan found on the college’s intranet. If you should have questions or concerns related to any of the posted warnings or alerts, please contact the Chief of Security and Safety at 828.448.6196 or by email at zgraham@wpcc.edu. Alerts may include any or all of the following: Emergency Messaging System – (BEAM) This technology allows Senior Administration and Security to send an electronic message to all computers on campus. WPCC Messaging Service (V-Alert) The WPCC Messaging Service is a convenient method to voluntarily receive voice, text or email messages regarding campus emergencies and inclement weather closing announcements as well as other important campus information. Emergency Alert System- (Telephones and Speakers) Immediate notifications may also be sent through all college telephones utilizing the speaker function through the VOIP functionality. The WPCC Technology division is in the process of enabling outside speakers to communicate immediate notices to the campus. This system should be in effect for the main campus before the end of 2013. Mass e-mail WPCC may send a message via email to all students, faculty and staff through their employee or student email accounts. Local media If necessary, WPCC may need to send notifications through local media channels. All media information and contact should be directed through the Office of Student Development public relations personnel. Local media outlets include, but not limited to, the following:

  • Radio: WMNC FM, 92.1 Morganton
  • Print: The News Herald, Morganton;  The Hickory News, Hickory
  • Television: WCNC, NBC WSOC, ABC WBTV, CBS all of Charlotte; WLOS, ABC Asheville

Campus Facilities

Access to Campus Facilities

The College utilizes a burglar alarm system. This alarm system is activated at the close of each day’s activities and during all hours that the institution is closed. In the event any employee finds it necessary to enter any building during closed hours, he/she must first contact the Vice President for Administrative Services for instructions. If buildings are entered during closed hours without following correct procedures, the Morganton Department of Public Safety will assume that a burglary or attempted burglary is in progress and will act accordingly.

Maintenance of Campus Facilities

Facilities and landscaping are maintained in a manner that minimizes hazardous conditions. The WPCC Campus Security officers regularly patrol the campuses and report malfunctioning lights and other unsafe physical conditions to the college’s Maintenance or Environmental Services departments for correction and/or repair. Other members of the college community are encouraged to report equipment problems or safety hazards to the Campus Security office or to the Director of Maintenance at 828.448.6068.

Fire Evacuation Procedures

The fire alarms alert you to a potential hazard. Please heed their warning. Use the nearest fire exit to leave the building immediately. Evacuation signage is posted in each campus building. Familiarize yourself with the evacuation routes and exits in your building. The City Fire Marshall can levy a penalty for those failing to evacuate the building promptly, but a more positive reason for compliance is your own safety. For more information refer to the Emergency Action Plan on the campus intranet page under Human Resources: Safety: Emergency Action Plan.

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Drug and Alcohol Policy

Western Piedmont Community College recognizes its obligations to all employees, students, and the general public to provide and maintain a safe environment which is free of alcohol and illegal drugs.  This policy is in accordance with the requirements set forth by the Federal Drug-Free Schools and Campuses Act of 1989 with amendments.  In the event of a conflict between the provisions of this policy and related federal law, federal law shall always prevail.  This policy is intended to ensure the safety and well-being of employees and students as well as the general public.  All employees and students of the College, including full-time, trainee, part-time, regular hourly, and temporary, are expected to acknowledge an understanding of this policy and to abide by its provisions. The use and abuse of drugs and alcohol are subjects of concerns in our society.  Drug and alcohol problems can be extremely complex and there are usually no easy solutions.  From a safety perspective, the users of drugs or alcohol may impair the well-being of our employees, our students, and the public at large.  Drug and alcohol use may result in property damage.  The illegal/improper use of drugs and alcohol may also violate local, state, and federal laws. It is the policy of Western Piedmont Community College to prohibit the following acts:

  1. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, sale, possession, or use of a controlled substance/counterfeit substance or alcohol while in the workplace, on college premises, or as part of any college-sponsored activities.
  2. Reporting to the worksite, classroom, or campus while unable to perform due to the use of drugs, prescribed by a physician or purchased over-the-counter.

 

Awareness Efforts

Employees and students will be reminded of the provisions of the Federal Drug-Free Workplace and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Acts and their expected conduct annually. Resources will be available describing:

  1. Health risks associated with alcohol and drug use (Attachment 2),
  2. Appropriate sanctions for violation of federal, state and local laws (Attachment 2), and
  3. Available treatment options/programs (Attachment 3).

Multiple avenues promoting a drug-free campus and workplace will be employed that include, but will not be limited to:

  1. Articles in the student publication, “Pioneer Press”,
  2. Employee/student e-mail communications/articles,
  3. Web-based orientation assignments,
  4. Printed material/flyers,
  5. Health fairs, and
  6. Web-based resources with links to related sites.

Should prevention fail, resources are available for students or employees having drug or alcohol- related problems. Student counseling/referral resources are available through Student Services located in Hildebrand Hall. Faculty and staff resources are available through Western Piedmont’s Employee Assistance Program.

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Standards of Conduct

All WPCC employees and students are expected to understand this policy and to abide by its provisions. Student Responsibilities Self-discipline is an integral part of all students’ education. Students will maintain standards of conduct appropriate for students; however, in those rare instances when individuals interfere with the rights of others to educational opportunities, the College will maintain order. To this end, the WPCC Student Handbook contains a Student Code of Conduct to which students will adhere. The prohibition of alcohol and drugs is an integral part of this code. Any student convicted of any criminal drug statute violation must notify the Dean of Student Services in writing not later than five (5) calendar days after such conviction. Failure to provide notification may result in expulsion. Employee Responsibilities

  1. Any employee using prescribed medication under a doctor’s direction, and any employee taking prescription or over-the-counter medication that could alter their ability to perform the duties and responsibilities of their position, must notify the Director of Human Resources. Such employees are responsible for finding out from a health care professional the effects of any drug being taken. Failure to obtain such information will not restrict disciplinary action under this policy. If, in the opinion of the employee’s supervisor and the Director of Human Resources, an employee’s action and/or behavior are considered unsafe as a result of using the medication, the employee may be sent home on sick leave. Other options include referral to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and/or temporary assignment. Failure to notify the Director of Human Resources shall be cause for disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.
  2. Employees are responsible for notifying the Director of Human Resources in writing within five (5) calendar days after an arrest and/or indictment or conviction on drug related charges. A conviction means a finding of guilt (including a plea of nolo contendere) or the imposition of a sentence by a judge or jury in any federal or state court. Failure to do so will be considered as employment related negligence of duty. Convictions of employees working under federal grants, for violation drug laws in the workplace, on college premises, or as part of any college sponsored activity, shall be reported to the appropriate federal agency. The Director of Human Resources must notify the U. S. Government agency, with which the grant was made, within ten (10) days after receiving notice from the employee or otherwise receives actual notice of a violation of a criminal drug statue occurring in the workplace. The college shall take appropriate disciplinary action with 30 calendar days from receipt of notice. As a condition of further employment on any federal government grant, the law requires all employees to abide by this policy.
  3. Any employee convicted of an off-the-job related offense which could directly or indirectly affect their credibility or ability to carry out effectively the duties and responsibilities of his/her position at Western Piedmont Community College shall be subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.
  4. Any employee whose job requires a valid vehicle operator’s license and who is convicted of a violation for driving while impaired, resulting in a revocation of such license, must report this revocation to the Director of Human Resources. The Director shall determine whether revocation shall interfere with a minimum level of job performance
  5. During the statutorily required initial ―ten-day revocation periodǁ temporary job assignment may be necessary. If, upon conviction, revocation of the operator’s license is for one year or more, and no restricted license can be obtained, the College may either assign the employee to another job for which he/she is qualified or may terminate the employee for cause. In the event the employee is retained, a mandatory referral to the EAP is required as a condition of continued employment. Failure to notify the Director of Human Resources shall be cause for disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.

 

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Sanctions

  1. Western Piedmont Community College does not differentiate between unlawful users, pushers, or sellers of controlled substances or alcohol. Any employee or student who possesses, uses, sells, gives, or in any way transfers a controlled substance or alcoholic beverage to another person, or manufactures a controlled substance while in the work place, on college premises, or as part of any college sponsored activity, will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination or expulsion and referral for prosecution. In the event of a conflict between the provisions of this policy and related federal law, federal law shall always prevail.
  2. The term “controlled substance” means any drug listed in 21 CFR Part 1308 and other federal regulations, as well as those listed in Article V, Chapter 90 of North Carolina General Statutes. Generally, these are drugs which have a high potential for abuse. Such drugs include, but are not limited to, “Heroin, Marijuana, Cocaine, PCP, and Crack.” They also include “legal drugs” which are not prescribed by a licensed physician. The term alcoholic beverage includes beer, wine, liquor, and any other beverage listed in Chapter18B of the General Statutes of North Carolina. Additional “terms” may be found at Attachment 1.
  3. A description of applicable state sanctions and the health risks associated with the use of both illicit drugs and alcohol is at Attachment 2.

Procedures for Disciplinary Action

Commission of one or more of the above prohibited acts on the WPCC campus shall be deemed unacceptable personal conduct, subject to disciplinary action. WPCC’s immediate response to such situations shall be in accordance with the following requirements and other related procedures contained in the WPCC Policy Manual (see Non-Reappointment of Employees, Suspension or Dismissal Procedures, Employee Grievance Procedures, and Student Due Process).

  1. Any employee and/or student determined by administrative investigation to be involved in the manufacture, distribution, or selling of illegal substances on campus shall be terminated or expelled.
  2. Any employee and/or student determined by administrative investigation to be on campus and in possession of alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription drugs not prescribed to that person shall receive a written warning and may be subject to other disciplinary action.
  3. Any employee and/or student on campus determined by administrative investigation to be impaired by alcohol or drugs, including drugs prescribed by a physician and over-the-counter drugs, shall be ordered to leave the campus and may be subject to other disciplinary action.

Following an investigation, the Dean of Student Services and/or the Director of Human Resources shall schedule a conference with the student or employee to review the results of the investigation and to give the employee and/or student an opportunity to respond at a due process hearing. When findings of an employee investigation include substantiated evidence of abuse and/or impairment, the employee shall receive a written warning and be referred to WPCC’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) as a condition for continued employment. If the employee fails to meet scheduled EAP conferences and/or fails to complete recommended treatment, this shall be grounds for employee dismissal. In the same instance, a student will be referred to community agencies for counseling and may be readmitted upon the successful completion of an appropriate program.

Other Provisions and Procedures

  1. All employees and/or students have an obligation to report observed and suspected violations of this policy to their teacher, supervisor, or College management.
  2. The Director of Human Resources is assigned responsibility and authority to establish supplemental policies and procedures necessary to the implementation and administration of this policy.
  3. The Employee Assistance Program’s (EAP) responsibility for supervision and employee awareness will be to assist agencies in meeting compliance requirements.  The EAP serves as the staff resource in the development and communication of employee awareness and training programs.  In the case of “emergency situations” or “mandatory referrals” the EAP agrees to schedule an assessment within three (3) working days of receiving the referral.  Assessment services include:
    1. Providing initial assessment and evaluation of all referrals (supervisory, self-referrals, and employee’s family members).
    2. Referring the individual to the most appropriate available resource in a timely and efficient manner.
    3.  Maintaining a network of community resources and being knowledgeable about available services and their costs.
    4. Liaison with the Director of Human Resources.
    5. Monitoring an employee’s attendance and completion of services utilized.
    6. Maintaining discretion and confidentiality of all personnel and personal information concerning program participants.

 

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Weapons on Campus

Weapons Policy

It is unlawful for any individual, aside from law enforcement, from carrying a “weapon”, with or without a concealed permit, onto a community college campus.  A “weapon” includes firearms, explosives, BB guns, stun guns, air rifles or pistols and certain types of knives or other sharp instruments.  This does not apply to “weapons” used solely for instructional or College sanctioned ceremonial purposes, in any College building or vehicle, on any College grounds, recreational area, athletic field, or other property owned, used or operated by the Trustees of Western Piedmont Community College. N.C.G.S. 14-269.2 permits a person to bring a handgun onto a community college campus under the following limited circumstances:

  1. The firearm is a handgun; AND
  2. The individual has a valid concealed handgun permit (or is exempt from the law requiring a permit); AND
  3. The handgun remains in either: a closed compartment or container within the individual with the permit’s locked vehicle; or a locked container securely affixed to the individual with the permit’s locked vehicle; AND
  4. The vehicle is only unlocked when the individual with the permit is entering or exiting the vehicle; AND
  5. The handgun remains in the closed compartment at all times.

Unless otherwise provided by law, no individual aside from law enforcement may have any weapons on campus and individuals with a concealed carry permit can only have a handgun on a community college campus as expressly outlined in the limited situation above.  Failure to follow these rules could result in the violation of North Carolina laws and criminal prosecution. This law does not apply to a weapon used solely for educational or College sanctioned ceremonial purposes, or used in a College approved program conducted under the supervision of an adult whose supervision is approved by the proper College authority. Furthermore, this law does not apply to armed forces personnel, officers, and soldiers of the militia and National Guard, law enforcement personnel, any private police employed by the College, when acting in the discharge of their official duties.

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Harassment/Sexual Assault

Disability Harassment

Western Piedmont Community College prohibits any form of disability harassment involving any of its employees or between a College employee and a student of the College in the College relationship, whether it is in the form of a College employee harassing a student with a disability or a student with a disability harassing a College employee. The College has a firm belief and has established a policy that all employees are entitled to work and all students are entitled to learn in an environment free of discrimination based on a disability. Any act, comment, or behavior which is of a harassing nature and which in any way interferes with an employee or a student’s performance or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment is strictly prohibited. Any student or employee who feels he or she has been subjected to harassment due to a disability may file a complaint with the Disability Access Office. Complaints involving the Disability Access Office should be filed with the Vice President of Administrative Services. Complaints involving the Vice President of Administrative Services should be filed with the President.

Sexual Harassment

Western Piedmont Community College is committed to providing a classroom and workforce environment free from sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination, illegal under state and federal law and a violation of College policy. Sexual harassment may affect any member of the College community—students, faculty and staff. Complaints are dealt with promptly and appropriate action is taken. Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to learn more about their rights and responsibilities with regard to this issue. Any inquiries you may make will be handled with professionalism and confidentiality. Students may contact the Dean of Student Services in Hildebrand Hall. Employees may contact the Director of Human Resources in Moore Hall. Guidelines for filing a grievance are found in the Student Handbook and in the Policy Manual.

Sexual Assault

Sexual assaults, including date or acquaintance rape, are a serious concern to the college and will not be tolerated. Victims of sexual assaults should get to a safe place and then seek medical treatment as soon as possible (preferably within 72 hours). Time is a critical factor for evidence collection and preservation. Victims should notify the Campus Security at 828-448-6196, or contact any of the “campus security authorities” for help. If the assault occurred off campus, Campus Security will help the victim file a report with the appropriate law enforcement agency. The filing of a report does not obligate the victim to pursue charges, but does make filing of charges easier at a later date. To aid the police investigation, victims of sexual assault should take these steps to help preserve evidence:

  • Try to preserve all physical evidence
  • Do not shower or bathe before the medical exam.
  • Do not change your clothes; but if you do, save all your clothing and give them to the police.
  • Do not disturb or alter the crime scene.
  • Document any injury you suffered, either by photograph or by showing it to someone you trust.

Options available to sexual assault victims are resolution through the college and/or the judicial system (criminal and/or civil). Western Piedmont Community College will assist in pursuing option(s) elected by the victim. The college and the courts are independent systems; charges may be filed in either or both systems. Counseling services for sexual assault victims are available both on and off campus. Security, Human Resources, Advisors, Counselors, and Student Services Personnel may provide counseling or referrals to off-campus resources. The appropriate county organizations will also be notified. Additionally, instructional personnel will make every reasonable effort to assist victims of sexual assault by providing options for changing academic conditions whenever possible. The college responds to all violations of the Student Code of Conduct, including all sex offenses, forcible or non-forcible. Both the accuser and the accused are entitled to the same opportunities to have others present during the proceedings, and both parties of any sex offense hearing shall be informed of the outcome of any campus disciplinary proceedings brought alleging a sex offense. Violations of the Student Code of Conduct may result in immediate sanctions, including probation or suspension from the college by the President, upon recommendation by a college Vice President, or expulsion from the college by the President, upon recommendation by a college Vice President. Additionally, the college may defer imposition of sanctions pending the outcome of an investigation. Students who wish to appeal any sanction should consult the Student Grievance Procedure as outlined in the Student Code of Conduct. If an assault victim does not wish to pursue action with the college or the judicial system, the victim may make an anonymous report. With the victim’s permission, the college can file a report on the details of the incident without revealing the victim’s identity. This type of anonymous report helps to ensure the future safety of the victim and others. With such information, the college can keep accurate records about the number of incidents involving students, determine where there is a pattern of assaults with regard to a particular location, method, or assailant, and alert the campus community to potential danger.

Resources for Victims of Sexual Assault

Emergency – 911 WPCC Campus Security – 448-6196 WPCC Emergency, Information Desk – 448-3500 WPCC Counseling – 448-3565 Options Victim Assistance program – 438-9444 Morganton Public Safety – 911 or 437-1211 NC Victim’s Compensation Services/Rape Victim Assistance Program at 1-800-826-6200 NC SAVAN (Statewide Automated Victim Assistance & Notification) at RAINN (Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network) at 1.800.656.HOPE (4673), or www.rainn.org. Because of the traumatic nature of sexual assault, victims are encouraged to seek immediate counseling. Options Victim Assistance program provides services to victims of sexual assault.

Registered Sex Offenders

The North Carolina Sex Offender and Public Protection Registry was established in January 1996 with the General Assembly’s enactment of Article 27A of Chapter 14 of the North Carolina General Statutes (NCGS 14-208.5).  This law requires persons living in North Carolina, non-resident students, and non-resident workers who are residents or who relocate to North Carolina and who have a reportable conviction to maintain registration with the sheriff of the county where they reside.  The law also requires non-resident students and workers to maintain registration with the sheriff in the county where they attend school or work.  Students seeking information about registered sex offenders in the region may contact the local Sheriff’s Department or go to the NC Bureau of Invesitgation website at http://sexoffender.ncdoj.gov/.

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Traffic/Parking Regulations

All students, faculty and staff who operate or park vehicles on campus are subject to traffic rules and regulations. A handbook of traffic rules and regulations is available in the Business Office. The regulations pertain to everyone and are strictly enforced. Campus Security patrols the campus and issues tickets with a maximum penalty of $250 for vehicles that are in violation of the handicapped parking regulations. All parking violations except handicapped areas are $5.00 per ticket. Six violations will result in further disciplinary action. Unpaid fines will result in the inability of students to register for subsequent semesters or the non-issuance of transcripts. Appeals forms can be obtained in the Business Office. All persons parking on campus are encouraged to lock vehicles and pocket the keys. The College cannot be held responsible for property left in vehicles. All accidents should be reported to the College Information Desk personnel in Moore Hall. Since the campus is under the jurisdiction of the City of Morganton Department of Public Safety, local officers are called when necessary. It is the responsibility of those involved in an accident to report the accident.

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Smoking/Tobacco Use

Western Piedmont Community College is committed to providing its employees and students with a safe and healthy working and learning environment. (G.S. 115D-20.1). Western Piedmont Community College recognizes that the use of tobacco products on campus grounds is detrimental to the health and safety of students, staff, faculty, and visitors. Western Piedmont Community College also recognizes that it has the legal authority to prohibit tobacco use pursuant to G.S.115D-20.1 and G.S. 143-599. Therefore, beginning August 1, 2014 Western Piedmont Community College will implement the following policy:

  1. Smoking and use of other tobacco products is prohibited by students, staff, faculty, or visitors:
  • In all campus buildings, facilities or property owned, leased or operated by Western Piedmont Community College, including outside areas;
  • On campus grounds, facilities or vehicles that are the property of the Community College.
  • At lectures, conferences, meetings, and social/cultural events held on college property or campus grounds.
  1. For the purposes of this policy, tobacco is defined as any type of tobacco product including, but not limited to: any product containing, made, or derived from tobacco that is intended for human consumption, whether chewed, smoked, absorbed, dissolved, inhaled, snorted, sniffed, or ingested by any other means, or any component part or accessory of a tobacco product, including but not limited to cigarettes; cigars; little cigars; cheroots; stogies; periques; granulated, plug cut, crimp cut, ready rubbed, and other smoking tobacco; snuff; snuff flour; Cavendish; plug and twist tobacco; ne-cut and other chewing tobacco; shorts; refuse scraps, clippings, cutting and sweepings of tobacco, e-cigarettes, hookah; and other kinds and forms of tobacco. A tobacco product excludes any product that has been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for sale as a tobacco cessation product, as a tobacco dependence product, or for other medical purposes, and is being marketed and sold solely for such an approved purpose. The sale or free distribution of tobacco products, including merchandise, is prohibited on campus or at school events. Student organizations are prohibited from accepting money or gifts from tobacco companies, including:
  • Parties sponsored by tobacco companies or allowing tobacco companies to distribute free, reduced-price, or fully-priced tobacco products (t-shirts, hats, etc.) on campus.
  • All tobacco advertising, such as billboards and signs owned and used by Western Piedmont Community College.
  • Tobacco advertisements are prohibited in college-run publications and on grounds or facilities, including athletic facilities, owned or used by Western Piedmont Community College.
  • Smoking and the use of tobacco products are prohibited on grounds of Western Piedmont Community College being used for private events Through existing health plans, Employee Assistance Program and community sponsors, Western Piedmont Community College will consult with appropriate health organizations to provide students and employees with information and access to QuitlineNC at 1-800-QUIT-NOW, support systems, programs and services to encourage abstinence from the use of tobacco products, including publicizing free, accessible tobacco cessation classes, seminars, and support groups on or off campus.
  1. Promotional materials for Quitline NC and cessation classes, seminars, and support groups shall appear regularly in student and staff They shall be posted in buildings, through Student Services and through other appropriate means.

Implementation and Compliance

  1. The health and wellness or appropriate committee shall develop a plan for communicating the policy to students, staff, faculty, and visitors. The administration will develop a plan for communicating the policy that may include information in student and employee handbooks, announcements at institutionally- sponsored or related events, and appropriate signage in buildings and around campus.
  2. Each curriculum and continuing education instructor shall explain the College’s tobacco-free policy at the beginning of the term of each class.
  3. Coaches of intercollegiate athletic teams will explain the policy at the beginning of each sport’s season and shall communicate the policy to the coaches of visiting teams.
  4. The college will provide appropriate signage and other physical indicators of our policy.
  1. Signs will be posted in a manner and location to adequately notify students,staff, faculty, visitors and contractors of the policy.
  1. Signs will state that smoking and the use of tobacco products are prohibited, and will include the universal “No Smoking and Use of Tobacco Products Prohibited” symbol.
  1. Smoking waste management products such as ashtrays shall be removed.

Compliance for Students

Consequences for students engaging in the prohibited behavior will be provided in accordance with the institution’s student behavior management plan. Students who violate the tobacco-use policy will be processed through established disciplinary protocol. Student violators will be provided with access to up-to-date information on the many consequences of tobacco use, offered techniques that students can use to stop tobacco use, and provided referrals to local youth tobacco cessation programs. Parents/guardians of minors will be notified of all violations and actions taken by the institution. Suspension will only be used after a student has three or more prior violations or refused to participate in other outlined measures.

Compliance for Staff and Visitors

Consequences for employees who violate the tobacco use policy will be in accordance with personnel policies of Western Piedmont Community College and may include verbal warning, written reprimand or termination. Visitors using tobacco products will be asked to refrain while on Western Piedmont Community College property or leave the premises. Community College law enforcement officers may be contacted to escort the person off the premises or cite the person for trespassing if the person refuses to leave the school property. It is the responsibility of each faculty and staff member to promote compliance with the tobacco-free policy. Instructors should use tact and good judgment in dealing with possible violations.

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Campus Safety Tips

If you develop good security habits, you can assist us in protecting you and safeguarding your property. The following are some safety measures that could help you prevent your becoming a victim of crime.

Personal Safety Tips

Walking:

  • Don’t walk alone. Campus Security officers will be more than glad to provide you an escort to your vehicle.
  • Call the switchboard at (828) 438-6000.
  • Use public, well-lighted walkways. Avoid any dark, isolated areas.
  • Look alert and hold your keys in your hand when you are walking to your vehicle.
  • Give your vehicle the quick “once over” before entering with a critical eye for possible break-ins or persons in the rear seat or floor area.

If You Are Being Followed:

  • Cross the street.
  • Change direction.
  • Keep looking back, so the person realizes you are aware of his/her presence.
  • Go to a well-lighted area.
  • Notice as many physical details as possible, so you can describe the person to the police.
  • Report the incident to the police

If You Are Alone in Your Room, Office, or Classroom:

  • Keep the door locked.
  • Always ask who is knocking before opening the door.
  • Never prop open locked exterior building doors.
  • When leaving your room (even if only for a few minutes), LOCK IT!

When You Are Driving:

  • Drive with doors locked and windows rolled up.
  • When you park, lock all doors and take your key with you.
  • Store valuables out of sight in a locked trunk or glove compartment.
  • Check the back seat and floor before you enter the vehicle.
  • As you approach the vehicle, scan the area under your vehicle and those adjacent to it.
  • Always keep at least a half tank of gas in your car.
  • Maintain the car in good running condition.
  • Avoid parking next to vans, as you can be pulled in through the sliding door.
  • Park in well-lighted areas.
  • If possible, don’t drive alone.
  • Don’t pick up hitchhikers.
  • Keep an emergency kit – containing a flashlight, flares, telephone change, distress signs and other essentials in your car.
  • If you see blue lights on the car behind you, do not pull over until you are in a well-lighted populated area.  The police officer will understand your concerns.
  • If your car breaks down and someone stops to assist you, do not get out of your vehicle; roll down the window enough to tell them to call the police.

On an Elevator:

  • Check the inside of an elevator before entering. Wait for the next elevator if you are unsure of the people inside.
  • When riding an elevator, stand by the control board. If you feel in danger, press all the buttons and get off the elevator as soon as possible.

Using ATM Machines:

  • If you feel threatened while using the ATM, push the cancel button to cancel your transaction. Just walk away and complete your transaction later.
  • Avoid using an ATM at night.
  • If you must use an ATM at night take another person with you.
  • Check around the ATM first to make sure no one is lurking in the shadows.
  • Use machines that can be clearly seen from a street or public area.
  • Use machines that are inside buildings or in well-lighted areas.

Property Protection Tips

Members of the college community are vulnerable to the same problems encountered by residents of any other metropolitan area. Campus Security’s mission is to protect this community. However, the opportunity for crime exists. The community can assist us in its efforts to reduce crime by taking the following precautions:

  • Keep cash, checks, credit cards, purses, brief cases, etc. with you at all times. Never leave them unattended or unsecured.
  • Keep your car locked at all times to help prevent theft. Store valuable items in the trunk.
  • Store computers, lab equipment and audio visual equipment in a locked classroom or office.
  • Make a record of the serial number of both personal and college property in your room or office.
  • Inscribe personal stereo, computers, etc. with your social security number.
  • Doors and windows at Western Piedmont have locks – use them!
  • Report defective locks immediately.

Athletic facilities are not immune from thieves. Try not to bring valuables (expensive watches, jewelry, wallets with cash and credit cards) with you when using the facility. Use the lockers and secure with heavy duty locks.

Textbook Protection

Textbooks are an expensive and necessary part of your college education. Take the necessary steps to protect your investment. Place your name in ink on the inside cover and other obscure areas known only to you to be able to identify your books in case of theft. Do not leave your textbooks, calculators, or book bags in unattended study rooms, hallways, library, dining area or unsecured lockers. Maintain a record of serial numbers and model of calculators, laptops, or other electronic devices. Thieves know where students leave their belongings unattended and take advantage of such an opportunity. Be suspicious of any person(s) hanging around storage areas, i.e. outside of the bookstore, with no apparent purpose.

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Crime Statistics

Here are reported crime statistics from WPCC Campus Security.

Criminal Offenses – On-Campus

Criminal Offense
2019
2020
2021
Murder/Non-Neglient Manslaughter
0
0
0
Manslaughter by Negligence
0
0
0
Rape
0
0
0
Fondling
0
0
0
Incest
0
0
0
Statutory Rape
0
0
0
Robbery
0
0
0
Aggravated Assault
0
0
0
Burglary
0
0
0
Motor Vehicle Theft
0
0
0
Arson
0
0
0

Criminal Offenses – Public Property

Criminal Offense
2019
2020
2021
Murder/Non-Neglient Manslaughter
0
0
0
Manslaughter by Negligence
0
0
0
Rape
0
0
0
Fondling
0
0
0
Incest
0
0
0
Statutory Rape
0
0
0
Robbery
0
0
0
Aggravated Assault
0
0
0
Burglary
0
0
0
Motor Vehicle Theft
0
0
0
Arson
0
0
0

Hate Crimes on Campus

2021
Criminal Offense
2021 Total
Race
Religion
Sexual
Orientation
Gender
Gender Identity
Disability
Ethnicity/National Origin
Murder / Non-Negligent Manslaughter
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Rape
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Fondling
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Incest
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Statutory Rape
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Robbery
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Aggravated Assault
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Burglary
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Motor Vehicle Theft (does not include theft from a motor vehicle)
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Arson
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Simple Assault
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Larceny-Theft
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Intimidation
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Destruction / Damage / Vandalism of Property
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2020
Criminal Offense
2020 Total
Race
Religion
Sexual
Orientation
Gender
Disability
Ethnicity/
National Origin
Murder / Non-Negligent Manslaughter
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Rape
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Fondling
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Incest
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Statutory Rape
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Robbery
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Aggravated Assault
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Burglary
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Motor Vehicle Theft (does not include theft from a motor vehicle)
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Arson
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Simple Assault
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Larceny-Theft
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Intimidation
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Destruction / Damage / Vandalism of Property
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2019
Criminal Offense
2019 Total
Race
Religion
Sexual
Orientation
Gender
Disability
Ethnicity/
National Origin
Murder / Non-Negligent Manslaughter
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Rape
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Fondling
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Incest
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Statutory Rape
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Robbery
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Aggravated Assault
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Burglary
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Motor Vehicle Theft (does not include theft from a motor vehicle)
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Arson
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Simple Assault
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Larceny-Theft
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Intimidation
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Destruction / Damage / Vandalism of Property
0
0
0
0
0
0
0

Hate Crimes – Public Property

2021
Criminal Offense
2021 Total
Race
Religion
Sexual
Orientation
Gender
Gender Identity
Disability
Ethnicity/
National Origin
Murder / Non-Negligent Manslaughter
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Rape
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Fondling
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Incest
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Statutory Rape
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Robbery
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Aggravated Assault
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Burglary
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Motor Vehicle Theft (does not include theft from a motor vehicle)
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Arson
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Simple Assault
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Larceny-Theft
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Intimidation
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Destruction / Damage / Vandalism of Property
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2020
Criminal Offense
2020 Total
Race
Religion
Sexual
Orientation
Gender
Disability
Ethnicity/
National Origin
Murder / Non-Negligent Manslaughter
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Rape
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Fondling
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Incest
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Statutory Rape
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Robbery
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Aggravated Assault
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Burglary
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Motor Vehicle Theft (does not include theft from a motor vehicle)
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Arson
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Simple Assault
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Larceny-Theft
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Intimidation
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Destruction / Damage / Vandalism of Property
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2019
Criminal Offense
2019 Total
Race
Religion
Sexual
Orientation
Gender
Disability
Ethnicity/
National Origin
Murder / Non-Negligent Manslaughter
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Rape
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Fondling
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Incest
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Statutory Rape
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Robbery
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Aggravated Assault
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Burglary
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Motor Vehicle Theft (does not include theft from a motor vehicle)
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Arson
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Simple Assault
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Larceny-Theft
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Intimidation
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Destruction / Damage / Vandalism of Property
0
0
0
0
0
0
0

VAWA Offenses on Campus

Crime
2019
2020
2021
Domestic Violence
0
0
0
Dating Violence
0
0
0
Stalking
0
0
0

VAWA Offenses – Public Property

Crime
2019
2020
2021
Domestic Violence
0
0
0
Dating Violence
0
0
0
Stalking
0
0
0

Arrests on Campus

Crime
2019
2020
2021
Weapons: carrying, possessing, etc.
0
0
0
Drug Abuse Violations
0
0
0
Liquor Law Violations
0
0
0

Arrests – Public Property

Crime
2019
2020
2021
Weapons carrying, possessing, etc.
0
0
0
Drug Abuse Violations
0
0
0
Liquor Law Violations
0
0
0

Disciplinary Actions – On Campus

Crime
2019
2020
2021
Weapons: Carrying, Possessing, etc.
1
0
0
Drug Abuse Violations
0
0
0
Liquor Law Violations
0
0
0

Disciplinary Actions – Public Property

Crime
2019
2020
2021
Weapons: Carrying, Possessing, etc.
0
0
0
Drug Abuse Violations
0
0
0
Liquor Law Violations
0
0
0

Unfounded Crimes

2019
2020
2021
Total Unfounded Crimes
0
0
0

The included tables reflect crime statistics mandated by the “Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act” that have been compiled by the Western Piedmont Community College Campus Security office. These tables include all reports made to WPCC Campus Security as well as officials of the college who have significant responsibility for student and campus activities. The Public Property portion of the tables reflects those statistics that Morganton Department of Public Safety provided.

On-Campus:

  1. Any building or property owned or controlled by an institution within the same reasonably contiguous geographic area and used by the institution in direct support of or in a manner related to the institution’s educational purposes, including residence halls; and
  2. Any building or property that is within or reasonably contiguous to the area identified in paragraph (1), that is owned by the institution but controlled by another person, is frequently used by students and supports institutional purposes (such as a food or retail vendor).

Western Piedmont Community College has no residence halls or housing facilities. Non-Campus Building Or Property:

  1. Any building or property owned or controlled by a student organization that is officially recognized by the institution; or
  2. Any building or property owned or controlled by an institution that is used in direct support of or in relation to the institution’s educational purposes, is frequently used by students, and is not within the same reasonably contiguous geographic area of the institution.

Western Piedmont Community College has no off-campus housing or student organization facilities. Public Property: All public property, including thoroughfares, streets, sidewalks, and parking facilities, that is within the campus or immediately adjacent to and accessible from the campus. The Western Piedmont crime statistics do not include crimes that occur in privately owned homes or businesses on or adjacent to Western Piedmont’s campus, buildings, or property.

Western Piedmont Community College Locations

  • Main Campus: The Main Campus located at 1001 Burkemont Avenue, Morganton, NC 28655
  • Richardson Complex: 200 East College Dr. Morganton, NC 28655
  • Foothills Higher Education Center: 2128 South Sterling St. Morganton, NC 28655

Other Property without an Address:

  • Building Construction Building
  • Emergency Services Training Complex
  • Farm
  • Firing Range
  • Silo Barn
  • Miscellaneous Structures used for storage

Public Property: Includes public streets passing through the campus; public property and streets immediately adjacent to and accessible from the campus as reported to Western Piedmont Campus Security and/or Morganton Department of Public Safety.

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Appendix 1 – Terms

Drug and Alcohol

Illegal drugs are drugs, which are not legally obtainable, and drugs which are legally obtainable but have been obtained in a manner which is illegal. Impaired performance or behavior shall mean such work performance and/or behavior which indicate to an observer that the employee’s or student’s ability to handle assignments safely and efficiently may be compromised. Prohibited Acts shall include: 1) the unlawful manufacture, distribution, sale, possession, or use of a controlled substance/counterfeit substance or alcohol while in the workplace, on college premises, or as part of any college-sponsored activities, and/or; 2) Reporting to the worksite, classroom, or campus while unable to perform due to the use of drugs, prescribed by a physician or purchased over-the-counter. Substantiated evidence shall mean that the impairment of work performance or behavior is deemed consistent with alcohol or drug abuse. Medical tests or other tests may be used to substantiate impairment.

Definitions of reportable crimes

Murder Related
  • Murder and non-negligent manslaughter: The willful (non-negligent) killing of one human by another
  • Negligent manslaughter: The killing of another person through gross negligence
Sexual Related
  • Fondling Forcible: The touching of the private body parts of another person for the purpose of sexual gratification, forcibly and/or against that person’s will; or, not forcibly or against the person’s will, where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his or her youth or because of his or her temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.
  • Incest: Non-forcible sexual intercourse between persons who are related to each other within the degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by law.
  • Rape – Forcible: The carnal knowledge of a person, forcibly and/or against that person’s will; or not forcibly or against the person’s will, where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his or her temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity (or because of his or her youth). 24
  • Sexual assault with an object: The use of an object or instrument to unlawfully penetrate, however slightly, the genital or anal opening of the body of another person, forcibly and/or against that person’s will; or not forcibly or against the person’s will, where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his or her youth or because of his or her temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.
  • Sodomy – Forcible: Oral or anal sexual intercourse with another person, forcibly and/or against that person’s will; or not forcibly against the person’s will, where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his or her youth or because of his or her temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.
  • Statutory Rape: Non-forcible sexual intercourse with a person who is under the statutory age of consent.
Theft Related
  • Burglary: The unlawful entry of a structure to commit a felony or a theft. For reporting purposes, this definition includes: unlawful entry with intent to commit a larceny or a felony, breaking and entering with intent to commit a larceny, housebreaking, safecracking, and all attempts to commit any of the aforementioned acts. Larceny/Theft: The unlawful taking, carrying, leading, or riding away of property from the possession or constructive possession of another. (Note: Constructive possession is defined by Black’s Law Dictionary, 6th ed. as “where one does not have physical custody or possession, but is in a position to exercise dominion or control over a thing.”)
  • Motor vehicle theft: The theft or attempted theft of a motor vehicle. (Motor vehicle theft is classified as any case where an automobile is taken by a person not having lawful access, even if the vehicle is later abandoned, including joy riding.)
  • Pocket-picking: The theft of articles from another person’s physical possession by stealth where the victim usually does not become immediately aware of the theft.
  • Purse-snatching: The grabbing or snatching of a purse, handbag, etc., from the physical possession of another person.
  • Robbery: The taking or attempting to take anything of value from the care, custody, or control of a person or persons by force or threat of force or violence and/or by putting the victim in fear.
  • Shoplifting: The theft, by someone other than an employee of the victim, of goods or merchandise exposed for sale.
  • Theft From Building: A theft from within a building that is either open to the general public or where the offender has legal access.
  • Theft From Coin Operated Machine or Device: A theft from a machine or device that is operated or activated by the use of coins.
  • Theft From Motor Vehicle (Except “Theft of Motor Vehicle Parts or Accessories”): The theft of articles from a motor vehicle, whether locked or unlocked.
  • Theft of Motor Vehicle Parts or Accessories: The theft of any part or accessory affixed to the interior or exterior of a motor vehicle in a manner that would make the item an attachment of the vehicle, or necessary for its operation.
  • All Other Larceny: All thefts that do not fit any of the definitions of the specific subcategories of Larceny/Theft listed above.
Other Crimes
  • Aggravated assault: An unlawful attack by one person upon another for the purpose of inflicting severe or aggravated bodily injury. This type of assault usually is accompanied by the use of a weapon or by a means likely to produce death or great bodily harm. (It is not necessary that injury result from an aggravated assault when a gun, knife, or other weapon is used that could and probably would result in serious personal injury if the crime were successfully completed.)
  • Arson: Any willful or malicious burning or attempt to burn, with or without intent to defraud, a dwelling house, public building, motor vehicle or aircraft, personal property of another, etc.
  • Destruction/Damage/Vandalism of Property (Except “Arson”): To willfully or maliciously destroy, damage, deface, or otherwise injure real or personal property without the consent of the owner or the person having custody or control of it.
  • Drug Abuse Violations: Violations of state and local laws relating to the unlawful possession, sale, use, growing, manufacturing, and making of narcotic drugs. The relevant substances include opium or cocaine and their derivatives (morphine, heroin, codeine); marijuana; synthetic narcotics (demerol, methadones); and dangerous non-narcotic drugs (barbiturates, benzedrine).
  • Liquor Law Violations: The violation of laws or ordinance prohibiting: the manufacture, sale, transporting, furnishing, possessing of intoxicating liquor; maintaining unlawful drinking places; bootlegging; operating a still; furnishing liquor to minor or intemperate person; using a vehicle for illegal transportation of liquor; drinking on a train or public conveyance; all attempts to commit any of the aforementioned.
  • Intimidation: To unlawfully place another person in reasonable fear of bodily harm through the use of threatening words and/or other conduct, but without displaying a weapon or subjecting the victim to actual physical attack.
  • Simple Assault: An unlawful physical attack by one person upon another where neither the offender displays a weapon, nor the victim suffers obvious severe or aggravated bodily injury involving apparent broken bones, loss of teeth, possible internal injury, severe laceration or loss of consciousness.
  • Weapon Law Violations: The violation of laws or ordinances dealing with weapon offenses, regulatory in nature, such as manufacture, sale, or possession of deadly weapons; carrying deadly weapons, concealed or openly; furnishing deadly weapons to minors; aliens possessing deadly weapons; all attempts to commit any of the aforementioned.

Source: Uniform Crime Reporting Handbook, 2004; U.S. Department of Justice 

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Appendix 2 – Drugs and Alcohol and Their Risks

Drugs and Their Risks

Types of Drugs:Health Risks:
Schedule I: Heroin, LSD, Peyote, Mescaline, Psilocybin (“Shrooms”), Other Hallucinogens, Methaqualone (Quaaludes) Phencyclidine (PCP), and MDAPsychologically and physically addictive; depression, withdrawal symptoms, convulsions, death, unpredictable behavior with hallucinogens; possible damage to unborn fetus.
Schedule II: Morphine, Demerol, codeine, Percodan, Percocet, Fentanyl, Dilaudid, Secondal, Nembutal, cocaine, Amphetamines,
and other opium and opium extracts and
narcotics.
Psychologically and physically addictive; withdrawal symptoms, convulsions, respiratory failure, frequent accidents; possible damage to unborn fetus; death; cocaine and amphetamines increase blood pressure which can lead to irregular heartbeat and death; amphetamines can cause agitation, increase in body temperature, hallucinations convulsions, possible death.
Schedule III: Certain barbiturates such as amobarbitol and codeine containing medicine such as Fiorinal #3, Doriden, Tylenol #3, Empirin #3, and codeine-based cough suppressants such as Tussionex and Hycomine.
Psychologically and physically addictive; potential liver damage, nausea and vomiting, dizziness, disorientation, shallow breathing,
cold and clammy skin, coma, possible death;
withdrawal symptoms include anxiety,
tremors, insomnia, convulsions, possible
damage to unborn fetus.
Schedule IV: Barbiturates, narcotics and stimulants including valium, Talwin, Librium, Equanil, Darvon, Carvocet, Placidyl, Tranzene, Serax, Lonamin (yellow jackets).Psychologically and physically addictive; drowsiness, withdrawal symptoms, tremors, abdominal and muscle cramps, insomnia, anxiety, convulsions, possible death; possible damage to unborn fetus.
Schedule V: Compounds that contain very limited amounts of codeine, dihydrocodeine, ethylmorphine, opium, and atropine, such as Terpine Hydrate with codeine, Robitussin AC.Psychologically and physically addictive; nausea, gastrointestinal symptoms, drowsiness, withdrawal symptoms including runny nose, watery eyes, panic, chills, cramps, irritability, nausea; possible damage to unborn fetus.
Schedule VI: Marijuana, THC, Hashish, Hash Oil, Tetrahydrocannabinoi.Psychologically addictive; increased risk of lung cancer, bronchitis, and emphysema; contributes to heart disease, fatigue, paranoia, possible psychosis; withdrawal symptoms including insomnia, hyperactivity and decreased appetite; depression of the immune system; decreased sperm count in men and irregular ovulation in women.

Alcohol and Its Risks

Types of AlcoholHealth Risks
Malt Beverage is beer, 1/2 of 1% to 6% alcohol.

Unfortified Wine is wine not more than 17% alcohol.

Fortified Wine is wine of not more than 24% alcohol.

Spirituous LIquor is distilled spirits of ethyl alcohol, including spirits of wine, whiskey, rum, brandy, gin, etc. Mixed Beverage is a drink composed in whole or part of spirituous liquor and served at restaurants, hotels and private clubs licensed by the State.		Psychologically and physically addictive; respiratory depression; depression of the immune system; increased risk of heart disease, cancer, accidents, hypertension; brain damage; damage to unborn fetus; impotence at high dosage levels.

North Carolina Legal Penalites Regarding Drugs

To PossessTo Possess with Intent to Sell/Deliver
Schedule I Maximum Penalty: Five (5) years in prison and/or fine. (Felony)Schedule I Maximum Penalty: Ten (10) years in prison and/or fine (Felony)
Schedule II Maximum Penalty: Two (2) years in prison and/or $2,000 fine (Misdemeanor) -- UNLESS--
1. Exceeds (4) tables, capsules, other dosage units or equivalent quality of Hydromorphone.
2. Exceeds (100) tablets, capsules, other dosage units or equivalent quantity.
3. One gram or more of Cocaine. Maximum penalty Five (5) years in prison and/or fine (Felony)		Schedule II Maximum Penalty: Ten (10) years in prison and/or fine (Felony)
Schedule III Maximum Penalty: To posess less than 100 tablets, capsules, other dosage units or equivalent quantity: Two (2) years in prison and/or fine (Misdemeanor)Schedule III Maximum Penalty: Five (5) years in prison and/or fine (Felony)
Schedule IV Maximum Penalty: Same as Schedule III.Schedule IV Maximum Penalty: Five (5) years in prison and/or fine (Felony)
Schedule V Maximum Penalty: Six (6) months in prison and/or fine (Misdemeanor)Schedule V Maximum Penalty: Five (5) years in prison and/or fine (Felony)
Schedule VI Maximum Penalty: To posses less than 1/2 ounce of Marijuana or 1/20 ounce of Hashish: Thirty (30) days in prison and/or $100 fine (Misdemeanor) To possess more than 1/2 ounce of Marijuana or 3/20 ounce of Hashish or consists of any quantity of Tetra-hydrocannabinoids or synthetic Tetrahydrocannabinoids or Tetrahydrocannabinoids isolated from the resin of Marijuanna: Five (5) years in prison and/or fine (Felony)Schedule VI Maximum Penalty: Five (5) years in prison and/or fine (Felony)

North Carolina Legal Penalties Regarding Alcohol

To Possess, Attempt to Purchase, or Purchase; To Sell or Give: Malt Beverages, Unfortified Wine, Fortified Wine, Spirituous Liquor, or Mixed Beverages to Anyone Under Twenty-one (21) Years Old:To Possess with Intent To Sell or Aider and Abbettor:
Maximum Penalty: Imprisonment for a term not exceeding two (2) years or a fine, or both, in the discretion of the court. (Misdemeanor), However, to possess, attempt to purchase, or purchase by 19 or 20 Year Old is an infraction punishable by a fine not to exceed twenty-five dollars ($25).1. By any person who is under (21) years of age to purchase and who aids or abets another to attempt to purchase, purchase or to possess; sell or give shall be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than six (6) months and/or a fine up to five hundred dollars ($500).

2. By any person over (21) years of age to purchase and who aids or abets another to attempt to purchase, purchase or to possess; sell or give shall be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than two (2) years and/or a fine up to two thousand dollars ($2,000).General status 186-302.

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Appendix 3- Resource Contact Information

Resources for Drug and Alcohol Abuse

Local

  • Alcoholics Anonymous:  828-433-4440
  • Burke Council on Alcoholism & Chemical Dependency:  828-433-1221
  • Burke County Health Department:  828-439-4400
  • Burke County Sheriff’s Office:  828-438-5500
  • Counseling Group (Employee Assistance Program):  828-438-0215
  • Drug Helpline:  800-662-4357
  • Morganton Department of Public Safety:  828-437-1211
  • Narcotics Anonymous:  800-827-9106

National 

  • American Council on Alcoholism:  1-800-527-5344
  • A-Anon:  1-800-356-9996
  • Cocaine Hotline:  1-800-688-4232
  • Drug-Free Workplace Help Line:  1-800-967-5752  www.drugfreeworkplace.gov
  • National Institute on Drug Abuse Hotline:  1-800-662-HELP

Substance Abuse Resources:

Resources for Victims of Sexual Assault

Resources for Mental and Physical Health Resources

Social Services Resources

 

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