Purpose

This policy establishes the University’s authority to respond to student conduct that may also constitute criminal behavior and to take appropriate interim actions when necessary to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the University community. It clarifies the relationship between University disciplinary proceedings and external criminal proceedings.

Scope

This policy applies to all Hofstra University students who are charged with or alleged to have engaged in conduct that may violate criminal law or the Code of Community Standards. It governs the University’s authority to report misconduct to law enforcement, impose interim measures such as summary suspension, and pursue disciplinary action independently of any criminal investigation or court proceeding.

Policy

The University reserves the right to report certain acts of misconduct performed on University property to the appropriate civil authorities. Such acts include any criminal conduct in violation of the laws of the state of New York or federal statute.

Regardless of the location of the incident or the identity of the victim, if a Hofstra University student is charged with a felony, the University, if it determines it is appropriate to do so to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the accused student, complaining student, and/or the Hofstra community, reserves the right to summarily suspend the student charged with a felony. The University reserves the right to take action under the Code of Community Standards prior to the disposition of any action that may result from criminal proceedings. Disciplinary action at the University may normally proceed during the pendency of the criminal proceedings and will not be subject to challenge on the grounds that criminal charges involving the same incident have been dismissed or reduced or that no criminal charges have been brought.

Related Policies and References

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