Compliance With The "Timely Warning" Provisions Of The Crime Awareness And Campus Security Act Of 1990
Since September 1, 1991 all institutions of higher learning have been required to comply with the "Timely Warning" provisions of this federal law, herein referred to as the Act.
The Chief of the Police Department, or appointed designee officials in a position of authority will initiate action for a "timely warning" to the community once it has been determined that a "threat" to the community exists. This can occur any day of the week, time of the day. The designated official(s) will draft the appropriate notice to the community and see to it that it be posted through distribution to:
- Designated Residence Life officials or staff.
- Media Relations Director.
- Campus Police website.
The duty to provide 'timely reports' is applied only to occurrences of the six crimes which are required to be disclosed in the Annual Report, and then only in circumstances where they are 'considered to be a threat to other students and employees.' The critical factor here, once again, is that the institution has knowledge of the incidents.
Signing Up For Emergency Alerts
Northern Michigan University continues to provide a safe learning, living and working environment for students and employees. It is critical that NMU and its student, faculty and employee population be able to effectively communicate in emergency situations.
All students and employees may sign up for notification regarding all campus emergencies through a text message and e-mail alert system. Registration is free at NMU Alerts.
Definition Of "Campus Security Authorities" As Relates To The Statistical Reporting Requirements For Compliance With The Crime Awareness And Campus Security Act Of 1990
"Section 204 of the Act also requires an institution to make timely reports to the campus community on the following crimes 'reported to campus security authorities or local police agencies' that are considered to be a threat to other students and employees: murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary and motor vehicle theft. Institutions should recognize that the term 'campus security authorities' is broader than the term 'campus police force.' Specifically, the Department understands the term 'campus security authorities' to include (1) any individual or entity specified in an institution's statement of campus security policy as the individual or entity to whom students and others should report criminal offenses, as well as (2) administrative officials having primary responsibility for student and campus activities, such as STUDENT COUNSELORS, deans and campus residence directors. The institution must provide these reports in a manner that is timely and will aid in the prevention of similar crimes. The Secretary (of Education) recommends that the institution meet with the institution's security personnel, and local and State law enforcement authorities to discuss what is reasonable in terms of the timely reporting of these crimes."