2020 Crime Awareness and Public Safety ("Clery Act") Report: December 8,2020

Introduction

This information is presented in accordance with the required reporting under the Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act of 1990, as amended, including specifically the Campus Sexual Violence Elimination Act (a 2013 amendment to the Campus Security Act), and the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act, as amended, the applicable Higher Education Amendments, including the Higher Education Reauthorization Act of 1998, as amended, as well as the Equity in Athletics Disclosure Act, as amended.

Graduation Rates

Washington and Lee University awards the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees, normally completed in four years. Statistical information on student retention may be obtained from the Office of Institutional Effectiveness in Early-Fielding. W&L offers no athletically-related aid. The six-year completion rate for our cohort of 454 full-time students who entered Washington and Lee University in Fall 2015 is 94%.

Equity in Athletics Disclosure Act Report

In accordance with the requirements of the Equity in Athletics Disclosure Act, Washington and Lee University prepares an annual report on its intercollegiate men's and women's athletic program participation rates and financial support data. The report is on file with and may be obtained by any student, prospective student, or member of the public from the Office of the Athletic Director, the Admissions Office, and the Public Affairs Office. This report data may also be reviewed at the following Department of Education website by searching for Washington and Lee University data: http://ope.ed.gov/athletics/#/institution/search.

Crime Awareness and Campus Public Safety Report

This campus awareness and public safety information is presented in accordance with the required reporting under the Clery Act ("The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act," formerly The Campus Security Act of 1990), as amended, including specifically the Campus Sexual Violence Elimination Act (a 2013 amendment to the Campus Security Act), and the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act, as amended, and the applicable Higher Education Amendments, including the Higher Education Reauthorization Act of 1998, as amended.

Washington and Lee University is a private liberal arts institution, comprising a community of just over 3,000 people (approximately 1,866 undergraduates, 381 law students, and 1,173 faculty and staff in ongoing positions) within the borders of a 325-acre campus. Approximately 1,450 students and 37 faculty and staff members live in university-owned housing. While the Washington and Lee campus and the City of Lexington are relatively safe places, neither community is immune from incidents of crime.

Public Safety Department

Washington and Lee University Public Safety is staffed by 19 full-time and 13 part-time staff members - a Director, Associate Director, Assistant Director, Technology Manager, 2 Sergeants, 2 Investigators, 8 Officers, 3 full-time Dispatchers, 3 part-time Dispatchers, and 10 part-time Officers and Shuttle Drivers. Public Safety officers, while responsible for the enforcement of rules and regulations prescribed by the University are not empowered with arrest authority. These officers protect and serve the community 24 hours daily. Public Safety officers present an open and helping attitude that creates a trusting relationship with students and other members of the community. Public Safety personnel are always available to answer questions and deal with the problems young people encounter during their careers at Washington and Lee. The relationship with the Lexington Police Department, Rockbridge County Sheriff's Office, and Virginia State Police is excellent and the departments hold regular meetings to discuss common problems.

Members of Public Safety patrol the campus grounds 24 hours daily and provide various support services for members of the community. Escorts are provided to more distant parking areas, resident halls are patrolled with extra emphasis on major weekends, and the officers maintain a high degree of visibility. An electronic access control system was first installed in most campus residence halls in 1995-1996, and over the years has been expanded to include most campus buildings. There are currently 82 emergency phones (48 "Blue Light"/emergency phones and 34 elevator emergency phones) located at various places on campus to allow contact with Public Safety personnel at all times. In 2015, the University also implemented the LiveSafe App, which can also be used to contact Public Safety at any time. LiveSafe App is a mobile safety technology that can be used to share information and make reports to Public Safety, as well as access emergency information and lots of other useful information and resources.

Individuals are encouraged to report all criminal activity to Public Safety. Public Safety can assist students or employees in reporting criminal activity to appropriate law enforcement authorities, including the Lexington Police, Rockbridge County Sheriff's Office, or Virginia State Police. A Crime Log is maintained in the Public Safety Office and can be reviewed upon request at the Public Safety Dispatch Desk, which is staffed 24/7 every day of the year.

Public Safety will provide Campus-Wide Alerts to the University community in cases of crimes and other emergency situations that occur in or near the W&L campus, are reported to either Public Safety or local law enforcement, and are considered to represent a serious and continuing threat to students, faculty and staff members or their property. These notices will be posted at various locations on campus and will be sent by campus wide e-mail. Public Safety also meets regularly with members of the student newspaper staffs to discuss and release timely information concerning safety and security.

In accordance with the Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act, law enforcement agency information concerning registered sex offenders may be obtained from the Virginia State Police online.

Reporting Crimes

Individuals who become victims of crime are encouraged to immediately report to Public Safety at (540) 458-8999. Public Safety officers are on duty 24 hours per day, seven days per week. In addition to the 24-hour patrol coverage, the Public Safety Office, in the Heating/Cooling Plant, is staffed 24 hours daily. Any Public Safety Officer will take a report of crime. The Director of Public Safety or the Associate Director of Public Safety can also be reached for this purpose by calling (540) 458-8400. The Public Safety Department will investigate any criminal activity reported. Reports may also be made to the Lexington Police Department by calling 911 or (540) 463-9177, the Rockbridge County Sheriff's Office by calling (540) 463-7328, or the Virginia State Police by calling (804) 674-2000.

Students and employees who do not wish to contact Public Safety are encouraged to report criminal offenses to any of the following University administrators: Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students, Dean of Student Life, Dean for Diversity, Inclusion and Student Engagement, Associate Dean of Students and Dean for First-Year Experience, Assistant Dean of Sophomores, Associate Dean of Students and Dean of Juniors, Associate Dean of Students and Dean of Seniors, Director of Residence Life, Title IX Coordinator and Director of Disability Resources, Director of Student Activities, Director of Outdoor Education and Recreation, Director of Athletics, Associate Dean of Law Student Affairs, Associate Director of International Education, and Executive Director of Human Resources. Criminal offenses reported to the Public Safety Department or to one of the designated administrators will be investigated and those that fall into one of the required reporting classifications will be disclosed as a statistic in the University's annual compliance information.

If you are a victim of a crime and do not want to pursue action within the University conduct system or the criminal justice system, you may still want to consider making a confidential report. Confidential reports of crimes that will not reveal your identity may be made by using the anonymous crime reporting form. Reports filed in this manner will be counted in the annual crime statistics information, but will only be further investigated if the information provided leads Public Safety to believe that someone may be in imminent danger and where the information provided is sufficient to allow for follow up investigation.

Sexual Misconduct

This section contains information current as of the publication date of the Annual Campus Security Report. For the most current policy and procedures, see the Interim Sexual Discrimination and Misconduct Policy page.

Washington and Lee University prohibits sexual misconduct and related relationship violence offenses constituting crimes under Virginia and/or federal law, specifically including sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking, as well as sexual misconduct prohibited under Section V of the University's Interim Sexual Discrimination and Misconduct Policy. A detailed summary of sexual assault, domestic and dating violence, stalking, and related federal and Virginia laws is set out at the end of this section. For purposes of this section, "sexual misconduct" includes all such misconduct and criminal offenses outlined in the prior sentence.

Washington and Lee University encourages all individuals to seek help and immediately report incidents of sexual misconduct. Student Affairs professionals, clinicians in the Student Health and Counseling Center, and the Title IX Coordinator and Assistant Title IX Coordinator(s) are available as resources for support and to understand policies and procedures related to complaints of sexual misconduct. Designated university investigators, as well as the Sexual Assault Investigator of the Rockbridge County Sheriff's Office, are specially trained to respond to sexual misconduct complaints.

Upon a report of sexual misconduct to the University, the University will ensure that students and employees receive written notification of their rights and options, as well as resources available. The University is committed to protecting the privacy of all individuals involved in a report of sexual misconduct. No information shall be released, including the identity of any individual who has made a report, any complainant, any respondent, and any witness, except as required or permitted by law or required to carry out the provisions of the Interim Sexual Discrimination and Misconduct Policy. The University will complete publicly available record keeping, including Clery Act reporting and disclosures, without the inclusion of personally identifying information about the complainant.

SPECIFIC CONTACT INFORMATION FOR ALL THE ABOVE UNIVERSITY AND LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT RESOURCES, AS WELL AS HEALTH CARE RESOURCES, IS AVAILABLE IN THE RESOURCES GUIDE.

If you are raped or sexually assaulted, or are the victim of any other domestic/dating violence or stalking, please follow these steps (as applicable):

  1. Get to a safe place as soon as you can.
  2. Try to preserve all physical evidence. Even if you do not plan to immediately report to law enforcement or the University, you are strongly encouraged to preserve evidence to the greatest extent possible. This will preserve your options in the future. Don't wash or change clothes if you can avoid it. If you do change clothes, put all of the clothing that you were wearing at the time of the attack in a paper (not plastic) bag. More information about preserving evidence can be found on the Sexual Misconduct Resources webpage.
  3. Get medical attention as soon as possible to make sure you are physically well and to collect important evidence in the event you may wish to later take legal action.
    Note: You do not have to answer any questions from the police, or otherwise cooperate in any criminal investigation, as a condition for receiving a forensic medical exam. In addition, the cost of this exam is borne by the state.
  4. Contact someone you trust to be with you and support you.
  5. Talk with a counselor who will maintain confidentiality, help explain your options, provide information and emotional support. Counseling for victims of sexual misconduct is available through the University Counseling Services (458-8590) [students only], through Project Horizon in Lexington (24-hour crisis line is 540-463-2594) [students and employees], or through the Employee Assistance Program (800-992-1931) [employees only].
  6. Consider notifying Public Safety (540-458-8999) or local law enforcement. At your request, University Public Safety will assist you through the process and help you access the appropriate law enforcement agency. It is your choice whether to report to law enforcement or decline to report to law enforcement and whether to pursue criminal charges. Even if you decide not to pursue criminal charges, you may seek a protective order. Victims of criminal offenses involving violence, force or threat that result in bodily injury or create reasonable fear of death, sexual assault, or bodily injury may obtain a protective order prohibiting contact and other conditions necessary to prevent further such acts.

Law Enforcement Contact Information

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Confidential Resources

Reporting Resources

There are University conduct procedures available to all students and employees reporting instances of sexual misconduct, as specified and incorporated in the University's Interim Sexual Discrimination and Misconduct Policy, which are incorporated into this report. The policy and the procedures are designed to provide prompt, fair, and impartial investigation and resolution processes and will be conducted by individuals who have received training on the issues related to sexual misconduct cases (including domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking). The procedures also address supportive measures that can include, but not be limited to, changes in academic, living, and working situations and no-contact directives. Supportive measures are available upon a report if they are reasonably available, regardless of whether or not the student or employee chooses to report to local law enforcement or proceed with a formal complaint under the University's Interim Sexual Discrimination and Misconduct Policy. The University will maintain the privacy of any supportive measures provided under the Interim Sexual Discrimination and Misconduct Policy to the extent practicable.

The University's Interim Sexual Discrimination and Misconduct Policy and the sexual misconduct procedures incorporated in the policy outline the steps for conducting investigations, hearings, and notification of both the complainant and the respondent throughout the process, as well as the range of potential sanctions for sexual misconduct and timelines for resolution. The respondent and the complainant involved in alleged student sexual misconduct cases are entitled to be accompanied to disciplinary proceedings by one or two hearing advisors or a discrimination policy advisor and/or advisor of choice specified under the above-referenced procedures. The respondent and complainant involved in alleged employee sexual misconduct cases are entitled to be accompanied to disciplinary proceedings by a discrimination policy advisor and/or advisor of choice. The respondent and the complainant are also entitled to prompt notification of the outcome of these proceedings as specified in the procedures, including contemporaneous written notice of the decision, the appeal process, any change to the decision, and when the decision becomes final.

The University may impose sanctions, detailed in the linked Interim Sexual Discrimination and Misconduct Policy, ranging from a warning to dismissal from the University for individuals found in violation of the policy. Sanctions for student respondents are listed at Section XIV(B)(4) and sanctions for non-student respondents are listed at Section XV(H) of the policy.

Sexual Assault Laws and Related Laws in Virginia: 2021

The following is a paraphrase. For detailed information see the VA. Code sections cited.

NOTE: Victims of criminal offenses involving violence, force or threat that result in bodily injury or create reasonable fear of death, sexual assault, or bodily injury may obtain a protective order prohibiting contact and other conditions necessary to prevent further such acts. (19.2-152.8; 19.2-152.7:1) This includes victims of dating violence, which is not a separate offense under Virginia law.

Also, NOTE: Under Virginia law, victims of sexual assault are no longer required to cooperate with police or participate in the criminal justice system in order to be provided with forensic medical exams. (19.2-165.1)

  1. Rape (18.2-61)
    • Vaginal sexual intercourse with a person against her/his will and by force.
    • Penalty: 5 years to life imprisonment
  2. Forcible Sodomy (18.2-67.1)
    • Oral sex (cunnilingus, fellatio, anilingus) or anal intercourse by force and against the will of the victim.
    • Penalty: 5 years to life imprisonment
  3. Inanimate Object Sexual Penetration (18.2-67.2)
    • Penetration of the vagina or rectum with any object by force and against the will of the victim.
    • Penalty: 5 years to life imprisonment
  4. Aggravated Sexual Battery (18.2-67.3)
    • Sexual abuse (fondling) of the victim
      • through the victim's mental incapacity or physical helplessness OR
      • by force, threat or intimidation where either serious bodily harm or mental injury to the victim results or the assailant uses or threatens use of a weapon.
    • Penalty: 1 to 20 years imprisonment and a fine of not more than $100,000.
  5. Mental Incapacity Definition (18.2-67.10)
    • "Mental incapacity" means that condition of the complaining witness existing at the time of a criminal sexual offense under Virginia law which prevents that person from understanding the nature or consequences of the sexual act involved and about which the accused knew or should have known.
  6. Physical Helplessness Definition (18.2-67.10)
    • "Physical helplessness" means unconsciousness or any other condition existing at the time of a criminal sexual offense under Virginia law which otherwise rendered the complaining witness physically unable to communicate an unwillingness to act and about which the accused knew or should have known.
  7. Sexual Battery (18.2-67.4)
    • Sexual abuse (fondling) of the victim
      • by force, threat, intimidation or ruse, against the will of the victim OR
      • intentionally and without the victim's consent on more than one occasion within a two-year period, or of more than one victim within a two-year period.
    • Penalty: 12 months jail and/or up to $2,500 fine
  8. Attempted Rape and Other Attempted Sexual Offenses #1-5 above (18.2-67.5)
    • Penalty:
      • Attempted Rape/Forcible Sodomy/Object Sexual Penetration = 2 to 10 years imprisonment and a fine of not more than $100,000.
      • Attempted Aggravated Sexual Battery = 1 to 5 years imprisonment OR 12 months in jail and/or up to $2,500 fine.
      • Attempted Sexual Battery = same penalty as Sexual Battery.
  9. Incest (18.2-366)
    • Sexual intercourse between two people who are not permitted by law to marry.
    • Penalty: 12 months jail and/or up to $1,000 fine
  10. Indecent Liberties ("Statutory Rape") (18.2-370)
    • Sexual intercourse, anal intercourse, cunnilingus, fellatio, or anilingus with a person aged 13 or 14, with consent, when the offender is 3 years or more the senior.
    • Penalty: 1 to 5 years' imprisonment OR 12 months jail and/or up to $2,500 fine
    • (If the offender is less than 3 years the senior the charge is fornication, a misdemeanor. Any person under the age of 13 has no legal capacity to consent to sexual intercourse; therefore, if a person under the age of 13 has sexual intercourse, the offender could be charged with rape.)
  11. Infected Sexual Battery (18.2-67.4:1)
    • A person diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection gngaging in sexual behavior that poses a substantial risk of transmission to another person with the intent to transmit the infection to that person and transmission to that person.
    • Penalty: 1 to 5 years' imprisonment OR 12 months jail and/or up to $2500 fine.
    • A person infected with HIV, Syphilis, or Hepatitis B having intercourse, cunnilingus, fellatio, or anilingus with another person without disclosing that status, even without intent to transmit the disease.
    • Penalty: 12 months in jail and/or up to $2,500 fine.
  12. Stalking (18.2-60.3 and 8.01-42.3)
    • Engaging in conduct on more than one occasion directed at another person, when the offender intends to place, or knows or should know that the conduct places, the other person in reasonable fear of death, criminal sexual assault or bodily injury to self or family.
    • Penalty: 12 months jail and/or up to $2,500 fine, plus an order prohibiting contact between the offender and the victim/victim's family. Additionally, victim may bring a civil suit for damages, whether or not criminal charges are filed.
  13. Obscene Sexual Display (18.2-387.1)
    • Intentionally engaging in actual or simulated masturbation in a public place in the presence of other.
    • Penalty: 12 months jail and/or up to $2,500 fine.
  14. Harassment by Computer (18.2-152.7:1 and 18.2-152.12)
    • Use of a computer or computer network with intent to coerce, intimidate, or harass by communicating obscene, vulgar, profane, lewd, lascivious, or indecent language, or making any obscene suggestion, or threatening any illegal or immoral act.
    • Penalty: 12 months jail and/or up to $2,500 fine. Additionally, the victim may bring a civil suit for damages.
  15. Use of Profane, Threatening or Indecent Language over Telephone (18.2-427)
    • Using obscene, vulgar, profane, lewd, lascivious, or indecent language, or making any obscene suggestion, or threatening any illegal or immoral act over the telephone with the intent to coerce, intimidate, or harass another person.
    • Penalty: 12 months jail and/or up to $2,500 fine.
  16. Domestic Violence (18.2-57.2, 18.2-61 et seq., etc.)
    • "Family abuse" includes any act of violence, force, or threat resulting in bodily injury or placing one in reasonable apprehension of death, sexual assault, or bodily injury, including forceful detention, stalking, criminal sexual assault, or any other offense meeting those elements, which is committed against a member of the person's family or household member. Family or household member includes an individual's spouse, former spouse, parents, stepparents, children, stepchildren, siblings, half siblings, grandparents, grandchildren, in-laws, any individual who has a child in common with the person, and someone with whom the person has lived together and had conjugal relations in the last 12 months.
  17. Dating Violence (federal law definition per 42 U.S.C. Section 13925(a)(10))
    • "Dating violence" means violence committed by a person (A) who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim; and (B) where the existence of such a relationship shall be determined by the reporting party based on a consideration of the following factors: (i) the length of the relationship; (ii) the type of relationship; and (iii) the frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship.
  18. Consent (the following definition is from the Interim Sexual Discrimination and Misconduct Policy)
    • Individuals who choose to engage in sexual activity of any type must first obtain the consent of the other party. Consent is demonstrated through mutually understandable words and/or actions that clearly indicate a willingness to engage freely in sexual activity.
    • Additional Guidance about Consent:
      • Consent to one form of sexual activity does not, by itself, constitute consent to engage in all forms of sexual activity.
      • Consent consists of an outward demonstration indicating that an individual has freely chosen to engage in sexual activity. Consent may not be inferred from silence, passivity, lack of resistance, or lack of an active response alone. A person who does not physically resist or verbally refuse sexual activity is not necessarily giving consent.
      • A verbal "no" is a clear demonstration of the lack of consent.
      • Individuals with a previous or current intimate relationship do not automatically give either initial or continued consent to sexual activity. Even in the context of a relationship, there must be mutually understandable communication that clearly indicates a willingness to engage in sexual activity.
      • Either party may withdraw consent at any time. Withdrawal of consent should be outwardly demonstrated by words or actions that clearly indicate a desire to end sexual activity. Once withdrawal of consent has been expressed, sexual activity must cease.
      • Consent is not effective if it results from the use or threat of physical force, intimidation, or coercion, or any other factor that would eliminate an individual's ability to exercise free will to choose whether or not to have sexual contact. See "Force" and "Coercion" in the Interim Sexual Discrimination and Misconduct Policy for further discussion.
      • An individual who is physically incapacitated from alcohol or other drug consumption (voluntarily or involuntarily) or is asleep, unconscious, unaware, or otherwise physically helpless is considered unable to give consent. See "Incapacitation" in the Interim Sexual Discrimination and Misconduct Policy for further discussion.
  19. Hate Crime (8.01-42.1, 8.01-49.1, 18.2-57, 18.2-121, and 52-8.5)
    • Hate crime includes the following acts when these acts are committed because of the victim's race, religion, gender, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, or ethnic origin: (i) a criminal act committed against a person or his property with the specific intent of instilling fear or intimidation, or an act to restrain that person from exercising their Constitutional rights, (ii) any illegal act committed against a person or their property, and (iii) all other incidents, as determined by law-enforcement authorities, intended to intimidate or harass any individual or group.
    • Penalty: minimum 6 months jail. Additionally, the victim may bring a civil suit for damages.

Resources Contact Information

available at: http://go.wlu.edu/ogc/ResourcesContactInfo

Educational Programs

Members of the Student Affairs staff, including the Office of Public Safety, in cooperation with the Office of Health Promotion, coordinate student drug and alcohol prevention programs, sexual misconduct awareness/prevention and reporting/resources programs, and general crime prevention programs beginning with first-year orientation and continuing throughout each academic year. There are on-going programs that include lectures, workshops, videos and student surveys.

All new undergraduate and law students are required to complete an online Sexual Assault Prevention program, which addresses sexual assault, stalking, and relationship violence. This online program includes a statement that the University prohibits dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and sexual assault; a description of safe and positive options for bystander intervention, and information on risk reduction. All new students are also required to participate in Bystander Intervention Training, which builds students' skills in recognizing situations of potential harm and safe and positive options for intervention. There are also sessions for all new undergraduate and law students on W&L's policies, procedures and resources for sexual assault, domestic/dating violence, and stalking. All incoming undergraduate students also complete an online Alcohol Edu program, as well as a Voices of W&L theatrical presentation and discussion. Voices of W&L is performed and edited by upper-class students and addresses typical high-risk behaviors that first-year students may encounter, including situations involving drugs and alcohol, as well as sexual assault and harassment. Following the virtual performance, students participate in a one hour follow up discussion, which provides an opportunity to clarify and reemphasize the role that each student plays in creating a safe environment at the University.

There are numerous other ongoing educational programs and training efforts to prevent sexual assault, domestic/dating violence and stalking for incoming and continuing students. These programs focus on various content areas including: definitions of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, sexual harassment, stalking, sexual exploitation, and consent; addressing the root causes of sexual assault; promoting healthy relationships and sexual encounters; safe and positive options for bystander intervention; the effects of trauma; relationship between alcohol and sexual assault; and risk awareness and risk reduction. Some of these offered during the spring and fall of 2020 (2019-2020 and 2020-2021 academic years) included athletic team "looking out for your teammates" bystander booster; articles in Student Health 101 (online resource); new member education training for all new Greek members; and training for student leaders (residence life staff, peer counselors, and Kirgis Fellows).

There are a variety of educational programs and training efforts for new and existing employees to prevent sexual assault, domestic/dating violence and stalking, and to communicate the University's expectations and resources for reporting of such offenses. All new employees are oriented in person (virtually) on University sexual misconduct policies, procedures, and resources. Additinally, all new employees are required to complete an online United Educators program on workplace harassment. There are also sessions for all responsible employees (those required to report sexual misconduct), and all University faculty, staff, and students who handle complaints of sexual misconduct.

There are educational resources online on the University website designed to promote positive and healthy behaviors and relationships and to educate the campus community on reporting and resources for sexual assault, domestic/dating violence, and stalking (some of these can be found on the Sexual Misconduct Resources site).

Responsibilities of the University Community

Members of the University community must assume responsibility for their own personal safety and the security of their personal property. The following precautions should be used for guidance. Note: the only person responsible for any abuse or harassment is the perpetrator.

  1. Report all suspicious activity to Public Safety immediately.
  2. Install LiveSafe on your cell phone. Make sure your cell phone is with you and charged.
  3. Never take personal safety for granted.
  4. Avoid walking alone at night. Contact Public Safety for an escort.
  5. Be aware of your surroundings.
  6. Limit your alcohol consumption, and leave social functions that get too loud, too crowded, or that have too many people drinking excessively. Call Public Safety at the first sign of trouble.
  7. Don't leave your drink unattended and avoid taking a drink when you did not watch it be made and poured. At parties, don't drink from the punch bowl or other large, common open containers.
  8. Be careful about posting your location on social media.
  9. Carry only small amounts of cash.
  10. Never leave valuables (wallets, purses, books, computers, etc.) unattended.
  11. Carry your keys with you at all times and don't lend them to anyone.
  12. When you go to a social gathering, go with people you trust and have a plan. Agree to watch out for each other and plan to leave together.
  13. Lock up your bicycles. Lock your car doors and close the windows when leaving your car.
  14. Always lock the door to your residence hall room whether you are there or not. Be certain that your door is locked when you go to sleep and keep the windows locked when you are not at home.
  15. Never leave valuables in your vehicle, especially if they are easily noticeable.
  16. Inventory your personal property and make records of the serial numbers of all items of value.

Crime Statistics

The Campus Security Act requires that institutions collect and report statistics for certain offenses. In addition to collecting information from Public Safety officers and from those administrators specifically designated as alternatives to receive reports of crimes (identified above in the section on "Reporting Crimes,") the Act requires that all other "campus security authorities" report to Public Safety statistical information only (not including any personally identifiable information) on any of those offenses reported to them. "Campus security authorities" are individuals who have significant responsibility for student and campus activities, including but not limited to student housing, student discipline, and campus judicial proceedings. For purposes of collecting statistical information, Public Safety considers that campus security authorities at Washington and Lee include, but are not limited to, the following positions (in addition to Public Safety officers, and those individuals designated under the heading "Reporting Crimes" in this document):

The statistical data gathered for Washington and Lee University includes reported violations for the period January 1-December 31 for 2017, 2018, and 2019. Washington and Lee maintain statistics using the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting System as a guideline. Public Safety also maintains a daily crime log as required by the Clery Act.

Clery Stats

2020: January 1 - December 31

CrimeOn-Campus (including residential)On-Campus ResidentialNon-CampusPublic PropertyTotals
Murder/Non-negligent Manslaughter 0 0 0 0 0
Negligent Manslaughter 0 0 0 0 0
Forcible Sex Offenses 2 2 0 0 2
Non-forcible Sex Offenses 0 0 0 0 0
Robbery 0 0 0 0 0
Aggravated Assault 0 0 0 0 0
Domestic Violence 0 0 0 0 0
Dating Violence 0 0 0 0 0
Stalking 2 2 0 0 2
Burglary 2 0 0 0 2
Motor Vehicle Theft 0 0 0 0 0
Arson 0 0 0 0 0
Weapons Possession,
Arrests		 0 0 0 0 0
Drug Law Violations,
Arrests		 0 0 0 0 0
Liquor Law Violations,
Arrests		 0 0 0 2 2
Weapons Possession,
Disciplinary Referrals		 0 0 0 0 0
Drug Law Violations,
Disciplinary Referrals		 23 23 0 0 23
Liquor Law Violations,
Disciplinary Referrals		 166 147 0 0 166
Hate Crimes 1* 0 0 1* 2*

*One vandalism incident characterized by racial bias in an on-campus non-residential location; One intimidation incident characterized by racial bias in a public property location.

2019: January 1 - December 31

CrimeOn-Campus (including residential)On-Campus ResidentialNon-CampusPublic PropertyTotals
Murder/Non-negligent Manslaughter 0 0 0 0 0
Negligent Manslaughter 0 0 0 0 0
Forcible Sex Offenses 7 7 0 0 7
Non-forcible Sex Offenses 0 0 0 0 0
Robbery 0 0 0 0 0
Aggravated Assault 0 0 0 0 0
Domestic Violence 0 0 0 0 0
Dating Violence 1 1 0 0 1
Stalking 6 3 0 0 6
Burglary 4 2 0 0 4
Motor Vehicle Theft 0 0 0 0 0
Arson 0 0 0 0 0
Weapons Possession,
Arrests		 0 0 0 1 1
Drug Law Violations,
Arrests		 1 0 0 2 3
Liquor Law Violations,
Arrests		 1 1 0 3 4
Weapons Possession,
Disciplinary Referrals		 0 0 0 0 0
Drug Law Violations,
Disciplinary Referrals		 38 38 0 0 38
Liquor Law Violations,
Disciplinary Referrals		 116 106 0 8 124
Hate Crimes 1* 0 0 0 1*

*The one hate crime incident was characterized by racial bias in an on-campus non-residential location.

2018: January 1 - December 31

CrimeOn-Campus (including residential)On-Campus ResidentialNon-CampusPublic PropertyTotals
Murder/Non-negligent Manslaughter 0 0 0 0 0
Negligent Manslaughter 0 0 0 0 0
Forcible Sex Offenses 12** 12** 0 0 12**
Non-forcible Sex Offenses 0 0 0 0 0
Robbery 0 0 0 0 0
Aggravated Assault 0 0 0 0 0
Domestic Violence 0 0 0 0 0
Dating Violence 2 1 0 0 2
Stalking 4 2 0 0 4
Burglary 2 0 0 0 2
Motor Vehicle Theft 0 0 0 0 0
Arson 0 0 0 0 0
Weapons Possession,
Arrests		 1 0 0 0 1
Drug Law Violations,
Arrests		 2 1 0 2 4
Liquor Law Violations,
Arrests		 0 0 0 19 19
Weapons Possession,
Disciplinary Referrals		 0 0 0 0 0
Drug Law Violations,
Disciplinary Referrals		 44 39 0 0 44
Liquor Law Violations,
Disciplinary Referrals		 65 25 0 0 65
Hate Crimes 2* 0 0 0 2*

*One hate crime was a vandalism incident characterized by racial bias in an on-campus non-residential area. One hate crime was an intimidation incident characterized by racial bias in an on-campus non-residential location.

**In 2019, received report of one Forcible Sex Offense that occurred in 2018. Amended previously reported number of 11 incidents.

Missing Student Notification Policy

available at: http://www.wlu.edu/general-counsel/code-of-policies/alcohol-drugs-safety/missing-student-notification

Emergency Management Policy Statement

The following statement is a summary of Washington and Lee University's Emergency Response and Evacuation Procedures.

Washington and Lee University has in place systems and procedures to help the University respond to significant emergency situations promptly and effectively. During an emergency, the President of the University (or in his absence, by designation specifically for purposes of the Emergency Management Plan, designated senior administrators) has ultimate emergency responsibility and authority for activating the Emergency Management Plan, as necessary, and designating an Incident Commander to oversee the management of all emergency activities, including development, implementation, and review of strategic decisions and post-event review. The President (or surrogate/designee) is assisted and advised by the Emergency Management Executive Team (EMET)1. The EMET provides executive leadership, advice, and counsel to the President or his surrogate/designee on high level emergency management and recovery decisions for the University. Depending on the nature and scope of a particular emergency situation, some or all of the members of the EMET may be involved in tactical management of the response and recovery under the leadership of the designated Incident Commander, and may be designated as the Emergency Operations Group (EOG) for that emergency situation.

Upon notification of a situation involving a significant emergency, the Department of Public Safety will consult one or more senior staff members of the EMET, who will then review the situation, consult with the President (or surrogate/designee) and other internal and external sources, as appropriate to the nature of the situation and the potential for threat to health, safety or property. In accordance with the Emergency Management Plan, an Incident Commander will be designated, or other appropriate measures will be taken to address the situation.

Upon confirmation of a significant emergency or dangerous situation involving an immediate or impending threat to the health or safety of students or employees occurring on the campus, or in any other situation deemed appropriate by the President (or surrogate/designee), the President (or surrogate/designee, including the Incident Commander) will, without delay, and taking into account the safety of the community, work to determine the content of an emergency notification and will instruct the Chief Communications Officer to provide notice of the emergency using the Emergency Communications Systems, unless issuing the notification would compromise efforts to respond to the emergency. In certain emergency situations, when time does not permit consultation, the Chief Communications Officer, upon notice from the Director of Public Safety, or the Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students, may independently determine to issue a campus alert using one or more of the communications systems listed below:

In significant emergencies, the Incident Commander, overseeing the Emergency Operations Group (EOG), will lead a coordinated response effort, with members of the EOG charged with particular duties and leadership roles based on their areas of expertise. The Incident Commander and EOG will communicate and coordinate with community partners and emergency response officials as necessary and appropriate to the particular emergency situation. The Chief Communications Officer or designee will be the principal media contact and University spokesperson with external audiences.

The Executive Director of University Facilities is in charge of conducting damage assessments and conveying that information to the Incident Commander. The Executive Director, working with the Engineer, has temporary emergency authority to evacuate or close an emergency site they deem an immediate threat to life or safety, subject to review by the Incident Commander. If it is necessary to evacuate a building, section of campus, or the entire campus, because of extensive failure of any critical system or other danger present on campus, the Incident Commander, in consultation with the EOG and the President (or surrogate/designee), may order an evacuation. In that case the Chief Communications Officer or designee will notify the campus community through the Emergency Communications Systems options listed above. A summary of evacuation procedures is provided below.

The President (or surrogate/designee), in consultation with the Incident Commander and EOG, has the sole authority to declare an end to any state of emergency. Follow-up information will be sent to the campus community via the Emergency Communications Systems options listed above.

The EMET, or a subgroup of that team, as directed by the President, will be responsible for regular review of the Emergency Management Plan and for structuring and executing training and tests of the emergency management procedures on an annual basis to affirm their efficacy. These tests may be announced or unannounced, and will include documentation by the Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students of a description of the test, the date and time of the test, and whether the test was announced or unannounced. In conjunction with the annual test, the University will publicize the Emergency Management Plan. These tests will be coordinated with city and county officials, as appropriate.

Summary of Evacuation Procedures

All members of the University community should become familiar with these recommended evacuation procedures. This includes learning where exits are located in classroom, work, and residential buildings, knowing the location of the assembly area designated for your location, and knowing the off-campus transportation pick up site. Full evacuation procedures, additional information regarding assisting individuals with disabilities, and a complete listing of designated assembly areas, are detailed in Appendix B of the Emergency Management Plan.

An evacuation may be necessary when conditions are such that it is no longer safe for individuals to remain inside of a single building or area, within a section of campus, or anywhere on campus, whether due to extensive failure of critical systems or other danger(s). You may be notified of the need to evacuate by the sounding of a fire alarm in the building, a directive from Public Safety or University Facilities personnel, or by an evacuation order communicated through the Emergency Communications Systems. However, if you are in a campus building and, despite not having received any order to evacuate, you believe it is not safe for individuals to remain inside the building (due to a fire or hazardous materials leak, for example), pull the nearest fire alarm to alert all those in the building to evacuate, and follow the evacuation procedures below.

1. Building or Area Evacuation

If a fire alarm sounds or you receive an order to evacuate from Public Safety or University Facilities personnel or through the Emergency Communications Systems, follow these procedures:

Accounting for Individuals following Building/Area Evacuation

2. Campus Evacuation

In case of a campus-wide disaster, such as a major earthquake, large hazardous materials release, or widespread fire, certain sections of campus, or the entire campus, may need to be evacuated, whether because of extensive failure of critical systems or other dangers on campus. In such cases, the Incident Commander, in consultation with the EOG and the President (or surrogate/designee), Public Safety, and others, depending on the situation), may order an evacuation and, with the coordination of any appropriate external agencies, will determine the scope and method of implementing such an evacuation, as warranted by the situation.

Public Safety and the Emergency Communications Systems will alert the campus community on specific evacuation details. However, if an order is given to evacuate the campus or a section of campus, follow these general procedures:

Accounting for Individuals During or Following Campus Evacuation

3. Evacuation of Individuals with Disabilities

If you have a disability and are unable to evacuate a building or area on your own, stay calm and take steps to protect yourself, as appropriate. Call 911 or Public Safety at extension 8999, or 540.458.8999 from off-campus, and tell the responder where you are or where you will be and if you have a service animal or other assistive devices or equipment. If you must move:

It is suggested that individuals with disabilities prepare for emergencies by learning the locations of exit corridors and enclosed stairwells and by informing co-workers, professors, and/or classmates of the best methods of assistance during an emergency. For assistance with preplanning for an emergency, contact the Title IX Coordinator and Director of Disability Resources (undergraduate students), the Assistant Dean for Law Student Affairs (law students), or your supervisor or department head (employees). A few non-exclusive examples of preplanning measures include:

Further information on Campus Evacuation is provided in Appendix B of the University's Emergency Management Plan.

Fire Safety Report

Fire Safety Report 2020

Residential FacilityTotal FiresFire NumberCause of FireInjuries Requiring a Medical FacilityDeathsProperty Damage
Davis Dorm, Washington St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Gaines Dorm, Nelson St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Graham Lees Dorm, Washington St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Woods Creek East Apt., East Denny Cir. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Woods Creek Central Apt., East Denny Cir. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Woods Creek West Apt., East Denny Cir. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Alpha Delta Pi Sorority, 12 Frank Parsons Way 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Chi Omega Sorority, 2 Frank Parsons Way 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority, 4 Frank Parsons Way 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Delta Society, 8 Frank Parsons Way 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority, 10 Frank Parsons Way 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Pi Beta Phi Sorority, 6 Frank Parsons Way 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
E-Sports, 101 N. Jefferson 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Chi Psi Fraternity, 5 Lee Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Kappa Alpha Fraternity, 300 E. Nelson 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Kappa Sigma Fraternity, 220 E. Nelson 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity, 225 E. Nelson 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Phi Delta Theta Fraternity, 5 Henry St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity, 112 Preston St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity, 301 E. Washington St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Sankofa House, 11 N. Jefferson St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity, 106 N. Main St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, 201 E. Washington St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
ARC House, 205 East Washington St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Sigma Chi Fraternity, 216 E. Nelson 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Sigma Nu Fraternity, 4 Henry St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Sustainability House, 218 E. Nelson 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Global Service House, 105 S. Lee Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Outing Club Housing, 203 E. Washington St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Spanish Club Housing, 4/5 S. Lee Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Chavis House, 10 Lee Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
17 University Place, 210 N. Main St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
19 University Place, 212 N. Main St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Civic Building A, 312 Augusta Square 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Civic Building B, 314 Augusta Square 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Apartment C, 302 Augusta Square 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Apartment D, 304 Augusta Square 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Apartment E, 209 Larry Stuart Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Apartment F, 207 Larry Stuart Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Apartment G, 205 Larry Stuart Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Apartment H, 201 Larry Stuart Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Apartment I, 101 Lewis John Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse J, 103 Lewis John Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse K, 105 Lewis John Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse L, 107 Lewis John Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse M, 109 Lewis John Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse N, 111 Lewis John Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse O, 306 Augusta Square 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse P, 308 Augusta Square 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse Q, 310 Augusta Square 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A

Total Number of Fires: 0
Total Number of Persons With Fire-Related Injuries: 0
Total Number of Fire-Related Deaths: 0
Total Value of Property Damage Cause by Fire: $0.00

NOTE: Public Safety employees make a report on all responses to fire alarms and any other reports of fires. They then provide a copy of the reports to the Director of Environmental Health and Safety who then completes any investigations necessary and completes the fire report log.

Fire Safety Report 2019

Residential FacilityTotal FiresFire NumberCause of FireInjuries Requiring a Medical FacilityDeathsProperty Damage
Davis Dorm, Washington St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Gaines Dorm, Nelson St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Graham Lees Dorm, Washington St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Woods Creek East Apt., East Denny Cir. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Woods Creek Central Apt., East Denny Cir. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Woods Creek West Apt., East Denny Cir. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Alpha Delta Pi Sorority, 12 Frank Parsons Way 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Chi Omega Sorority, 2 Frank Parsons Way 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority, 4 Frank Parsons Way 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Delta Society, 8 Frank Parsons Way 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority, 10 Frank Parsons Way 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Pi Beta Phi Sorority, 6 Frank Parsons Way 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
E-Sports, 101 N. Jefferson 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Chi Psi Fraternity, 5 Lee Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Kappa Alpha Fraternity, 300 E. Nelson 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Kappa Sigma Fraternity, 220 E. Nelson 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity, 225 E. Nelson 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Phi Delta Theta Fraternity, 5 Henry St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity, 112 Preston St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity, 301 E. Washington St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Sankofa House, 11 N. Jefferson St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity, 106 N. Main St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, 201 E. Washington St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
ARC House, 205 East Washington St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Sigma Chi Fraternity, 216 E. Nelson 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Sigma Nu Fraternity, 4 Henry St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Sustainability House, 218 E. Nelson 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Global Service House, 105 S. Lee Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Outing Club Housing, 203 E. Washington St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Spanish Club Housing, 4/5 S. Lee Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Chavis House, 10 Lee Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
17 University Place, 210 N. Main St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
19 University Place, 212 N. Main St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Civic Building A, 312 Augusta Square 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Civic Building B, 314 Augusta Square 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Apartment C, 302 Augusta Square 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Apartment D, 304 Augusta Square 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Apartment E, 209 Larry Stuart Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Apartment F, 207 Larry Stuart Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Apartment G, 205 Larry Stuart Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Apartment H, 201 Larry Stuart Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Apartment I, 101 Lewis John Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse J, 103 Lewis John Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse K, 105 Lewis John Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse L, 107 Lewis John Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse M, 109 Lewis John Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse N, 111 Lewis John Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse O, 306 Augusta Square 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse P, 308 Augusta Square 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse Q, 310 Augusta Square 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A

Total Number of Fires: 0
Total Number of Persons With Fire-Related Injuries: 0
Total Number of Fire-Related Deaths: 0
Total Value of Property Damage Cause by Fire: $0.00

NOTE: Public Safety employees make a report on all responses to fire alarms and any other reports of fires. They then provide a copy of the reports to the Director of Environmental Health and Safety who then completes any investigations necessary and completes the fire report log.

Fire Safety Report 2018

Residential FacilityTotal FiresFire NumberCause of FireInjuries Requiring a Medical FacilityDeathsProperty Damage
Davis Dorm, Washington St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Gaines Dorm, Nelson St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Graham Lees Dorm, Washington St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Woods Creek East Apt., East Denny Cir. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Woods Creek Central Apt., East Denny Cir. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Woods Creek West Apt., East Denny Cir. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Alpha Delta Pi Sorority, 12 Frank Parsons Way 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Chi Omega Sorority, 2 Frank Parsons Way 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority, 4 Frank Parsons Way 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Kappa Delta Sorority, 8 Frank Parsons Way 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority, 10 Frank Parsons Way 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Pi Beta Phi Sorority, 6 Frank Parsons Way 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
E-Sports, 101 N. Jefferson 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Chi Psi Fraternity, 5 Lee Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Kappa Alpha Fraternity, 300 E. Nelson 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Kappa Sigma Fraternity, 220 E. Nelson 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity, 225 E. Nelson 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Phi Delta Theta Fraternity, 5 Henry St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity, 112 Preston St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity, 301 E. Washington St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Culinary House, 11 N. Jefferson St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity, 106 N. Main St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, 201 E. Washington St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
ARC House, 203 West Washington St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Sigma Chi Fraternity, 216 E. Nelson 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Sigma Nu Fraternity, 4 Henry St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Sustainability House, 218 E. Nelson 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Global Service House, 105 S. Lee Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Outing Club Housing, 203 E. Washington St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Spanish Club Housing, 4/5 S. Lee Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Chavis House, 10 Lee Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
19 University Place, 212 N. Main St. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Civic Building A, 312 Augusta Square 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Civic Building B, 314 Augusta Square 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Apartment C, 302 Augusta Square 1 1 Apt. C2 resident was cooking a sandwich wrapped in aluminum foil inside a cardboard container causing the container to catch fire. The fire was contained to the microwave and extinguished itself. 0 0 $0.00
Apartment D, 304 Augusta Square 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Apartment E, 209 Larry Stuart Ave. 1 1 Apt. E1 residents were cooking chicken in oil when the oil ignited. The pan was covered extinguishing the flames. 0 0 $0.00
Apartment F, 207 Larry Stuart Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Apartment G, 205 Larry Stuart Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Apartment H, 201 Larry Stuart Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Apartment I, 101 Lewis John Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse J, 103 Lewis John Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse K, 105 Lewis John Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse L, 107 Lewis John Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse M, 109 Lewis John Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse N, 111 Lewis John Ave. 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse O, 306 Augusta Square 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse P, 308 Augusta Square 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Townhouse Q, 310 Augusta Square 0 0 N/A N/A N/A N/A

Total Number of Fires: 2
Total Number of Persons With Fire-Related Injuries: 0
Total Number of Fire-Related Deaths: 0
Total Value of Property Damage Cause by Fire: $0.00

NOTE: Public Safety employees make a report on all responses to fire alarms and any other reports of fires. They then provide a copy of the reports to the Director of Environmental Health and Safety who then completes any investigations necessary and completes the fire report log.

Policies or Rules on Health, Fire, and Life Safety Systems, Portable Electrical Appliances, Smoking, and Open Flames in Student Housing Facilities

Students are required to read and comply with the information in the "Student Handbook," the "RESIDENCE HALL FIRE SAFETY & PREVENTION" brochure, and listed in the "Housing Contract."

The following residence life regulations have been enacted in the best interest of students residing on campus. Resident Advisors, Community Assistants, and Public Safety officers are primarily responsible for enforcing these regulations.

  1. The members of each residential section will reach a consensus on the standards of social responsibility by which they will abide during the academic year. The statement of social responsibility includes standards of responsible conduct which reflect a sense of appropriateness and decorum, and a concern for the rights and sensibilities of others, be they residents, guests or visitors. Statements of social responsibility MUST include a provision for quiet hours daily from 11 p.m. to 8 a.m.
  2. The University provides a card-access exterior security system in the first-year residence halls, Woods Creek Apartments, Village apartments and townhouses, and many of the fraternity, sorority, and theme houses, in addition to key entry doors for individual rooms. Students should never prop open exterior doors or manipulate locking mechanisms in any way ($100 fine). Students are expected to lock the doors to their rooms and assume individual responsibility for their personal property and general safety and security.
  3. Students must respect the rights of their roommates, housemates and neighbors.
  4. The following regulations pertaining to University property and to the health and safety of residents are outside the scope of statements of social responsibility and remain effective throughout the academic year for all residence halls, including Woods Creek, the Village, Greek houses and theme houses:
    1. All Washington and Lee housing facilities are smoke-free. This includes, but is not limited to: cigarettes, cigars, e-cigarettes such as Juul, vapors, oils, hookahs or any other smoking devices. Smoking is not permitted in any areas of the residence halls or houses, including student rooms, hallways, balconies, porches, stairwells and breezeways. Smoking is not permitted within 25 feet of any building containing residential units.
    2. Health, Fire and life safety systems
      1. These systems are designed to protect people and property. These items are of critical importance and are maintained and monitored by the University. Tampering with or disabling such equipment puts lives at risk.
      2. Any student who deliberately activates the fire alarm system, for reasons other than that of fire prevention, will receive an automatic fine of $500 and will be referred to the Student Judicial Council (SJC). Defacing, destroying or inappropriate use of life safety equipment is considered a violation of University policy and depending upon the violation, could be considered a felony offense in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Examples include tampering with pull alarms, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, sprinkler heads, exit signs and emergency lights.
      3. Types of Violations and Associated Fines:
        1. Smoke Detectors - disabling or removal, putting the device in a bag, or placing tape or other material over the smoke sensor is prohibited. Fine - $250
        2. Sprinklers - covering the device with anything or hanging items form sprinkler heads and sprinkler piping is prohibited. Fine - $250
        3. Fire Extinguishers - Discharging a fire extinguisher as a prank or removing a fire extinguisher from its location. Fine - $250
        4. Failure to vacate a building during a fire alarm - $250
        5. Vandalism to fire extinguisher cabinet. Fine - $100
        6. Exit Signs - Vandalism, taking or possessing a University exit sign. Fine - $500
        7. Fire Rated Doors - Disabling door from closing or latching properly.  Fine - $250
        8. Smoking in University housing, including apartments, townhouses, residence halls, fraternity, sorority, or theme houses. Fine - $250
        9. Smoking on porches or balconies of residence halls, fraternity, sorority, or theme houses. Fine - $250
        10. Candles (used or unused) or Other Open Flames are prohibited.
          1. First Offense - warning and items confiscated
          2. Subsequent Offenses - fine of $100, items confiscated, and/or conduct referral as appropriate
        11. Use of Extension Cords
          1. First Offense - warning and items confiscated
          2. Subsequent Offenses - fine of $100, items confiscated, and/or conduct referral as appropriate
        12. Use of Decorations or other materials that are not fire retardant. Examples include: sawdust, bales of hay or straw, loose hay or straw, bamboo, Styrofoam peanuts, plastic materials and cloth material. Fine - $250. Questionable items should be brought to the attention of the Director of Environmental Health and Safety.
        13. Roofs - Being on the roof of any residential building, including residence halls, apartments, townhouses, fraternity, sorority, and theme houses is strictly prohibited. Fine - $250
        14. Ledges/Windows - Sitting on ledges or dangling out of windows is strictly prohibited.  Fine - $250
        15. Means of egress - At NO time shall a means of egress (entrance/exit, hallway or stairwell) be blocked/narrowed with furniture, trash, or any personal items. Fine - $100
        16. Wall coverings of flammable or combustible material cannot exceed 50% of wall space. Fine - $100
        17. Trash in hallway, breezeway or in stairwell MUST be removed in a timely manner to not become excessive and block egress. Fine - $100
        18. Storage of Flammable Liquids (gasoline, lighter fluid), propane cylinders or charcoal inside of an apartment or on a wooden porch or balcony is strictly prohibited. Fine - $250
        19. Flammable or combustible materials used as decorations on fire-rated bedroom doors cannot exceed 25% of door facing. Fine - $100
        20. All incidents of this nature will be thoroughly investigated. The University has a zero-tolerance policy pertaining to tampering with fire and life safety equipment. Repeat offenders will be fined double for a second violation.
    3. Any damage to facilities (caused by nailing or sticking up posters, breaking windows, damaging furniture, etc.) is charged to the person who damages the property. Charges for damage done to common areas will be apportioned equally among residents of the particular hall, apartment, or house involved in cases in which a responsible party is not known.
    4. University furniture may not be removed from University housing at any time, including placement on patios or balconies.
    5. Bunked and lofted beds should never be placed next to windows.
    6. Window screens may not be removed from windows. All window air conditioners must be registered with the Office of Residence Life and installed by University Facilities personnel. Throwing any object, solid or liquid, out of a residence hall window or off any balcony or landing is strictly prohibited. Food, plants, or other items are not permitted on outside windowsills, landings, or ledges.
    7. Clothing, posters, banners, flags, or any other form of messages, may not be displayed from windows or placed on columns, bannisters, balconies, or railings on the exterior of a building or residential unit.
    8. Students are prohibited from climbing onto outside ledges, accessing roofs, and leaning out balconies and windows.
    9. Objects are not to be hung from any pipes, pipe chases, and sprinkler heads.
    10. Students must be present when holiday lights are on. Only non-flammable or fire retardant decorations may be used. Curtains, clothing, paper, and other flammables must be kept away from all wires. Banners and sheets must not be placed over any lights or hung from ceilings.  Decorations may not be hung from ceilings.
    11. Live Christmas trees must be installed and cared for in accordance with University guidelines.  Contact Residence Life staff for a copy of the Guidelines.
    12. No luggage, storage containers, or similar personal items (including athletic gear) are allowed in hallways, attics, balconies, patios, breezeways or commons areas. Limited storage for these items may be available in the indoor bicycle storage room in Gaines, the basement of Woods Creek and certain theme houses.
    13. In-room refrigerators and microwaves must fit W&L's size and energy-use specifications - see letter N. There is a limit of one microwave per Woods Creek apartment kitchen. Electrical appliances such as radios, stereos, televisions, computers, hair dryers, etc. may be used within the electrical usage guidelines stated in these regulations.
    14. Use of electric outlets is subject to reasonable standards of safety. Consequently, items such as electric heaters, ceiling fans, refrigerators of more than 2.5 cubic feet capacity, air conditioners, and cooking appliances are strictly prohibited. Maximum wattage for double outlets is 1500 watts.
    15. Only UL approved multi-plug adaptors (power strips) with circuit breakers that are UL 1363 are allowed. Up to three items may be plugged into a multi-plug adaptor. Maximum wattage for a multi-plug adaptor is 1500 watts. Do not confuse a surge protector with a circuit breaker.
    16. The following are also strictly prohibited:
      1. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited in all first-year residence halls. In the upper-division residences, students who are 21 years of age or older may use and possess alcoholic beverages in accordance with the Commonwealth of Virginia laws within their assigned room.
      2. Any illegal drug paraphernalia, including but not limited to smoking devices and water pipes.
      3. Any type of weapon, including but not limited to firearms, components of firearms, explosives, live ammunition, blowguns, BB guns, air guns, stun weapons, machetes and knives (except pocket knives having a folding metal blade of less than three inches).
      4. Possession or use of fireworks or explosives of any kind in or near University housing.
      5. Water bombs, water fights, or water beds.
      6. Pets, except fish (5-gallon tank maximum) and emotional assistance animals approved by the Title IX Coordinator and Director of Disability Resources in advance pursuant to University policy and protocol as a reasonable accommodation for a qualifying disability. Service animals will be allowed in accordance with the University's Policy on Use of Service Animals on Campus.
      7. The use of hard balls (lacrosse balls, baseballs, etc.) in University housing and in the Washington Street Park, Graham-Lees, and Gaines quads.
      8. Hall sports and horseplay in University housing.
      9. Loft beds (except those assembled and approved by W&L Facilities staff).
      10. Incense, candles, halogen lights or lamps, or any open flame or other incendiary agent.
      11. Use of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) in or near University housing or on University property.
      12. Use or storage of any flammable liquids and solvents (gasoline, kerosene, propane, etc.) in or near student rooms or living areas.
      13. Use or storage of self-balancing two-wheel motorized boards, self-propelled electric scooters, and similar devices, also known as Hover boards, Swagways, IO Hawks, Skywalkers, etc.
      14. Extension cords and multi-prong adapters except power strips with a circuit breaker that are UL 1363.
      15. Use or storage of digital/3D printers in student rooms or elsewhere in campus housing living areas.
      16. Hot tubs, inflatable or otherwise, indoors or outdoors.
  5. Violation of the statements of social responsibility or any of the above regulations may result in temporary or permanent removal from housing and discipline consistent with applicable University policies. Vandalism and deliberate destruction of University property are included.
  6. If a student violates the University Policy on Illegal Drugs/Controlled Substances in University housing and is a resident of University housing, the Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students or designee may remove the student from housing without refund. If the student resides in a University fraternity or sorority and violates the University Policy on Illegal Drugs/Controlled Substances in a fraternity or sorority house, the House Corporation, in accordance with the Standards for Fraternities/Sororities, may remove the student from the house without refund.
  7. The terms and conditions of each student's Housing Agreement with the University are incorporated by reference within these Residence Hall regulations.

Procedures for Student Housing Evacuation in the Case of a Fire

When the alarms sound, immediate evacuation is mandatory and reentry to a building is prohibited until Campus Public Safety has given proper clearance approval. Residents who have physical or other concerns are requested to notify Residential Life staff so that additional assistance during emergencies can be arranged if necessary.

In the event of a fire, the University expects that all campus community members will immediately evacuate by the nearest exit, closing doors and activating the fire alarm system (if one is present) as they leave. Once safely outside a building, it is appropriate to contact 911 and the Public Safety Office. Students and/or staff are informed where to assemble in order to do a head count and make sure everyone is out or the location of anyone that might be left in the building.

RA's and CA's are trained to do a quick check of their areas of the building to make sure everyone has exited except when there is smoke or fire that is putting them in jeopardy and then they are to exit immediately.

Employees and Students who have been properly trained by the University Director of Environmental Health and Safety to operate a fire extinguisher may attempt to extinguish an incipient stage fire if they have the proper extinguisher and feel safe in doing so. No other students or employees are to attempt to use a fire extinguisher but are to exit immediately. At no time should the closing of doors or the activation of the alarm delay the exit from the building.

Fire Safety Education and Training Programs Provided to Students and Employees

Fire safety education programs are taught to all RA's and CA's, Facility Management personnel, Athletic Department Grounds and Custodial personnel, Public Safety Officers, Scene Shop Students, and offered on a voluntary basis for the entire campus community. These programs are designed to: familiarize everyone with the fire safety system in each housing facility, train everyone on the procedures to be followed in case there is a fire and distribute information on the college's fire safety policies. During these programs, trainers emphasize that participating in fire drills is mandatory. They are also advised that in the event persons do not exit during a fire drill that they will be fined $250.

Fire safety education and training programs are taught by the Director of Environmental Health and Safety, who is experienced in fire safety matters.

If a fire occurs, students are instructed to leave hazardous areas per the evacuation routes and get to a predetermined location before calling 911 for help. They are to remain in that location so that those in charge of the building or someone from the Public Safety Office has documented that all the students have left the building. RA's and CA's are instructed to pull the fire alarm as they are leaving the building if the fire alarm is not already activated and they can do so without risking their safety.

Fire Drills

The University conducts four (4) unannounced fire drills per year in each student housing facility. One of these fire drills is within the first 10 days of classes and one is conducted after sunset and before sunrise. It is then assessed if any problems were noted, such as residents not being able to hear the alarm, exit problems, exit lighting, etc. Any deficiencies are addressed. The fire drills are conducted by the Director of Environmental Health and Safety, the Fire Prevention Specialist, and Public Safety Officers.

It is mandatory that everyone exits during a fire drill (or an actual fire). Those occupants failing to exit during the drill will be fined $250.

List of the Titles of Each Person or Organization to Whom Students and Employees Should Report That a Fire Occurred

Per federal law, Washington and Lee University is required to annually disclose statistical data on all fires that occur in on-campus student housing facilities. Listed below are the non-emergency numbers to call to report fires that have already been extinguished in on-campus student housing. These are fires for which you are unsure whether the Public Safety Office may already be aware. If you find evidence of such a fire or if you hear about such a fire, please contact the following:

When calling, please provide as much information as possible about the location, date, time and cause of the fire.

Plans for Future Improvements in Fire Safety, if Determined Necessary by the University

The University plans to continue to upgrade older fire alarm systems on a regular basis. During the Summer of 2020, replacement/upgrades were made to older fire alarm systems which included Woods Creek Central, Chi Omega, Pi Beta Phi, and Sankofa; nitrogen generator was installed in Alpha Delta Pi to protect from corrosion on sprinkler dry system; and replacement of old/updated dry valve and trim package on dry sprinkler system was done in Watson Pavilion. The University continues to include the monitoring of alarm systems by an outside agency anytime new systems come online. All Fire Alarm System monitoring for residential housing as well as most other buildings is provided by Emergency 24 Monitoring, which then contacts the Fire Department as well as Washington & Lee University's Public Safety Office.

1The EMET consists of: President; Provost; Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students; Vice President for Finance and Treasurer; General Counsel; Associate Dean for Administration and Law Student Affairs; Director of Public Safety; Chief Communications Officer; Executive Director of University Facilities; Chief Technology Officer; Director of Student Health and Counseling Services/University Physician; Director of Environmental Health and Safety; Executive Director of Human Resources.