Annual Security Report

The Clery Act

The Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act) is a federal consumer protection law enforced by the Clery Compliance Team within the Department of Education’s Financial Aid Division. This law was formed because of Jeanne Clery, a first-year student at Lehigh University, in April 1986 when she was raped and murdered in her dorm room. Her parents, Howard and Connie Clery worked tirelessly at the local, state, and national levels to create legislation that became what we know today as the Clery Act.

The Clery Act provides guidelines and expectations for campuses to report crimes, provide prevention education, and outline campus safety policies and procedures. This requirement creates transparency between institutions of higher education, students, and employees. Institutions of higher education receiving federal financial aid under Title IV must comply fully with the Clery Act. The Clery Act requires institutions to complete specific annual and ongoing tasks. Orange Technical College (OTC) is committed to adhering to the law’s requirements by producing this yearly security report. Due to the Clery Act, awareness of safety and security policies and procedures has created a renewed culture around the various topics that encourage transparency while honoring the spirit of the law.

The best education in the world is useless if a student doesn’t survive with a healthy mind and body.

Connie and Howard Clery

Requirements

Officially known as the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act

Requires Colleges and Universities to:

• Collect, classify, and count crime reports and statistics for on-campus, public property, and non-campus facilities for the previous three calendar years, as well as maintain and make available upon request a Daily Crime Log;
• Issue emergency and timely warning notifications to the campus community;
• Provide information regarding policies and practices surrounding campus safety, education and prevention programs, hazing, disciplinary actions, and rights and options for victims; and
• Publish the Annual Security Report (ASR) by October 1st and submit crime statistics to the Department of Education by the required deadline.

The Administrator of Clery Compliance prepares the ASR in collaboration with the OCPS District Police, OCPS Safety and Emergency Management, OCPS Legal Services, and the OTC Senior Leadership to include the Marketing & Communication Team ensuring information represented is accurately updated in this publication.

The ASR reflects the policies, procedures, services, and crime statistics related to Clery Act requirements for properties owned or controlled by OTC that are used for institutional and educational purposes, as well as public property within or immediately adjacent to and accessible from campus. The data consists of 2022, 2023, and 2024 crime statistics compiled through reports made to the Campus Security Authorities, OCPS District Police, and other law enforcement agencies. The OCPS District Police (OCPS DP) evaluates the data provided by local law enforcement agencies to provide campus crime data relative to the Clery Act and submits it annually to the Department of Education. The ASR is published by OTC and is available online. For a printed copy of this report, visit any OTC location or the Ronald Blocker Educational Leadership Center located at 445 W. Amelia St. Orlando, FL 32801.

Notification of Availability

By October 1st of each year, all OTC faculty, staff, and students will receive an official campus phone and email notification regarding the ASR content and availability. The notification provides information regarding the report and a direct link to access the publication.

Posted Notification

Notice of availability is displayed at the following locations:

• OCPS Homepage
• OCPS Human Resources (for current and prospective employees)
• OTC website under Campus Hub and admissions webpage
• Written notification of resources and services regarding mental health services, counseling, medical, victim advocacy, legal assistance, visa & immigration assistance, and other services provided by OCPS/OTC; as well as those available within the local community are available within the ASR and displayed on the OTC website under Campus Safety Hub.

Message from the Chief of Police

Dear Students and Parents:

On behalf of the OCPS District Police, I want to thank you for taking the time to review the Orange Technical College Annual Security Report. Through the publishing of this report, students and parents can become acquainted with crimes that have occurred on or near our campuses. Students must feel safe for learning to occur. We hope that becoming familiar with this report will bring you that peace of mind.

Respectfully,

Bryan D. Holmes
Chief – District police
OCPS District Police

Who We Are

The OCPS District Police (DP) is dedicated to the safety and security of students, faculty, and staff within our schools. They work closely with local law enforcement agencies to ensure that all OCPS traditional schools and technical colleges have access to essential safety services. These local law enforcement agencies are the main responders for emergencies, service calls, and criminal investigations on campus, helping to maintain a safe learning environment for everyone. OCPS DP provides supplementary coverage that includes the authority to make arrests on all property owned by the School Board of Orange County. Comprised of sworn law enforcement personnel, a K-9 detection unit, non-sworn district security officers, intelligence analysts, an enterprise security systems unit, communications specialists, security screeners, school safety and security administrators, a Clery Act compliance administrator, and office management staff, the District Police Department provides a wide range of services including:

• Law enforcement services, as needed
• Uniformed security officers that conduct ID checks at select OTC locations
• Support during emergency response protocols
• Police Communications services for incidents and emergency notifications, 24/7/365
• K-9 detection screenings, as needed – follow on Instagram @coco_ocps
• Clery Act - administrative service

Reporting of a Criminal Behavior or an Emergency

Campus Security Authorities (CSA)

All OTC community members are encouraged to report all crimes and other emergencies directly to local law enforcement. However, we recognize that some may prefer to report to other individuals on campus. The Clery Act recognizes certain college officials and offices as a Campus Security Authority (CSA). According to CFR 34 668.46, the act defines these individuals as “officials of an institution who have significant responsibility for student and campus activities.” Orange Technical College individuals functioning in the following roles are considered CSAs:

1. A campus police department or a campus security department of an institution.
2. Any individual or individuals who have responsibility for campus security but who do not constitute a campus police department or a campus security department.
3. Any individual or organization specified in an institution’s statement of campus security policy as an individual or organization to which students and employees should report criminal offenses.
4. An official of an institution who has significant responsibility for student and campus activities.

Additionally, it includes campus contract security personnel, parking enforcement staff, personnel providing access control, and security at campus facilities or other special events.

CSAs are responsible for reporting crimes to local law enforcement based on jurisdiction. OTC representatives responsible for arranging a “short-stay away trip” or school-sponsored trip(s) for educational purposes are also considered CSAs. Each “short stay away trip” is deemed a non- campus location for the college. Trip information is recorded, and outside local law enforcement agencies are contacted. CSA reporting for non-campus crime incidents is monitored and recorded through local law enforcement by the Administrator- Clery Act Compliance and accounts for any valid statistical information related to the Clery Act. These incidents are counted and disclosed in the annual crime statistics for the institution with no identifying information.

At Orange Technical College, we strongly encourage all students, staff, and visitors to report any crimes, public safety incidents, or suspicious activities immediately.

If you experience an emergency or are a victim of a crime and require immediate assistance, please call 9-1-1 while on campus.

Employees are also required to notify the OCPS District Police about any incidents.

Each year, we compile a crime statistics report that gathers data from the OCPS District Police, local law enforcement agencies, and Campus Security Authorities (CSAs). These reports are assessed to determine if a Timely Warning Notification should be issued to the campus community.

A victim can report interpersonal violence and sex offenses to law enforcement, or they can contact an advocate via a 24/7 crisis hotline at (407) 500-4325 (HEAL). Victim advocates can provide assistance, support, options, and resources. Additional information can be found at the Victim Service Center website.

To report a crime or emergency

• Call 9-1-1 for any situation that requires immediate police, fire, or medical response.
• Contact designated CSAs, OCPS District Police at (407) 317-3333, or an administrator at any OTC campus locations, who can assist with requesting non-emergency law enforcement services; or
• Report a crime anonymously by submitting a tip using the FortifyFL Suspicious Activity Reporting App.

Reporting Criminal Behavior: Non-Emergency Line

Things to consider when communicating with law enforcement dispatch

A public safety dispatcher will ask a series of structured questions for each call received, while a second dispatcher will send the appropriate assistance to your location. Listen carefully to each question and respond according to your recollection.

Voluntary Confidential Reporting

If you are the victim of a crime and do not wish to pursue criminal charges, you may want to consider making a confidential report.

On-campus dual-enrolled students can report crimes and other serious incidents to a Mental Health Counselor / SAFE Coordinator.

Adult students seeking voluntary confidentiality reporting can refer to off-campus victim advocate local law enforcement or to resources at the end of this publication. Employees can report crimes on campus to local law enforcement and report anonymously to Professional Standards, which will be treated confidentially to the maximum extent. The telephone number is (407) 317-3976.

Pastoral and Professional Counselors

Pastoral counselors, mental health counselors, or professional counselors are not considered CSAs when acting in the scope of their field. OCPS/OTC does not employ pastoral counselors.

TITLE IX Coordinator(s)

Per Title IX laws and School Board Policy JB - Equal Educational Opportunities, the District Title IX Coordinator and school-based Title IX Coordinators are readily available. The Title IX Grievance Process ensures the prompt and appropriate resolution of Title IX complaints. Questions or concerns regarding Title IX, this policy, or other aspects of the college equal opportunity or affirmative action programs may be directed to the current District and school-based Title IX Coordinators.

Campus Security

Identification Badge Requirements and Procedures

Orange Technical College requires all students, employees, and visitors to display a photo I.D. badge for security purposes at all times. The following guidelines are to be adhered to by each student and staff member:

• Badges must be replaced if lost, stolen, or damaged and will be paid for by the badge owner;
• Badges are to be visibly displayed on the front of the shirt/blouse, above or at the waist;
• Badges must be worn at all times while on campus;
• Instructors will make a visual check for badges;
• Instructors will not allow student access to class if a student’s badge is not correctly displayed; and
• Students without badges must purchase one or leave campus (high school students must be referred to the Administrative Dean)

Administrators will schedule building checks to ensure badges are being worn and checked as prescribed. Persons attending orientation or conducting business on campus must display a temporary badge.

Employee Parking

Employee parking requires a display of an OCPS/OTC Parking Permit, which is provided upon employee onboarding. Parking permits are required to be displayed at all times while on-campus. Employees who only visit the Ronald Blocker Educational Leadership Center (RBELC) facility, and who do not work at this facility, are exempt from this requirement. All OCPS employees throughout the District must park in the garage on floors 2 through 5 only.

Student Parking

Designated student parking requires purchasing a parking decal, which is to be affixed to the vehicle. Disability parking spaces are provided with a valid Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles disabled parking permit. Temporary parking decals may be issued to students attending courses of less than 30 class hours. Additional parking information is provided in the campus orientation materials.

Visitor Parking

At each OTC Campus, there are designated visitor parking spaces available. Any other parking areas are restricted and require a campus parking decal to be affixed to the vehicle. A valid Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles disabled parking permit must be displayed to park in designated disability parking spaces. Visitors must report to the administration building for a visitor I.D. badge.

If visiting the RBELC, there is a visitor parking area. This is for non-OCPS employees visiting the facility for OCPS business. A parking attendant will direct visitors to the designated area.

In an Emergency — Take Action!

© Copyright 2009-2020, All Rights Reserved. The “I Love U Guys” Foundation. Conifer, CO. The Standard Response Protocol and Logo are Trademarks of The “I Love U Guys” Foundation and may be registered in certain jurisdictions. This material may be duplicated for distribution per “SRP Terms of Use”. SRP MUNI 2021 Poster_EN | V 3.3 | Revised: 05/30/2020 | The “I Love U Guys” Foundation

Emergency Notifications

OCPS is committed to providing a safe learning and working environment to protect all campus community members and ensure compliance with federal legislation.

OCPS has developed a Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan (CEMP), which outlines key operational responsibilities during a campus emergency. Emergency response and evacuation procedures are identified in the CEMP and followed in the event of a campus emergency.

The CEMP identifies key emergency support responsibilities as coordinated with the appropriate OCPS Departments, local, state and federal agencies. This is in coordination with Standard Response Protocols (SRP) that the district uses in response to emergencies situations.

What is an Emergency Notification?

An emergency notification for Orange Technical College locations is triggered by an event occurring on or near the campus which poses a significant emergency or dangerous situation involving an immediate threat to the health or safety of the campus community. The college recognizes an Emergency Notification as an “OTC Alert”. OTC Alerts are sent through a multimedia communication system known as ParentSquare, which provides timely and accurate information in an emergency.

An OTC administrator or designee of the college, an OCPS District Police Administrator, or the OCPS District Police Communication Center will collaborate with the OCPS Media Relations Team to relay an ongoing incident to issue an Emergency Notification to the campus community. Examples of in-progress incidents that necessitate an Emergency Notification include, but are not limited to, the following:

• SECURE, LOCKDOWN, EVACUATE, SHELTER
• Approaching tornado, hurricane, or other extreme weather condition
• Gas leak
• An outbreak of serious illness
• Terrorist incident
• Armed intruder
• Bomb threat
• Civil unrest or rioting
• Explosion
• Nearby chemical or hazardous waste spill

OTC Alert Process

Upon receiving information of an OCPS/OTC incident, the OCPS District Police Communication Center will be notified. An OTC Alert is initiated and determined based on the totality of facts and circumstances surrounding an incident. This analysis will affirm confirmation for notification to the campus community. An OTC Alert for an in-progress incident will be issued to the affected campus community via the appropriate messaging system. The decision to inform the campus community will be based on an emergency or dangerous situation posing a threat to the campus community. The Clery definition of “Confirmation” states that an institution official (or officials) has verified that a legitimate emergency or dangerous situation exists. It DOES NOT necessarily mean that all pertinent details are known or even available.

The OCPS District Police or designee will uphold the confirmation process without delay and take into account the safety of the community, determine the content of the notification and initiate the notification system, unless issuing a notification will, in the professional judgment of responsible authorities, compromise efforts to assist a victim or to contain, respond to, or otherwise mitigate the emergency. Users will have the appropriate access to send OTC Alerts through the appropriate messaging system. The Administrator - Clery Act Compliance, or designee will be the secondary persons to create, edit, and disseminate an OTC Alert through the appropriate messaging system.

When we receive information from someone at the scene, the OCPS Communication Center will use it to identify the location and specific details of the incident. This helps determine how to effectively alert the community. Depending on the situation, alerts may be targeted to specific areas or populations. If a threat is limited to a specific building or a small group of people, we will carefully assess the situation before issuing any notifications.

OTC students (including dual-enrolled), staff, and faculty will receive notifications based on the individuals’ admissions/job affiliated home location, i.e., Apopka, Avalon, East, Eatonville, Main, Ronald Blocker Educational Leadership (RBELC), South, and West Campuses. When OTC Alerts are disseminated, various forms of communication are utilized to include the Mobile ParentSquare Application, phone, and email via the appropriate messaging system.

Additionally, on-campus administrators will have the ability to utilize the public address (PA) system described in the OCPS Standard Response Protocol Guidelines.

Weather-Related Alerts

Any significant weather affecting the district, the OCPS District Incident Management Team members, along with OCPS Media Relations, or Director – Marketing, Recruitment & Enrollment Management or designee will have the authority to create, edit, and disseminate the alerts to the OTC community. The alerts may utilize various forms of communication to include phone, email, and social media, via the appropriate messaging system to include the district’s initial notification regarding weather. An OTC Alert will be provided to the campus community if an extreme weather-related situation occurs during regular operation.

Utilizing the designated Emergency Notification Templates will have the heading “OTC Alert ((Campus Name)) ((incident)). I.e., “OTC ALERT MAIN CAMPUS SECURE.”

An OTC Alert aims to ensure timely notification and information in efforts to keep the campus community members out of harm’s way. Information will include a specific campus where the event is taking place, the type of incident, and the things the campus community should know to keep the communities safe and informed.

All CLEAR

OTC Alerts will have to follow up messages to provide updates and an “ALL CLEAR” notice to inform all the appropriate segments or segment(s) of the campus community when the incident subsides. The OCPS District Police designee, the Administrator for Clery Act Compliance, or a designated campus official shall send an “all clear” message to the campus community using the same distribution methods as the original notification, once the threat has subsided.

OTC Alerts messages shall include the following unless including any of this information would risk compromising law enforcement efforts:

• The specific location of the on-campus incident, including, if possible, the building or classroom number or the cross street of the incident if located off-campus;
• A brief description of the incident; and
• Instructions for the campus community to follow to promote safety.

Increasing OTC Community Awarness

The OTC community is notified annually to promptly report all crimes and public safety-related incidents or suspicious incidents to 911 and inform campus security or an OTC Administrator. All employees are encouraged to contact the OCPS District Police.

Additionally, information regarding evacuation procedures is provided in case of an emergency or dangerous situation. This information is included within the student orientation process and employee onboarding. The OTC community, including visitors, are encouraged to utilize the ParentSquare Mobile app to receive notifications of any emergency situation that affects any OTC Campus. Flyers throughout campus, along with annual notifications, contain information and instruction on the mobile app. Information is also on the OTC Campus Safety Hub.

OTC students, staff, and faculty are automatically signed up to receive OTC Alerts upon admission or employment onboarding. The user can opt-out of these services following the prompts at the time of notification. Current or former students can update contact information by visiting any OTC Campus Admission Office to update their data. Employees can utilize the employee web portal to update their data. Users will have the option to download the appropriate messaging system’s application to assist with message delivery.

Timely Warning

What is a Timely Warning Notification?

The college recognizes Timely Warnings as a “Campus Safety Notice.” A Campus Safety Notice is applied to Clery Reportable Crimes reported to a CSA or local law enforcement, posing a serious or continuing threat to students and employees that occurs within Clery geography. These crimes will be evaluated for a Campus Safety Notice. See Clery Crime Definitions.

In determining the appropriate course of action, an assessment of the crime(s) occurring within the Clery-defined geography will be handled on a case-by-case basis by the Administrator - Clery Act Compliance or an OTC Administrator to include Senior Directors, Assistant Directors, Deans, or designee. If the incident is determined to be a serious or continuous threat to the campus community, it is the primary or secondary users’ responsibility to send a Campus Safety Notice through the appropriate messaging system. An OCPS District Police designee or the Administrator - Clery Act Compliance will be the primary user to create and approve messages for a Campus Safety Notice. The secondary user will be OTC Senior Administrator - Marketing or designee will have the authority and appropriate access to send an approved Campus Safety Notice with the guidance of OCPS District Police. The Administrator - Clery Act Compliance or designee will provide approval before dissemination.

Campus Safety Notice messages will include the following information:

• Information that promotes safety;
• Allows individuals to protect themselves;
• Time, location, and type of crime;
• Contact information of partnering law enforcement agency; and a hyperlink to the OTC Campus Safety Hub.

Unless including any of this information would risk compromising law enforcement efforts.

A Campus Safety Notice may utilize various communication forms that include, but are not limited to, phone, email, and/or college webpage. Notifications will primarily be issued via an all-campus email entitled “Campus Safety Notice.” Messaging will be consistent throughout all modes of communication.

District Safety

Test of the ParentSquare Mass Notification System

The Clery Act requires that the college conduct at least one test of its emergency notification system each year. The college will send a coordinated test message through the appropriate messaging system to include but are not limited to phone, email, text messaging, and the campus public address (PA) system. These tests are unannounced and evaluate emergency notification procedures and the performance of the various systems.

Emergency & Evacuation Information

An essential component of OTC’s emergency preparedness is you! Having students, faculty and staff informed and prepared for emergency and evacuation situations results in fewer impacts to all and a quicker recovery process. You can be more prepared by:

• Discussing and reviewing emergency procedures with your faculty and fellow students;
• Familiarize yourself with the Standard Response Protocol: Lockdown, Secure, Shelter, Evacuate, and Hold. In an emergency, take action;
• Participating in drills and identifying areas for improvement;
• Develop personal preparedness plans by visiting the Ready.gov website; and
• Ensure your contact information is up to date with your OTC campus.

Emergency and Evacuation Procedures are developed by OTC along with OCPS Safety and Emergency Management and are evaluated annually for effectiveness. OTC staff and faculty are trained in evacuation procedures and perform tabletop exercises annually.

Drills are completed monthly and include all students and staff.

Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act (MSDHSPSA)

On February 14, 2018, a tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, FL, took the lives of 17 students and educators. In March 2018, the Florida Legislature passed the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act (SB 7026). This legislation outlines significant reforms to make Florida schools safer while keeping firearms out of the hands of mentally ill and dangerous individuals.

Provisions of the Law Included:

• Requires each school district to designate a School-Based Threat Management Team at each school;
• Creation of the Office of Safe Schools;
• Allowing sheriffs to establish a Coach Aaron Feis Guardian Program;
• The FortifyFL mobile suspicious activity reporting tool;
• New requirements for mental health services and training;
• Requirements for a safe school officer at each K-12 public school;
• Safety assessments for each public school; and
• Appropriations of funding to address identified school safety needs.

Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 543 that became law on July 1, 2023 to include the following:

• All Florida law enforcement agencies must implement an active assailant response policy;
• The Florida Department of Education (FDOE) must develop a Florida-specific statewide behavioral threat management program to replace the previous statewide threat assessment program; and
• By August 1, 2025, the Florida Department of Education (FDOE) must provide an online threat management portal for all K-12 public schools that will facilitate the electronic threat management program.

Although the MSDHSPSA applies to the K-12 schools, OTC adheres to this law to serve the district’s high-school dual enrollment population. If you have any questions, please contact the Florida Department of Education at safeschools@fldoe.org.

Emergency Practices

Collaboration is Key

OCPS/OTC works with experts regularly to develop safety, security, and weather-related procedures. Schools conduct safety drills on each campus in collaboration with local public safety agencies. The district offers comprehensive, multi-layered security recommendations for all campuses.

What Type of Drills Does OCPS/OTC Conduct?

OCPS/OTC collaborates internally and with local, state, and federal partners to ensure readiness for all hazards. All campuses have comprehensive, multi-layered security. OTC also complies with mandated drills for educational sites (1006.07 sec. 4(a) (b), Florida Statutes).

Schools conduct a total of 12 drills, which include the following:

• Fire
• Active assailant
• Severe weather

However, the Apopka and Eatonville campuses have a slightly different schedule. Conducting two emergency drills each academic year: one in August and another in January.

What Type of Training Does School Base Staff Receive?

OTC faculty and staff participate in the annual facilitated discussion, including topics on the Standard Response Protocol, general emergency procedures, and the Active Assailant Response Plan. The School Emergency Response Team, Threat Management Team, and school administration also participate in the Active Assailant and Hostage Situation Training, led by the law enforcement agency with jurisdiction over the specific OTC campus.

Campus Crisis Plan

The Emergency Procedures Manual (Orange Book) is an all-hazards response guide that outlines the actions staff and students should take in the event of an incident. Each campus has a comprehensive plan in place to manage such situations. Crisis procedures are reviewed with students during orientation or by classroom teachers during the first week of class.

Additionally, tabletops, drills, and assessments are performed at OTC campuses. All emergency procedures records are maintained by Safety and Emergency Management (SEM). This information is exempt from public records disclosure pursuant to sections 119.071(3) and 281.301, Florida Statutes.

Safe School Plans - School leadership teams maintain site-specific Safe School Plans. These plans identify critical functions and resources that are necessary to manage a crisis on campus. Emergency procedure plans are specific to the school’s logistics and campus layout to determine the proper response.

• School Emergency Response Team (SERT) - Each campus has a School Emergency Response Team (SERT) responsible for handling emergencies. Staff members who are part of the SERT undergo special training to prepare for their roles during these critical situations. This requirement for the OTC AGE and Apprenticeship Apopka and Eatonville Campuses are exempt due to resource constraints, specifically limited staff capacity to execute the full scope of the task.
• Tabletop Exercise - SERTs are required to conduct an annual discussion-based tabletop exercise to test their plans and training against an emergency-based scenario. Typically, the School’s Detail Officer assigned to the school participates in the tabletop exercise.
• Facilitated Discussions - Annually, school administrators lead their staff by facilitating training discussions on active assailant and school safety topics. These discussions are based on the district’s standardized emergency preparedness online training modules.

Safety and Emergency Management (SEM) Helps ensure the Safety of Students and Staff by:

• Developing and coordinating all-hazard emergency management programs;
• Ensuring business continuity and disaster recovery plans;
• Annually reviewing and approving site-specific Safe School Plans;
• Conducting and facilitating standardized emergency and disaster training programs;
• Maintaining situational awareness of potential threats and developing response plans; and
• Coordinating with community emergency management partners.

Office of Occupational Safety & Health

This department is focused on creating a positive climate and safe environment for students through various safety and health initiatives. This includes improving drop-off and pick-up processes, collaborating with local jurisdictions to support student pedestrian safety, identifying workers compensation claim trends, developing strategies to mitigate common hazards, and providing training on life safety activities (CPR, AEDs, Bleeding Control). The Office of Occupational Safety & Health also engages in community outreach by participating in local safety committees and partnering with external organizations, such as the National Safety Council, to promote student and employee safety through the use of current best practices.

Questions?

OCPS Safety and Emergency Management can be reached at (407) 317-3468 or by emailing emergencymanagement@ocps.net.

We hope to maintain a safe learning and working environment for all OCPS students, faculty, and staff. Thank you for doing your part!

Annual Disclosure Crime Statistics

The tables in this report show Clery-reportable offenses for calendar years 2022, 2023, and 2024 that were reported to OCPS District Police, OCPS Security, Campus Security Authorities (CSAs), or local law enforcement for OTC's Clery geography. The statistics are based on reports of alleged criminal offenses, regardless of a person's affiliation with OTC; inclusion in the statistics does not by itself establish that a crime occurred or that a person was found responsible. The disclosure also includes arrests and disciplinary referrals for liquor-law, drug-abuse, and weapons-law violations and reported VAWA offenses, including dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking. The Administrator of Clery Compliance submits the annual crime statistics to the U.S. Department of Education.

The OCPS DP sends written requests for statistical information yearly to law enforcement agencies providing services to OCPS/OTC locations within their jurisdictions:

• Ocoee Police Department (serving West Campus)
• Orange County Sheriff’s Office (serving Apopka, Avalon, and South Campuses)
• Orlando Police Department (serving Main Campus)
• Winter Park Police Department (Served the former East Campus at 901 W Webster Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789)

*OTC does not offer housing for student: therefore, the college is exempt from publishing an Annual Fire Safety Report and creating a policy for reporting missing students.

The OCPS DP also sends annual requests for statistical information to law enforcement agencies with jurisdiction over other non-campus buildings or properties used by OTC students who travel overnight or frequently visit and is used in direct support of or in relation to the institution’s educational purpose. Crime statistics reported by these agencies are recorded in the calendar year the crime occurred. When criminal activity occurs outside of the OCPS DP jurisdiction, the responding local law enforcement agency will follow its procedures to create a police report for each incident. Upon request from OCPS DP, this agency will then submit its crime statistics. When the data is received, it is reviewed to ensure there are no duplications in reporting between OCPS DP and outside agencies.

All crime reports and accompanying information are evaluated for possible hate-crime classification. A reported crime may be classified as unfounded only after a full investigation by sworn or commissioned law enforcement personnel results in a formal determination that the report is false or baseless - meaning the offense did not occur and was not attempted. Unfounded crime reports are excluded from the offense totals and disclosed separately.

The Clery Act and Violence Against Women Act Compliance

Campus Safety is a top priority for Orange County Public Schools, including those attending Orange Technical College. The OCPS District Police and the college have implemented the Clery Act and Violence Against Women Act Compliance, specific to the college community within School Board Policy JB-Equal Education Opportunities.

This policy aims to promote a safe and supportive environment for the campus community by upholding federal law requirements and fostering transparency, awareness, and education regarding campus safety.

OTC crime statistics do not include incidents occurring in privately owned homes or businesses within or adjacent to the campus boundaries.

Clery Crime Definitions

Under the Clery Act, definitions are provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI’s) Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Summary Reporting System (SRS). The user manual defines Murder, Rape, Robbery, Aggravated Assault, Burglary, Motor Vehicle Theft, Arson, Weapons Carrying, Possessing, etc. Law Violations, Drug Abuse Violations, and Liquor Law Violations. Fondling, Incest, and Statutory Rape definitions are from the FBI UCR National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) Data Collection Guidelines.

The latest crime added to the Clery Crimes list stems from an amendment to the Clery Act known as the Stop Campus Hazing Act (SCHA). This act establishes its own statutory definition of hazing for Clery Act reporting purposes. As a result, institutions must report incidents of hazing based on the definition provided in the SCHA, rather than using the definition from the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) system.

It is based on these definitions that incidences are counted and disclosed within the Annual Security Report.

Clery Crimes

For use in classifying criminal offenses:

Murder & Non-negligent Manslaughter: The willful, non-negligent killing of a human being by another. This includes any death caused by injuries received in a fight, argument, quarrel, assault, or commission of a crime.

Manslaughter by Negligence: The killing of another person through gross negligence. Gross negligence is the intentional failure to perform a manifest duty in reckless disregard of the consequences as affecting the life or property of another.

Sex Offenses: Any sexual act directed against another person without the consent of the victim, including instances where the victim is incapable of giving consent.

• Rape is defined as the penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any body part or object, or oral penetration by a sex organ of another person, without the consent of the victim.
• Fondling is defined as the touching of the private parts of another person for the purposes of sexual gratification, without the consent of the victim, including instances where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his/her age or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental incapacity.
• Incest is defined as sexual intercourse between persons who are related to each other within the degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by law.
• Statutory Rape is defined as sexual intercourse with a person who is under the statutory age of consent.

Robbery: The taking or attempting to take anything of value from the care, custody, or control of a person by force or threat of force or violence and/or by putting the victim in fear.

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 means likely to produce death or great bodily harm.

Burglary: The unlawful entry of a structure to commit a felony or theft. This includes attempted acts as well.

Motor Vehicle Theft: The theft or attempted theft of a motor vehicle. Motor vehicles that serve the primary purpose of transporting a person(s) from one place to another and that meet the UCR definition can include but are not limited to trail bikes, mopeds, and motorized wheelchairs.

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.

Arrest & referrals for Disciplinary Action: Under the Clery Act, institutions must also report arrests and referrals for disciplinary action for liquor law violations, drug abuse violations, and weapon law violations.

• Liquor Law Violations: The violation of state or local laws or ordinances prohibiting the manufacture, sale, purchase, transportation, or possession or use of intoxicating alcoholic beverages, not including driving under the influence and drunkenness.
• Drug Law Violations (Sale and Possession): The violations of state and local laws relating to the unlawful possession, distribution, sale, use, transportation, importation, cultivation, and/or manufacturing of any controlled drug or narcotic substance and the equipment or devices utilized in the preparation and/or use.
• Weapons Law Violations: The violation of state laws or local laws or ordinances prohibiting the manufacture, sale, purchase, transportation, possession, or use of firearms, cutting instruments, explosives, incendiary devices, or other deadly weapons.

Hate Crime

Although there are many possible categories of bias, only the following categories are reported under the Clery Act. If the facts of the case indicate that the offender was motivated to commit the offense because of their bias against the victim’s disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, race, religion, national origin, and sexual orientation it is then also classified as a hate crime.

For Clery Act purposes, Hate Crimes include any of the following offenses that are motivated by the offender’s bias: Murder and Non-negligent Manslaughter, Sexual Offenses (Rape, Fondling, Incest, and Statutory Rape), Robbery, Aggravated Assault, Burglary, Motor Vehicle Theft, Arson, Larceny, Theft, Simple Assault, intimidation, and Destruction/Damage/Vandalism of Property.

Hate crimes are reported in narrative form and are separated by category of prejudice. A hate crime is not a separate, distinct crime, but is the commission of a criminal offense that was motivated by the offender’s bias.

Additional Hate Crimes

• Larceny-Theft: The unlawful taking, carrying, leading, or riding away of property from the possession or constructive possession of another.
• 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.
• 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.
• Destruction, damage or Vandalism of Property: 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.

Hazing

Encompasses any intentional or reckless acts aimed at individuals during initiation into organizations, such as clubs or teams. These acts occur regardless of the participants’ consent and must create a heightened risk of physical or psychological harm beyond typical participation exposure. The importance of this definition lies in acknowledging and addressing the potential dangers associated with hazing practices in student organizations.

Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Offenses

Dating Violence:Violence committed by a person who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim. The existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on the reporting party’s statement and with consideration of the length of the relationship, type of relationship, and the frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship.

Domestic Violence: A felony or misdemeanor crime of violence committed: by a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the victim; by a person with whom the victim shares a child in common; by a person who is cohabiting with, or has cohabited with, the victim as a spouse or intimate partner; by a person similarly situated to a spouse of the victim under the domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction in which the crime of violence occurred; By any other person against an adult or youth victim who is protected from that person’s acts under the domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction in which the crime of violence occurred the domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction in which the crime of violence occurred.

Stalking: Engaging in the course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to (1) fear for the person’s safety or the safety of others; or (2) suffer substantial emotional distress.

• Course of conduct: two or more acts, including, but not limited to, acts in which the stalker directly, indirectly, or through third parties, by any action, method, device, or means follows, monitors, observes, surveils, threatens, or communicates to or about, a person, or interferes with a person’s property.
• Substantial emotional distress: significant mental suffering or anguish that may, but does not necessarily, require medical or other professional treatment or counseling.
• Reasonable person: means a reasonable person under similar circumstances and with similar identities to the victim.

LGBTQ Safe Place

Through the Orlando Police Department (OPD) Safe Place Initiative, the Main Campus is a place where LGBTQ community members can seek support and report anti-LGBTQ crimes. OPD provides current program information and liaison contact details on its official website. Learn about the OPD LGBTQ Safe Place Initiative.

*Orange Technical College does not provide housing for students. Therefore, the college is exempt from publishing an Annual Fire Safety Report and exempt from creating a policy for reporting missing students.

Orange Technical College prohibits the crimes of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking.

Clery Geography

The Clery Act defines Clery geography and mandates the collection and submission of crime statistics to the Department of Education for inclusion in the Annual Security Report. Clery geography encompasses the institution’s on-campus buildings and property, non- campus buildings or property, as well as public areas that are situated immediately adjacent to or accessible from the college.

Daily Crime Log

The Daily Crime Log (DCL) documents criminal and alleged criminal offenses that have occurred within the Clery Geography of our institution and have been reported to or identified by the OCPS District Police or CSA. The DCL aims to accurately record all such offenses. The OCPS District Police Communication Center also helps in communicating calls from local law enforcement to capture offenses. Traffic violations that are non-criminal in nature are not recorded in the log. The DCL is designed to provide crime information on a more timely basis than the annual statistical disclosures. The DCL is required to be updated within two (2) business days of receiving a criminal and alleged criminal incident report. The DCL provides valuable insights into crimes occurring on or near our campus. This information helps keep our campus community informed about safety and supports efforts to prevent crime.

Timeframe for Older Records: Requests for DCL entries older than 60 days will be fulfilled within two business days.

Availability: Records can be accessed Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., during regular business hours.

Location: All archived DCL records from previous calendar years are maintained at OCPS District Police Administrator - Clery Act Compliance at 445 W. Amelia St. Orlando, FL 32801

Campus Geography Defined

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 institutions’ education purposes; and (2) any building or property that is within or reasonably contiguous 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 other retail vendor).

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. The OTC Apopka and Eatonville locations are considered part of the college’s non-campus geography. “Short Stay-Away trips” or school-sponsored trip(s) are included in this geographic category as well.

Public Property: All public property, including thorough fares, streets, sidewalks, and parking facilities that is within the campus or immediately adjacent to and accessible from the campus.

Law Enforcement Relationship and Jurisdiction

OTC campuses rely on the local law enforcement agency of jurisdiction for law enforcement services. OCPS District Police jurisdiction applies to all OCPS locations and are considered a secondary responder to the college. OCPS District Police Area Commanders and Police Sergeants support each college campus and have arrest authority. Additionally, OCPS District Police Communication Center provides support for incident notifications 24/7/365. OTC has a strong partnership with local law enforcement agencies that support each of its campuses. Here’s a breakdown of which police departments serve each location:

Law Enforcement Jurisdiction and Campus Assignment

This collaboration helps ensure a safe and secure environment for all students and staff. In case of emergencies, these agencies will respond to our campuses within their jurisdiction, and they are also available to conduct criminal investigations and respond to calls for service as needed.

OCPS District Police currently interacts with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies as needed to include but not limited, to intel briefing, training, and off-duty coordination.

OTC encourages all witnesses and others to promptly and accurately report crimes and emergencies. Reports can be made to the OCPS District Police, local law enforcement, or a Campus Security Authority (CSA). CSAs are obligated to report all crimes they are made aware of, even if the victim is unable or unwilling to file a report themselves.

Orange Technical College Crime Statistics

Avalon

East

The Crime Statistics chart below details the former East Campus at 901 W Webster Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789. Note that crime stats for this site and the new East location (11550 Lokanotosa Trail, Orlando, FL 32817), which opened in August 2024, will appear in next year’s Annual Security Report (ASR).

Main

South

West

The 2024 Crime Statistics encompass the former West Campus location at 955 E Story Rd. Winter Garden, FL 34761, along with the new West Campus location at 2010 Ocoee Apopka Rd. Ocoee, FL 34761.

Crime Awareness & Security Prevention

Crime Prevention

The goal of OCPS/OTC Crime Prevention Awareness Programs is to inform students and employees of the importance of preventing crime. Training opportunities to promote crime prevention are available for new and continuing students and employees. An announcement to new students attending New Student Orientation navigates participants to the OTC Campus Safety Hub page’s resources and guides participants on locating training opportunities throughout their education. The frequency of this practice is communicated each nine (9) weeks. Informational flyers, posters, and various monthly marketing campaigns and information on the OTC Campus Safety Hub provide ongoing awareness to the OTC community to promote crime prevention. The college encourages and provides FortifyFL Suspicious Activity Reporting App, a crime prevention service available throughout the year to the campus community. The college offers optional training that focuses on crime prevention factors such as alcohol use, drug abuse, and interpersonal violence. Additional information about primary prevention and ongoing education is provided in the following pages of this publication.

Security Awareness

The OCPS/OTC Security Awareness Programs aim to promote a sense of responsibility for safety among the students and employees of the campus. The college conducts several educational programs and distributes informative flyers across all campus locations to create an ongoing awareness of security procedures and practices. The Office of Safety and Emergency Management offers safety awareness services to all OTC/OCPS employees annually. Employees have the option to review the material for continuous education. Moreover, the District Police and CSAs undergo annual training on Clery crime reporting. Our students and employees receive training on various emergency response topics such as evacuation procedures, personal safety education, fire safety, and active assailant training. Employees are also provided threat assessment and de-escalation training. To promote awareness and preparedness, OTC campuses conduct monthly fire drills and active assailant drills every 45 days throughout the year. Additionally, all students who attend New Student Orientation are informed about campus safety and directed to the OTC Campus Safety Hub. The frequency of this practice is shared with new students attending the college every nine (9) weeks. To support ongoing security awareness and crime reporting procedures, marketing campaigns are conducted throughout all OTC campuses, and the OTC Campus Safety Hub. By implementing these measures, the college aims to create a safe and secure environment for its students and employees.

To report a crime or emergency

• Call 9-1-1 for any situation that requires immediate police, fire, or medical response
• Contact designated CSAs, OCPS District Police at (407) 317-3333, or an administrator at any OTC campus locations, who can assist with requesting non-emergency law enforcement services
• Report a crime anonymously by submitting a tip using the FortifyFL Suspicious Activity Reporting App

Lost and Found:

Lost and found articles should be promptly reported to the Administrative Dean. Orange Technical College cannot reimburse the cost of any items that students lose. It is not advised to bring any personal items to campus. Any valuables in a vehicle should be kept locked, out of sight, or in the trunk at all times. Each individual is responsible for his or her belongings.

Rideshare Safety

• Ask the driver their name and ask for the name of the passenger they are picking up.
• Match the license plate number, car make, model, and color to the app.
• Make sure the child lock is not engaged.
• Never get in the front seat while traveling alone.
• Leave the app open to report an emergency immediately using the app’s emergency button.
• Tap “Share status” in the app to share your driver’s name, photo, license plate, and location with a friend or family member.
• Don’t share your phone number or other contact information with your driver.
• When possible, ride with a friend.
• Follow your intuition and trust your instincts. If in danger, call 911 immediately.

Situational Awareness Safety Tips

Prevention efforts can help reduce opportunities for criminal activity. The following is a list of safety tips and general crime prevention information:

• For safety, walk around campus with a friend or someone you know.
• Explore the campus in daylight to become aware of the surroundings. This will provide orientation when walking at night.
• If walking to a vehicle, consider keeping your keys in hand and ready to use.
• Avoid walking around while using electronic devices (e.g., cell phone iPod, etc.); this can distract nearby activity.
• Avoid walking with your arms and hands full. Consider using a backpack, purse, or carry a bag that can be dropped or thrown if necessary.
• When suspicious of being followed, walk, or run to an occupied area where people are present.
• If observing something that looks suspicious, contact OCPS Security or an OTC employee and explain the situation.
• Keep a phone in hand and have 911 on “speed dial” for emergencies.

Online Safety

Things to Consider:

• Create unique passwords for all accounts
• Use multi-factor authentication for additional security measures on your devices
• Stay alert to phishing emails and scams- pay attention to the email addresses
• Do not share personal information online, particularly identity information i.e., social security number
• Use firewalls to ensure all devices connected to your network are secured
• Never click on unknown links and offers that seem too good to be true
• Keep software current

Tips to Prevent Auto Burglary & Theft

Keeping your vehicle safe: Five (5) Tips for preventing burglary and theft:

1) Lock your car and close windows when exiting the vehicle;

2) Don’t leave valuables in plain view;

3) Never leave your vehicle running and unattended;

4) Don’t hide a spare key in your vehicle; and

5) Don’t leave important papers such as bank statements, credit card statements, or other documents in your car.

Disciplinary Response Code

Disciplinary Response Code Overview

OTC has developed a Disciplinary Response Code to help students, parents/guardians, and school personnel understand the guidelines for maintaining a safe and orderly learning environment. The OTC Disciplinary Response Code and OTC Catalog applies to all OTC students, including dual-enrolled students participating in OTC programs. Dual Enrollment Students who participate in a dual-enrollment program are subject to both the OCPS Code of Student Conduct, OTC Disciplinary Response Code, and OTC Catalog. Any disciplinary offenses that occur on an OTC campus will be reported to the student’s home school campus and to the participating OTC campus where the student is dual-enrolled. This may result in the student being excused from the program. In addition, any disciplinary offenses that occur on the OTC campus will be reported to the OTC Dean and may also go to the OCPS disciplinary team for further investigation. Students who commit a verified Level IV offense, as outlined in the OCPS Code of Student Conduct and OTC Disciplinary Response Code, may be unable to complete their dual-enrollment program. Each OCPS student must obey OCPS rules and the Code:

• While on school grounds;
• While being transported to or from school at public expense;
• During school-sponsored events, such as field trips, and similar activities; and
• If appropriate, any other area is permitted by Florida Statutes and/or State Board of Education Rules.

OTC may also have the authority to discipline students for acts near or related to the school or when a student’s conduct may harm the health, safety, or welfare of the student, of other students, of the school, or of school personnel. In addition, while students may be disciplined for offenses according to the responses outlined in the Code, please be aware that there could be additional consequences through law enforcement for acts that violate the law.

Student disciplinary offenses and the responses to them are divided into four (4) levels. Each level represents progressively more serious offenses, and responses to them become progressively more severe. Some offenses require consultation with law enforcement if the offense is deemed to be a violation of state or federal laws. For additional information please see the OTC Disciplinary Response Code and Code of Student Conduct.

Drug-Free Schools & Community Act

Drug, Alcohol, & Substance Abuse Policy

Federally funded institutions require establishing awareness of the health risks associated with drug and alcohol abuse, along with policies to address these substances for both students and employees.

Policy on Drug and Alcohol Use by Students

Florida State Law and Board Policy JICH, titled “Drug and Alcohol Use by Students,” prohibits the unlawful use, possession, or sale of controlled substances, as defined in Chapter 893 of the Florida Statutes. This policy stresses that any student consuming alcohol on school property or at school-sponsored events may face disciplinary actions, including suspension or expulsion, and could also face criminal penalties. It is essential for students, especially those at federally funded institutions, to be aware of the health risks associated with drug and alcohol abuse.

Policy on Drug and Alcohol Use by Employees

The OCPS Drug-Free Workplace Policy (GBEC) outlines strict guidelines for employees regarding controlled substances and alcohol. “no employee shall use, possess, manufacture, distribute, or be under the influence of controlled substances or alcohol while on duty or on property owned or operated by the Board, except when he/she is using a controlled substance in conformance with the instructions of a physician. Possession of a controlled substance or alcohol while on duty may result in a recommendation to terminate the employee.” By following these guidelines, both students and employees contribute to a safer, healthier educational environment.

Compliance with Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (DFSCA)

Following the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 (DFSCA), the Department of Education Requirements (34 CFR § 86.100) provide guidelines for the college to construct, prepare, distribute and inform the college community regarding drugs and alcohol. The guide developed is entitled The Drug Abuse and Alcohol Prevention Program Guide (DAAPP). Contained within the DAAPP are essential elements necessary to the compliance requirements of the DFSCA. The DAAPP is also constructed as a helpful instrument for reference to include the following:

I. Standards of conduct that clearly prohibit, at a minimum, the unlawful possessions, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees;

II. A list of applicable legal sanctions under federal, state, or local laws for the unlawful possession or distribution of illicit drugs or alcohol;

III. A description of the health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol;

IV. A list of any drug and alcohol programs (counseling, treatment, or rehabilitation or re-entry) that are available to employees or students; and

V. A clear statement that the institution will impose disciplinary sanctions on students and employees (consistent with local, state, and federal law) a description of those sanctions, up to and including expulsion or termination of employment and referral for prosecution for violation of the standards of conduct. OTC Leadership, including the Senior Director/Assistant Director/ Deans, oversees the handling of any discipline or sanctions resulting from violations of OCPS policies, the OCPS Code of Student Conduct (JIC), OTC Disciplinary Response Code Document, and the OTC Catalog.The Office of Professional Standards enforces and recommends discipline or sanctions for employee violations related to the OCPS Drug-Free Workplace Policy (GBEC) to school leadership. OCPS personnel would refer any state/local law violations to the proper authorities. For the full DAAPP, please visit the OTC Campus Safety Hub at Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program (DAAPP).

Biennial Review

The OTC Biennial Review is a self-assessment and examines the prior two academic years of OTC’s Drug and Alcohol Abuse Policy, prevention programming, and associated training provided to the college community for all OTC locations: Apopka, Avalon, East, Eatonville, Main, South, and West Campuses. The evaluation aims to adhere to all DFSCA requirements set forth by the Department of Education while providing meaningful training to the college community. The next publication of the Biennial Review will be available Fall of 2026. Furthermore, the review will assist the college in determining effectiveness, evaluating the consistency of policy and enforcement, and identifying and implementing any necessary future changes. Moreover, it will allow the college to evolve with the demographic of the college and strengthen programming areas if training does not meet the needs of our student body. OCPS/OTC is a smoke-free campus

Reaching our Campus Community

Drug and Alcohol Prevention Training Summary

Online training that meets the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (DFSCA) primary prevention requirements for alcohol and other drugs is available to all OTC students, faculty, and staff. During new student orientation and employee onboarding, training is communicated on how to enroll. Once enrolled, it is available for future reference through the Canvas student/ employee educational portal. The college developed its own interactive online training in partnership with OCPS District Police and in collaboration with the Orange County Drug-Free Coalition of Central Florida. This optional online training is entitled “Did You Know, Alcohol and Other Drugs Training.” The training is research-based and covers a wide range of topics provided in four (4) modules:

• Module one (1): Drug Classification Overview of Schedule One Drugs;
• Module two (2): Alcohol and Tobacco;
• Module three (3) Drug Classification and Associated Drugs; and
• Module Four (4) Awareness and Response The “Did You Know, Alcohol and Other Drugs Training” includes a pre-test and engaging short videos focusing on schedule one drugs and incorporating interesting facts about substance abuse and its effects on one’s health. It also explains how to recognize someone under the influence, provides recovery resources, and highlights federal, state, and local laws and institutional policies concerning alcohol and illegal substances. The training includes an end-of- course survey to capture participants’ understanding, which will help the college improve training based on the needs of our campus community.

Available Training for New and Continuing OTC Students

This training is available to all new and continuing OTC students, including dual-enrolled students. The OTC campus community is informed about this training through ongoing static marketing initiatives and campus announcements during Red Ribbon Week, National Substance Abuse Awareness Month, and the OTC Campus Safety Hub. During the student sign-up process, a message informs students that they will not receive credit for their participation. This training will be delivered to participants via their institutional email and auto-populate in their Canvas portal.

Available Training for New and Current OTC Employees

During the onboarding process, the college informs new employees about “Did You Know, Alcohol and Other Drugs Training.” All OTC employees have the option to view this training within the PD Catalog via the Canvas Portal. All OTC employees have access to training content throughout the year to support ongoing and continuous education about alcohol and other drugs. “Reasonable Suspicion Online Training for Managers” is online training available to OTC Administrators via Canvas. This is an approximately two- hour interactive training session followed by a brief assessment. Several topics are discussed and scenarios are provided to assist employees in understanding how to recognize the signs of substance abuse and addiction on the job. To aid reporting efforts, institutional policy and reporting checklists are included as well as useful links and resources.

Stop Campus Hazing Act (SCHA)

Hazing:

On December 23, 2024, a notable federal law, the Stop Campus Hazing Act (SCHA), was introduced as an amendment to the Clery Act. This new legislation is designed to change how colleges and universities fundamentally address hazing. The SCHA aims to enhance transparency, increase accountability, and give students a clear understanding of how institutions are handling this serious issue. By requiring institutions to report hazing incidents and share their prevention strategies openly, the act fosters a campus culture where students and staff feel safe to report hazing without fear. This initiative is more than just following legal requirements; it’s about creating a safer and more supportive environment. By focusing on hazing education and awareness for everyone on campus, this effort helps students focus on their studies and personal growth. To meet the goals of the SCHA, colleges and universities need to carry out several important measures, including:

• Annual Security Report (ASR): By October 1st of each year, ensure the inclusion of hazing statistics in the ASR. Specifically list hazing incidents that occurred over the previous three years. Any reports of hazing incidents will be noted within the 2026 ASR moving forward.
• Defining Hazing: “The term ‘hazing’, for purposes of reporting statistics on hazing incidents…means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act committed by a person (whether individually or in concert with other persons) against another person or persons regardless of the willingness of such other person or persons to participate, that:
• is committed in the course of an initiation into, an affiliation with, or the maintenance of membership in, a student organization; and
• causes or creates a risk, above the reasonable risk encountered in the course of participation in the institution of higher education or the organization (such as the physical preparation necessary for participation in an athletic team), of physical or psychological injury, including—
• whipping, beating, striking, electronic shocking, placing of a harmful substance on someone’s body, or similar activity;
• causing, coercing, or otherwise inducing sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement in a small space, extreme calisthenics, or other similar activity; ◊ causing, coercing, or otherwise inducing another person to consume food, liquid, alcohol, drugs, or other substances;
• causing, coercing, or otherwise inducing another person to perform sexual acts;
• any activity that places another person in reasonable fear of bodily harm through the use of threatening words or conduct;
• any activity against another person that includes a criminal violation of local, State, Tribal, or Federal law; and
• any activity that induces, causes, or requires another person to perform a duty or task that involves a criminal violation of local, State, Tribal, or Federal law.”
• A student organization Is defined as “an organization at an institution of higher education (such as a club, society, association, varsity or junior varsity athletic team, club sports team, fraternity, sorority, band, or student government) in which two or more of the members are students enrolled at the institution of higher education, whether or not the organization is established or recognized by the institution”
• Recognized student organizations and groups at OTC: Family Career and Community Leaders of America, National Adult Education Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society, SkillsUSA.

Florida Hazing Laws: Andrew’s Law & The Chad Meredith Act

The Chad Meredith Act

In July 2005, a new law was established in honor of Chad Meredith, a University of Miami student who tragically drowned following a night of drinking with fraternity members during his pledge period. At the time of his passing, Chad’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was recorded at 0.13%. Across the U.S., a BAC of 0.02% - 0.08% signifies illegal intoxication, indicating that both physical and cognitive functions are impaired. This law creates specific criminal offenses for hazing at both the high school and college levels.

State of Florida’s Definition of Hazing

“Hazing” means any action or situation that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for purposes including, but not limited to, initiation or admission into or affiliation with any organization operating under the sanction of a postsecondary institution. “Hazing” includes, but is not limited to, pressuring or coercing the student into violating state or federal law, any brutality of a physical nature, such as whipping, beating, branding, exposure to the elements, forced consumption of any food, liquor, drug, or other substance, or other forced physical activity that could adversely affect the physical health or safety of the student, and also includes any activity that would subject the student to extreme mental stress, such as sleep deprivation, forced exclusion from social contact, forced conduct that could result in extreme embarrassment, or other forced activity that could adversely affect the mental health or dignity of the student. Hazing does not include customary athletic events or other similar contests or competitions, or any activity or conduct that furthers a legal and legitimate objective.

In the State of Florida, Hazing is a Criminal Offense

• A third-degree felony of hazing is when a person intentionally or recklessly commits any act of hazing upon another person who is a member of or an applicant to any type of student organization, and the hazing results in serious bodily injury or death of such other person.
• A first-degree misdemeanor, when he or she intentionally or recklessly commits any act of hazing upon another person who is a member of or an applicant to any type of student organization and the hazing creates a substantial risk of physical injury or death to such other person. It is not a defense to a charge of hazing that:
• The consent of the victim had been obtained;
• The conduct or activity that resulted in the death or injury of a person was not part of an official organizational event or was not otherwise sanctioned or approved by the organization; or
• The conduct or activity that resulted in death or injury of the person was not done as a condition of membership to an organization.

Source: Chad Meredith Act, HB 193,

Source: Florida Statutes & Constitution

Hazing Policies:

The OCPS Hazing Policy Statement is part of the School Board Policy JIC , which is included in the Code of Student Conduct, and the OTC Disciplinary Response Code applies to our dual- enrolled students at OTC.

(1) “Hazing” is defined as any action or situation that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student at a school with any grades 6 through 12 for purposes including, but not limited to, initiation or admission into or affiliation with any organization operating under the sanction of a school with any grades 6 through 12.

(2) “Hazing” includes, but is not limited to:

(a) Pressuring or coercing the student into:

i. Violating State or Federal law;

ii. Consuming of any food, liquor, drug, or other substance; or

iii Participating in physical activity that could adversely affect the physical health or safety of the student.

(b) Any brutality of a physical nature, such as whipping, beating, branding, exposure to the elements; and

(c) Any activity that would subject the student to extreme mental stress, such as sleep deprivation, forced exclusion from social contact, forced conduct that could result in extreme embarrassment, or other forced activity that could adversely affect the mental health or dignity of the student.

(3) “Hazing” does not include customary athletic events or other similar contests or competitions or any activity or conduct that furthers a legal and legitimate objective.

(4) Permission, consent, or assumption of risk by an individual subjected to hazing shall not lessen the prohibitions contained in this policy.

(5) Hazing activities of any kind are prohibited at any time on Board property, on school transportation, at school activities, and/or off school property if the misconduct is connected to participation or membership of a club or organization of a school.

(6) No administrator, faculty member, or other Board employee shall encourage, permit, authorize, condone, or tolerate any hazing activities.

(7) No student shall plan, encourage, or engage in any hazing activity.

(8) All Board employees shall be alert to possible situations, circumstances, or events that might include hazing.

(9) If hazing or planned hazing is discovered, the student(s) involved shall be ordered to end all hazing activities or planned activities immediately and shall be disciplined pursuant to the OCPS Code of Student Conduct.

(10) Any student, employee, parent/legal guardian, or third party who has knowledge or engages in conduct in violation of this policy, or any student who feels he/she has been a victim of hazing, shall immediately report the concerns to school officials.

How to report incidents of hazing per JIC policy;

(a) The reporting of such an act may be done anonymously by:

i. Telling the school official the reporter wishes to remain anonymous;

ii. Sending an email to the school principal/district;

iii. Calling the school/district; or

iv. By using any other form of communication to inform the school of the alleged hazing.

(11) All hazing incidents reported to the school shall be reported immediately to the Superintendent or designee, and to the appropriate law enforcement agency. Each incident of hazing shall be reported in the school’s safety and discipline report required under Section 1006.09, Florida Statutes. Any Board employee that fails to report hazing incidents pursuant to this policy may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination.

(12) Anyone who is a victim or perpetrator of hazing will be referred to a certified school counselor.

Hazing Investigation Process:

OCPS employees follow the Code of Student Conduct when handling student offenses.

iv. By using any other form of communication to inform the school of the alleged hazing.

(11) All hazing incidents reported to the school shall be reported immediately to the Superintendent or designee, and to the appropriate law enforcement agency. Each incident of hazing shall be reported in the school’s safety and discipline report required under Section 1006.09, Florida Statutes. Any Board employee that fails to report hazing incidents pursuant to this policy may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination.

(12) Anyone who is a victim or perpetrator of hazing will be referred to a certified school counselor. For any hazing incidents, documentation must be submitted to aid in the investigation. If an offense is also a potential crime under Florida law, it includes the Chad Meredith Act (§ 1006.63) for colleges and § 1006.135 for high schools.

Threat and Hazing Investigations

If an investigation is based on an alleged threat, the School Threat Management Team will review it. This team was created in accordance with both Board Policy, JICK, Threats, and Florida Statute 1006.07. For hazing incidents, especially those that involve sexual misconduct, stalking, or dating violence, it is considered a Title IX violation. The school’s Discipline Team will investigate it along with the discipline office. All hazing incidents must also be reported to law enforcement.

Hazing Prevention and Awareness Education

The OCPS Hazing Policy Statement (JIC) and OTC do not include specific prevention and awareness programs. However, there are educational initiatives related to hazing. Dual-enrolled students participating in any athletic program at OCPS have the option to take free online elective courses developed by NFHS.org, titled “Hazing Prevention for Students,” available at NFHS Hazing Prevention for Students course, and “Bullying, Hazing, and Inappropriate Behaviors,” found at NFHS Bullying, Hazing, and Inappropriate Behaviors course. These courses are available to employees, students, parents, and other interested parties. These courses are designed to help students identify hazing, understand when to intervene, and recognize the importance of notifying the appropriate authorities. The courses define hazing and its various forms, highlight how it differs from bullying, and emphasize the role of bystanders in fostering a culture that welcomes new members. Additionally, there is a mandatory Hazing Prevention Course designed specifically for coaches at OCPS, which is offered annually and provides a subsidy upon completion. The goal of this course is to enhance coaches’ ability to effectively serve students, the school, the community, and the profession of coaching. OTC is excited to announce the upcoming sharing of prevention education materials created by the Gordie Center. This great organization from the University of Virginia has produced engaging short videos that cover important topics such as recognizing the signs of healthy versus unhealthy organizations, identifying hazing behaviors, and understanding effective bystander interventions. If you’re interested in learning more about their impactful work, be sure to visit Gordie Center. This information will be available later this year on the OTC Campus Safety Hub, under Prevention, Education, & Resource Page.

Campus Hazing Transparency Report (CHTR)

Institutions are required to create a Campus Hazing Transparency Report (CHTR), which is a separate report from this Annual Security Report (ASR) that details hazing violations by student organizations. This CHTR report will be updated at least twice a year and include:

• The name of the student organization involved.
• A general description of the violation and any sanctions imposed.
• The dates of the incident, investigation, and final finding.
• This report must not contain any personally identifiable information.
• Any hazing incidents reported in July 2025 will be published by June 30, 2026, and will be featured on the OTC Campus Safety Hub under the section titled Prevention, Awareness & Resources, specifically in the Hazing Prevention Education section. If our institution finds that there are no hazing violations following the recent reports, OTC will supply clear and supportive language to communicate this message. It’s important for our campus community to know that we are fully compliant with the SCHA requirements and that there are no new findings to disclose. This transparency helps foster a safe and informed environment for everyone.

Public Notification

OTC will provide public access to our institutions’ hazing statistics and reports. This will include links to the ASR and the Campus Hazing Transparency Report, along with the requirements outlined in the SCHA. This information is on the OTC Campus Safety Hub, which will be updated at least twice a year. The first notification regarding these updates will be released by December 23, 2025.

Understanding Title IX

Scope of Title IX

Title IX’s primary function is to protect individuals from discrimination based on sex in education programs or activities that receive federal financial assistance. To determine if allegations fall within the scope of Title IX, schools must determine the following:

• Do the allegations meet the definition of sexual harassment even if proved, as defined in Title IX;
• Did the conduct occur in an OCPS education program or activity; and
• Did the allegations occur against a person in the United States. The scope of liability extends to any student organization that postsecondary institutions officially recognize. Under Title IX, any person may report sex discrimination at any time. A school’s education program or activity includes locations, events, or circumstances over which OTC exercised substantial control over both the respondent, and the context in which the sexual harassment occurred. If the allegation(s) falls within the scope of Title IX, the complaint will follow the Title IX grievance process. Sexual harassment means conduct based on sex that satisfies one or more of the following: (a) An OCPS employee conditioning the provision of an aid, benefit, or service of the school on an individual’s participation in unwelcome sexual conduct; (b) Unwelcome conduct determined by a reasonable person to be so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to the school’s education program or activity; or (c) Sexual assault as defined in 20 USC 1092(f)(6)(A)(v), “dating violence” as defined in 34 USC 12291(a)(10), “domestic violence” as defined in 34 USC 12291(a)(8), or “stalking” as defined in 34 USC 12291(a)(30).

Reporting Sexual Harassment

Any person may report sexual harassment regardless of whether the reporting person is the alleged victim of the conduct. These reports may be made at any time, including non-business hours, or can be made in person, by mail, telephone, or electronic mail, using the contact information for the District Title IX Coordinator or school- based Title IX Coordinator. Any person with knowledge of sexual harassment is strongly encouraged to report the incident(s). Reports should be made as soon as possible after the alleged incident, as a formal complaint must be filed within ten (10) school days. OTC is responsible for responding to complaints once it has notice even if notice is not received within the aforementioned time frame. All OCPS employees must report, in writing, any allegations of sexual harassment. OTC is obligated to respond when any OTC Title IX Coordinator or official with authority to institute corrective measures has knowledge of allegations of sexual harassment.

Response to Knowledge of Sexual Harassment

OTC must respond to the knowledge of sexual harassment in OTC’s education program or activity against a person in the United States within twenty-four (24) hours or no more than two (2) school days. Upon knowledge of sexual harassment, the school-based Title IX Coordinator must:

1. Contact the complainant to discuss the availability of supportive measures;

2. Consider the complainant’s wishes concerning supportive measures;

3. Inform the complainant of the availability of supportive measures with or without the filing of a formal complaint; and

4. Explain the process of filing a formal complaint. If the alleged sexual harassment might constitute a crime, the school- based Title IX Coordinator shall immediately report the matter to the School Resource Officer or the appropriate law enforcement agency. Any uncertainty regarding whether the alleged sexual harassment might constitute a crime must be resolved in favor of reporting the incident to law enforcement. When an OCPS employee is the respondent, the school-based Title IX Coordinator or school administrator shall notify OCPS Professional Standards immediately. Professional Standards may issue disciplinary action consistent with any applicable collective bargaining agreement provisions or statutory provisions to resolve a complaint of sexual harassment.

Formal Complaints of Sexual Harassment

Formal complaints may be filed by a complainant or signed by the school-based Title IX Coordinator. At the time of filing, the complainant must be participating in or attempting to participate in an OTC education program or activity. Once a formal complaint has been filed, the school-based Title IX Coordinator will determine if:

1. The allegation(s) in the complaint meets the definition of sexual harassment;

2. The conduct occurred in an OTC education program or activity; and

3. The allegation(s) occurred against a person in the United States. OTC must follow the Title IX grievance process if each of these requirements are met. If any of the requirements are not met, the formal complaint will be dismissed. The matter may be referred to the administration to investigate pursuant to the OCPS Code of Student Conduct. OTC must provide written notice within two (2) school days of the allegation(s) to all known parties upon receipt of a formal complaint.

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Although OTC strongly encourages all community members to report violations of this policy to law enforcement, it is the victim’s choice whether or not to make such a report. The victim has the right to decline involvement with the police. OTC will assist any victim by notifying local police if they so desire. The OCPS District Police works with the other partner agencies to investigate crimes when deemed appropriate.

Any person may report sexual harassment, regardless of whether the reporting person is the alleged victim of the conduct. A report can be made in person, by mail, telephone, or electronic mail, contacting the District Title IX Coordinator or school-based Title IX Coordinator. Reports may be made at any time, including during non-business hours. Any person with knowledge of sexual harassment is strongly encouraged to report the incident(s). OTC will provide resources both on-campus and off-campus, including medical, health, counseling, advocacy, financial aid, legal assistance, and visa & immigration assistance to persons who have been victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking, and will apply appropriate disciplinary procedures to those who violate this policy. Per School Board Policy JB, Complainant means an individual who is alleged to be the victim of conduct that could constitute sexual harassment.

Respondent means an individual who has been reported to be the perpetrator of conduct that could constitute sexual harassment. In accordance with the Clery Act and the Violence Against Women Act, the remaining sections will use the term “victim” synonymously to “complainant.” The procedures below are intended to afford a prompt response to allegations of sexual assault, domestic or dating violence, and stalking, maintain confidentiality and fairness consistent with applicable legal requirements; and impose appropriate sanctions. As time passes, evidence may dissipate or become lost or unavailable, thereby making an investigation more difficult to prosecute successfully. Additionally, disciplinary actions or obtaining orders for protection may be adversely impacted. If a victim chooses not to make a complaint regarding an incident, he or she should consider speaking with local law enforcement or the OCPS District Police to preserve evidence if the victim changes her/his mind at a later date. Further information surrounding the preservation of evidence may assist in proving that the alleged criminal offense occurred and may help obtain a protection order. This information is available in writing within the OTC Written Notification Guide. If a report of sexual assault, stalking, dating violence, or domestic violence is reported to OTC, the following procedures will be followed:

1. OTC or OCPS District Police will provide a Victim’s Rights Booklet and Written Notification Guide.

2. Depending on when the incident is reported (immediate vs. delayed report), provide the victim with access to medical care if needed.

3. Assess the immediate safety needs of the victim.

4. Assist the victim with contacting local police if the victim requests and provide the victim with contact information for the local police department.

5. Provide the victim with referrals to on- and off-campus resources as required.

6. Provide a copy of OTC policies prohibiting sexual misconduct to the victim and inform the victim regarding time frames for inquiry, investigation, and resolution.

7. Inform the victim of the outcome of the investigation, whether or not the accused will be administratively charged, and inform the victim of the outcome of any administrative hearing that may have taken place.

8. Enforce the anti-retaliation policy and take immediate and separate action against parties that retaliate against a person who complains of sex-based discrimination or assist in the investigation. The preponderance of the evidence is the standard of evidence used to determine responsibility, meaning that if there is a greater than fifty-percent chance that claim is true.

Assistance for Victims: Rights and Options

If a victim elects to pursue a criminal complaint, whether the offense occurred on- or off-campus, OTC will assist victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking and will provide each victim with a written explanation of their rights and options. Information on this process is provided in the OTC Written Notification Guide.

Rights of Student and Employee Victims of Sexual Misconduct

Sexual misconduct is not tolerated at OTC. Reports of sexual violence misconduct, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking, are taken seriously. The following rights are afforded to any OTC student, staff, or faculty member who experiences sexual misconduct:

1. Confidentiality. Identifying information of a victim will be protected as much as possible within legal requirements.

2. Timely Warnings. Will be disseminated through ParentSquare Mass Notification System utilizing a Campus Safety Notice. The appropriate safety information will be included to share with our community and will not identify a victim by name.

3. Reporting Options. OTC encourages victims to file a report so that OTC may investigate and take appropriate action to protect the victim and others from additional misconduct and take appropriate action against the alleged offender. However, ultimately, it is the victim’s choice to report her or his victimization. At OTC, there are several offices to report an incident if a victim chooses to do so. Information on this process is provided in the OTC Written Notification Guide.

4. No Contact or Protective Orders. OTC honors all protective orders acquired through the court system. Please bring a copy of the court order to an OTC Administrator. The administrator will ensure the process for enforcement takes place. Information on this process is provided in the OTC Written Notification Guide.

5. Requests for Changes. A victim may request a change in an academic setting (class or campus), work assignment, or district bus transportation accommodations to be separated from the alleged offender. Such a request will be granted to the greatest extent possible. These requests should be made to the school-based Title IX Coordinator or the District Title IX Coordinator at 445 W. Amelia Street Orlando, FL 32801 at (407) 317-3411.

6. Fair and Impartial Investigation and Resolution. A victim can expect a fair and just process as his/her complaint is investigated. For questions, contact the District Title IX Coordinator/ EEO Officer at 445 W. Amelia Street Orlando, FL 32801 at (407) 317-3411.

7. Retaliation Concerns. Threats, intimidation, and any form of retaliation for making a complaint of sexual misconduct are prohibited by federal law and may be grounds for disciplinary action up to and including expulsion or termination. If any retaliation occurs, it is important to contact either the school- based Title IX Coordinator or the District Title IX Coordinator at 445 W Amelia Street Orlando, FL 32801 at (407) 317-3411.

8. Community Resources. OTC campuses and their surrounding communities offer resources to victims. Please refer to the last few pages of this publication for further information.

Provisions for Victims

Alleged victims of violence or harassment whose cases are handled by OTC have certain rights as outlined in School Board Policy JB. To ensure fairness to victims of acts of violence throughout the disciplinary process, OTC has established the following provisions for victims:

1. A victim may have a person of her or his choice accompany her or him throughout the investigative process. This person will act as a support person or advisor but will not represent the victim. A victim shall be notified of the available assistance at OTC.

2. OTC Administration will investigate, including but not limited to interviewing witnesses, reviewing videos, & consulting with the OCPS District Title IX/ EEO Coordinator.

3. A victim may not have her or his irrelevant past conduct, including sexual history, discussed during the investigation.

4. A victim may be provided access to view the charged student’s statements during the investigation.

5. A victim shall not be questioned directly by the charged student during the investigation. All questions shall be asked through an OTC Administrator or advisor for Title IX proceedings.

6. A victim may make a “victim impact statement” and suggest an appropriate sanction, disciplinary warning, disciplinary probation, disciplinary suspension, and/or disciplinary expulsion if the charged student is found to have violated the Code of Student Conduct.

7. The victim and the charged student will be informed of the outcome of the student conduct review, any outcomes, and appeal process concurrently in writing, after committing to protect the confidentiality for all persons involved as outlined in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. The victim must be informed of the outcome of the investigation and any appeal without a commitment to protect the confidentiality of the information, pursuant to the Clery Act Regulations, 34 CFR 668.46(b)(ll). The “final outcome” means only the final determination regarding the alleged offense and any sanction imposed against the accused. If the alleged victim of such crime or other crime offense is deceased due to such crime or offense, the next of kin shall be treated as the alleged victim for purposes of this paragraph. OTC will provide the written determination of the hearing, appeal outcomes, and any changes to the result before it becomes final to the victim.

8. A victim will be given periodic status updates throughout the investigation.

Rights of Students and Employees Accused of Sexual Misconduct

If you have been accused of sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating or domestic violence, or stalking, and the college determines whether disciplinary action is appropriate, you have certain rights.

1. Charges. You have the right to be notified of the charges against you. You will be notified in writing and will be provided a copy of the complaint against you.

2. Investigation. You have the right to a prompt, fair, and impartial investigation of the final result of the complaint against you, including an opportunity to present witnesses and other evidence.

3. Standard of Evidence. The standard of evidence that is applied is called a “preponderance of the evidence,” meaning you will only be considered responsible for sexual misconduct if the evidence shows that there is a greater than fifty-percent change that the claim is true. Less evidence is required under this standard than under the “beyond a reasonable doubt” standard that would be used if you are also criminally charged for sexual misconduct by law enforcement. However, at the complainant’s request, OTC may change a class assignment or working relationship or issue a campus protective order to separate the complainant and alleviate the situation to the greatest extent possible.

4. Sanctions. You have the right to know the potential sanctions that may be imposed if you are found responsible for violating the Title IX sexual harassment policy. Those possible sanctions include parent contact, counseling, and direction, expulsion from school, restorative practice, PASS, suspension from school, referral to intervention program, expulsion from a bus, assignment to an alternative school, removal from extracurricular activities, referral to mental health services, schedule change, safety plan, no contact contract, and SAFE/guidance referral or employment termination.

5. Information. You have the right to information regarding the status of the complaint against you, including the outcome of the campus investigation and any disciplinary action, the procedures to appeal a disciplinary action, and the outcome. When a Student is the Accused The following provisions are designed to provide a fair process for both parties while also ensuring victims’ protections under Title IX. As a public institution, OTC must provide due process to students accused of violent conduct, dangerous behavior, sexual misconduct, dating violence, domestic violence, and/or stalking. OTC may proceed with disciplinary action without the alleged victim’s consent. However, the victim retains the right to decide how they wish to engage in the student conduct process. This proactive approach is taken when the alleged behavior poses a reasonable threat of physical harm to others, creates a hostile environment that interferes with others’ ability to work, study, conduct research, or participate in other activities, or otherwise calls into question the accused student’s suitability as a member of the OTC community. When an Employee is the Accused Allegations of a Title IX violation are received by the district primarily one of four ways to include: Reporting to EEO Officer, District Whistle Blower at (407) 317-3976, Professional Standards Office (PSO), or Work Site Administration. Once the initial allegation is received, the matter will be referred to the District Title IX Coordinator/EEO Officer, who will conduct an initial investigation. If the investigation yields a confirmed finding of a violation, the matter will be sent to PSO for a misconduct investigation. The PSO reviews the case and gathers additional evidence as needed. If necessary, the PSO will conduct an interview with the employee. As this meeting may lead to disciplinary action, the employee is entitled to have representation present during the interview. If a violation of policy is confirmed by PSO, disciplinary action may be issued that is consistent with any applicable collective bargaining agreement provision or statutory provisions to resolve in an allegation of a violation of Title IX. Disciplinary

Action could include: verbal coaching, written directives (not disciplinary in nature), written reprimand, suspension or termination. The PSO will follow the applicable timelines as prescribed in the Collective Bargaining Agreement and statutes regarding employee disciplinary hearings. The PSO department is responsible for conducting all investigations of misconduct where an employee is the accused, and is the only department that is authorized to issue discipline. If PSO reviews the case and determines that no policy violation occurred, the case is closed with the finding of “unconfirmed” and the employee is notified of the findings.

Grievance Process for Students

In response to a formal complaint, OTC will follow a specified grievance process. The school-based Title IX Coordinator/Investigator will begin an investigation upon receiving a formal complaint. The investigation will include interviewing the complainant and respondent separately and gathering relevant evidence. Written notice for investigative interviews will be sent at least two (2) school days before the interview. Both parties will be given an equal opportunity to inspect and review the relevant evidence obtained as part of the investigation. After the investigation, the school-based Title IX Coordinator/Investigator will create and send an investigative report to all parties and identified advisors. Reports are required to be received within ten (10) days before a hearing for their review and written response. After the investigation, a live hearing with cross-examination will be provided by OTC. Notice for any hearings will be sent at least ten (10) school days before the hearing. The hearings will occur with all parties at the same geographical location unless a party requests the hearing to be in separate rooms with technology, enabling all parties to see and hear one another. All parties must have an advisor to conduct a cross-examination on their behalf. Each advisor can ask any party and witness relevant questions and follow-up questions, including questions challenging credibility. Cross-examination is conducted directly, orally, and in real-time. The relevance of all questions will be determined by the Hearing Officer. Parties will have access to all evidence at any hearings and be given the opportunity to refer to such evidence. All evidence will be made available at the hearing for parties’ inspection and review.

Written Determination

The written determination process pertains to all adult OTC students and follows the process below. For dual-enrolled students, the written determination follows the Student Code of Conduct. After the grievance process, the hearing officer will determine the outcome using the preponderance of the evidence standard. Under the preponderance of the evidence standard, an allegation would be substantiated as a violation under Title IX if there is greater than a fifty- percent chance that the claim is true. The hearing officer will issue a written determination to the parties simultaneously within three (3) school days. The written determination will list any disciplinary sanctions imposed on the respondent. Parties have the opportunity to appeal a written determination within two (2) school days of issuance. Requests for appeal should be sent to the hearing officer. OTC will notify the other party in writing when an appeal is filed.

Sanctions and Remedies

OTC will follow a specified grievance process before imposing any disciplinary sanction against a respondent and provide a range of the possible disciplinary sanctions and remedies that may be implemented.

Injunctions

OTC complies with Florida law in recognizing orders of protection, which are called injunctions in Florida. The type of injunction differs based on the nature of the threat and the victim’s relationship to the abuser. Injunctions are issued throughout the State of Florida. Information on this process is provided in the OTC Written Notification Guide.

Dating Violence Injunctions You may file a Dating Violence Injunction if there has been an incident of violence between individuals who have had a continuing relationship of a romantic and intimate nature. The relationship must have existed within the past six months.

Domestic Violence Injunctions An incident of violence where the perpetrator is your: spouse, former spouse, or if they are related to you by blood, living with you or have lived with you in the past, or is the other parent of your child(ren) whether you have been married or lived together; you may file a Domestic Violence Injunction.

Repeat Violence Injunctions You may file a Repeat Violence Injunction if two or more incidents of violence have been committed against you or a member of your immediate family by another person. At least one of those acts of violence must have occurred within the last six (6) months of filing a petition.

Sexual Violence Injunctions You may file a Sexual Violence Injunction if there has been an incident of violence wherein a sexual act is committed or attempted. To receive an injunction, you must have reported the sexual violence to law enforcement and be cooperating in any resulting criminal proceeding.

Stalking Injunctions You may file a Stalking Injunction if someone purposely follows or harasses you repeatedly over a period of time for no legitimate reason. Please refer to the Orange County Clerk of Court webpage for more information on the types of injunctions and the requirements for filing: Orange County Clerk of Courts injunction information.

Order of Protection

Any person who obtains an order of protection from Florida or any U.S. state should provide a copy to the District Title IX Coordinator and school administration. A victim may then meet with Police and/or a victim advocate to develop a safety action plan. This plan may include but is not limited to: escorts, different parking arrangements, providing a different telephone number or email address, changing classroom or working locations, and/or allowing a student to complete assignments from home. OTC cannot apply for a legal order of protection (injunction) for a victim from the applicable jurisdiction(s). The victim is encouraged to utilize services provided and may obtain assistance from the OCPS District Police or another local law enforcement agency or go directly to the Orange County Courthouse located at 425 N. Orange Avenue Orlando, FL 32801 (407) 836-2000. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm. *holidays observed. Students and employees should contact the District Title IX Coordinator at 445 W. Amelia Street Orlando 32801, (407) 317-3411 to report incidents of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and/or stalking. Victims of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking in need of an emergency injunction after hours, contact your local police department or, if on-campus, the OCPS District Police. OTC may issue an institutional no-contact order if deemed appropriate or at the victim’s request or at the accused’s request. OTC will work cooperatively with the victim’s consent to ensure that the victim’s health, physical safety, work, and academic status are protected, pending the outcome of a formal investigation of the complaint. For example, if reasonably available, a victim may be offered changes to academic or working situations in addition to counseling, health services, financial aid, visa and immigration assistance, and assistance in notifying appropriate local law enforcement.

Confidentiality

Personally identifiable information about the victim will be treated as confidential and only shared with persons with a specific need to know who are investigating/adjudicating the complaint or delivering resources or support services to the victim. For example, all publicly available record-keeping for purposes of Clery Act reporting and disclosures will be made without the inclusion of identifying information about the victim, as defined in 42 USC 1395 (a) (20)). Further, the institution will maintain any accommodations or protective measures provided to the victim as confidential to the extent that maintaining such confidentiality would not impair the ability of the institution to provide the accommodations or protective measures.

Advisors

Parties may have one (1) advisor of their choosing, who may be, but is not required to be, an attorney. Parties must have an advisor conduct a cross-examination at the hearing on their behalf. If a party does not have an advisor, the party must request an advisor from OTC five (5) school days before a hearing. OTC must provide an advisor to the party without fee or charge.

Training

All Title IX personnel are trained annually. School-based Title IX Coordinators/Investigators, hearing officers, and appeals decision- makers are trained on the definition of sexual harassment, the scope of the school’s education program or activity, how to conduct an investigation, the grievance process, including hearings and appeals, and how to serve impartially, including by avoiding pre-judgment of the facts, conflicts of interests, and bias. Hearing officers receive training on the technology used at live hearings and the relevance of questions and evidence. The school-based Title IX Coordinators/Investigators receive training on relevant issues to create an investigative report that fairly summarizes the evidence and the proper procedures for sending the investigative report. All training materials are publicly available on the OCPS website.

Adjudication of Violations

Participants from each OTC campus are designated and identified by OTC executive leadership to assist with adjudication efforts, including Title IX Coordinators and other administration from various departments. Designees of the college are required to complete training entitled “Title IX Compliance for Schools: A training for Orange County Technical College Title IX Coordinators/ Investigators.” This interactive Online training is provided annually, discusses various topics and trains on the definition of sexual harassment, and discusses the intersections of the Clery Act with institutional response to incidents of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. This course provides OTC Title IX Coordinators and Investigators information on the grievance process including how to conduct an investigation; avoiding conflicts of interest, and bias; key terms and definitions, reporting procedures, written determination, and appeals.

Student Disciplinary Process and Sanctions / Consequences for Dual-Enrolled Secondary Students

The OTC disciplinary process is consistent with the OCPS Code of Student Conduct. It will include a prompt, fair, and impartial investigation and resolution process transparent to the accuser or the accused. The OTC disciplinary process does not include communications or meetings between officials and victims regarding accommodations or protective measures to be provided to the victim. However, investigators and hearing officers receive annual training on issues related to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. This training includes guidance on conducting investigations and hearings in a manner that prioritizes victim safety and promotes accountability. Depending on the offense’s classification, an accused student may be disciplined following the OCPS Code of Student Conduct. The accused student shall be afforded the procedural safeguards outlined in the OCPS Code of Student Conduct. *See School Board Policy JB: Equal Educational Opportunities for the complete Title IX Grievance Policy

Sanctions / Consequences for TITLE IX Offenses

In all cases, investigations that result in a finding that a violation occurred will lead to disciplinary procedures against the accused individual. Campus sanctions for sexual misconduct include the following and will be imposed upon a finding of responsibility:

Disciplinary Suspension

A student involved in an offense warranting consideration of action more serious than disciplinary probation or one engaged in repeated misconduct may face suspension. During the suspension, a student may not attend classes and participate in campus-related activities, whether they occur on or off-campus. A student under disciplinary suspension may not otherwise be present on college campus premises unless authorized; except if the suspension creates an undue hardship of the suspended student regarding considerations that include, but are not limited to, the student’s medical needs. An overlay will be placed on a student’s record during the period of suspension. Further, a hold will be placed on a student’s record for record- keeping purposes while on disciplinary suspension. A student must complete all assigned educational sanctions before disciplinary suspension; otherwise, the disciplinary suspension will remain in effect.

Disciplinary Expulsion / Consequences

When the finding indicates a violation of this policy, as determined by a “preponderance of the evidence,” the Hearing Officer will assign sanctions/ consequences to the alleged offender. In deciding sanctions/ consequences, the Hearing Officer may consult with the appropriate college/district officials. Depending on the offense’s classification, an alleged offender may be disciplined under the OCPS Code of Student Conduct. In all cases, investigations that result in a finding more than a violation occurred will lead to disciplinary procedures against the alleged offender. Sanctions/consequences may include expulsion, with or without continuing educational services, from the alleged offender’s regular school for not less than one (1) full year; referral to the criminal justice or juvenile justice system; no contact contract; and/or trespass issuance off-campus. If expelled, the alleged offender will no longer have the opportunity to graduate or re-enroll at OTC in the future. An admission hold will be permanently placed on a student’s record.

Educational Sanctions

In conjunction with an administrative sanction, a student found to have violated any of the Code of Student Conduct will be assigned educational sanctions such as, but not limited to, reflective/ research papers, classes/seminars, community service, interviews, etc. If a student has any outstanding educational sanctions after disciplinary probation or suspension, a student’s disciplinary probation or suspension status and a hold will remain in effect pending the completion of the educational sanctions.

The Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 (VAWA)

Policy Adherence

OTC follows School Board Policy JB, Equal Educational Opportunities, and the Code of Student Conduct when responding to complaints involving sexual harassment, sexual violence, dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and sexual assault. OTC prohibits these acts whether the reported conduct occurs on or off campus. Questions or reports should be directed to the District Title IX Coordinator or a school-based Title IX Coordinator.

Written Notification: Resources for Victims of Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, or Stalking

In response to a report of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking, OTC provides students and employees with a Written Notification Guide. The guide explains reporting options; assistance from campus authorities and local law enforcement; privacy; rights and institutional responsibilities concerning court and institutional protective measures; evidence preservation; and available academic, transportation, workplace, and other supportive measures. It also identifies mental health, counseling, medical, victim advocacy, student financial aid, legal, and visa or immigration resources. OTC does not provide student housing, so the college refers people to community agencies for help with living arrangements. Active students and employees receive annual notice of available services and resources.

State of Florida Statutes

The following summaries identify the Florida statutes most directly related to the report's state-law definitions. The linked Florida Senate pages provide the complete 2025 statutory text represented by this Annual Security Report.

VAWA Education and Prevention Programs

Available Training Summary

The college offers education on the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), which includes topics such as dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and sexual assault. The training course, “Sexual & Interpersonal Violence Prevention and Response Course,” also known as “SPARC GO” was created by SUNY and is grounded in research. This training aims to educate participants about the impacts of interpersonal violence, recognizing signs of violence, and increasing awareness to reduce risk. It also includes valuable links and resources related to institutional policy and reporting options. This course is accessible online to new and current students and employees at all times.

SPARC Go

This online interactive training is broken up into three (3) modules. The information discussed is researched based and identifies various impacts of interpersonal violence and signs of violence to provide awareness around the subject matter to reduce risk. SPARC Go training includes a short quiz after each module to assist the learner in testing their understanding of the material.

• Module one (1) talks through various forms of sexual harassment and defines dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, sexual assault, and consent.
• Module two (2) goes through several forms of resources such as Title IX, reporting options, and national hotlines for support.
• Module three (3) discusses safe ways to be an active bystander and provides external resources to help identify healthy relationships and ways to help end violence. Included within this training are on and off-campus resources, OCPS Code of Student Conduct noting institutional policy prohibiting behaviors of interpersonal violence. Along with disciplinary procedures, explanation of rights and options are resources provided in training.

Available Training for New and Continuing OTC Students

All new students receive training information during New Student Orientation. Moreover, continuing OTC students, including dual-enrolled students, can access SPARC Go Training content for prevention and continuing education to stay informed and safe. When students sign up, they are notified that they will not receive credit for participating. This training is sent to participants via institutional email and automatically appears in their Canvas portal. All registered participants can access the material at their own pace, allowing them to review it throughout the school year. The OTC campus community is informed about this training through ongoing marketing initiatives and campus announcements during National Awareness Month(s), and the information is available on the OTC Campus Safety Hub.

New and Current OTC Employees

The training provided to all students is also shared with OTC employees. New college employees receive information about this training during their on-boarding process from their administrator. All employees can easily access the SPARC Go training materials each year through the Canvas Portal for employees. The training content is available throughout the year for reference, supporting ongoing education regarding interpersonal violence for all OTC employees.

Disclosure Statements Noted Within Student and Employee Training

The training is optional, but it contains sensitive material related to sexual and interpersonal violence. It is understood that such programming may be problematic for some viewers. Participants in the training will see trigger warnings and have access to resources throughout the program.

VAWA Continuing Education Awareness Campaigns

OTC has developed annual educational campaigns consisting of posters and marketing materials to bring awareness for nationally recognized months, including October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month; January, National Stalking Awareness Month; & Dating Violence Awareness Month; and April, National Sexual Assault Awareness Month. In April, the college participates in National Denim Day, a campaign to support survivors and victims and provide education surrounding sexual assault. These National Awareness Months and campaigns provide ongoing awareness and prevention information that corresponds to the training provided by the college. Learn more about this topic and ways to reduce interpersonal violence by visiting the OTC Campus Safety Hub page at OTC Campus Safety Hub The OCPS DP Screening team, with Lt. Howarth and K-9 Coco, along with Lt. Ogburn, proudly spread awareness for Denim Day during National Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

Risk Reduction Considerations

Education on risk reduction is designed to decrease the likelihood of perpetration, reduce bystander inaction, and empower potential victims. It promotes safety by fostering community support and addressing the underlying conditions that contribute to violent behavior. The college offers primary prevention programs and ongoing awareness initiative focused on interpersonal violence, risk reductions, and bystander intervention. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the perpetration risk factors can include individual, relationship, community, societal, and protective factors. Identifiers for perpetration include but not limited to:

• Individual Risk Factors: Alcohol and drug use, Aggressive behaviors and acceptance of violent behaviors, and lack of concern for others;
• Relationship Factors: Family history of conflict and violence, Emotionally unsupportive family environment; to recognize warning signs of abusive behavior, avoid potential attacks;
• Community Factors: Poverty, lack of employment opportunities, and general tolerance of sexual violence within the community; and
• Societal Factors: Societal norms that support sexual violence, high levels of crime, and other forms of violence;

Protective Factors for Perpetration: include academic achievement, families where caregivers work through conflicts peacefully, and emotional health and connectedness. *For more CDC information and a complete listing of risk factors for perpetration, CDC sexual violence prevention information.

Some risk-reduction strategies include the following:

• Trust your intuition;
• Let a friend or family member know where you will be;
• If you feel threatened on campus or nearby area, look for campus security or call 9-1-1;
• Your voice and your body are your best weapons. Learn practical ways to use them by taking a self-defense class off-campus, and bring a friend with you; and
• Look out for one another. If you witness misconduct and decide to intervene, do it safely. Violence does not stop violence; call law enforcement if you cannot prevent the action with your words

Bystander Intervention and Risk Reduction

We encourage our entire community to be active bystanders and to look out for one another’s well-being. Members of the OTC Community can play a role in facilitating safe and favorable options as a bystander and is discussed within the college’s primary prevention and ongoing awareness campaigns. Bystander intervention programs share several components which aim to increase: awareness; a sense of responsibility; perceptions of norms; weighing pros and cons; confidence, skills; and context. A common challenge with increasing bystander participation is that bystanders are often unsure of themselves as responders and unclear whether intervention is unwelcome or needed.

Some bystander intervention includes:

• Recognizing situations of potential harm;
• Understanding institutional structures and cultural conditions that facilitate violence;
• Overcoming barriers to intervening;
• Identifying safe and effective intervention options, and
• Taking action to intervene. The college promotes the “See Something, Say Something” campaign to encourage bystander intervention. Another intervention option is seeking assistance from an authority figure, notifying campus security authorities, or calling local law enforcement.

Considerations in Social Situations:

• Be an active bystander. Direct, delegate, or distract when you see something potentially harmful;
• Get clear. Unambiguous consent for every aspect of sexual activity
• Stop what is happening. If someone says no or looks uncomfortable;
• Ask for clarification. If there are mixed messages;
• Communicate. Boundaries and expectations;
• Trust your instincts. If you feel unsafe, uncomfortable, or worried for any reason, don’t ignore these feelings. Go with your gut and get out of the situation;
• Have a backup plan. Sometimes plans change quickly. You might realize it’s not safe for you to drive home, or the group you arrived with might decide to go somewhere you don’t feel comfortable; and
• Download a rideshare app. Uber, or another reliable rideshare service. Remember, you have options. If we all do one small action, we can create an environment that is intolerant of harmful behavior.

Considerations when alcohol is involved

• Keep an eye on your friends. If you are going out in a group, plan to arrive together and leave together. If you decide to leave early, let your friends know. If you’re at a party, check in with them during the night to see how they’re doing. If something doesn’t look right, step in. Don’t be afraid to let a friend know if something makes you uncomfortable or worried about their safety.
• Know what you’re drinking. Don’t recognize an ingredient? Use your phone to look it up. Consider avoiding large-batch drinks like punches or “jungle juice” that may have deceptively high alcohol content. Generally, there is no way to know exactly what was used to create these drinks.
• Don’t leave a drink unattended. That includes when you use the bathroom, go dancing, or leave to make a phone call. Either take the drink with you or throw it out. Avoid using the same cup to refill your drink.
• Don’t accept drinks from people you don’t know or trust. This can be challenging in some settings, like a party or a date. If you choose to accept a drink from someone you’ve just met, try to go with the person to the bar to order it, watch it being poured, and carry it yourself.
• Check-in with yourself. You might have heard the expression “know your limits.” Whether you drink regularly or not, check in with yourself periodically to register how you feel.
• Be aware of sudden changes in the way your body feels. Do you feel more intoxicated than you should? Some drugs are odorless, colorless, and/or tasteless and can be added to your drink without noticing. If you feel uncomfortable, tell a friend and have them take you to a safe place. If you suspect you or a friend has been drugged, call 911 and be upfront with healthcare professionals so they can administer the proper tests.
• Ask yourself, “Would I do this if I was sober?” Alcohol can affect your overall judgment. You wouldn’t drive, make medical decisions, or ride a bike while intoxicated.

Here are several off-campus bystander intervention programs recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing sexual violence or associated outcomes:

• Coaching Boys into Men; Coaching Boys Into Men
• Bringing in the bystander;
• Green Dot; and
• The Rape Prevention and Education Program.

* For more CDC information and a complete listing of risk factors for perpetration, CDC sexual violence risk factors.

Victim Services

Florida Council Against Sexual Violence’s (FCASV)

The mission of victim services is to collaborate with and empower organizations and individuals to eliminate violence in our community through advocacy, education, and training. Utilizing this national resource will route calls to the local crisis center. The Florida Council Against Sexual Violence’s (FCASV) website also includes a search for local sexual violence treatment centers.

Considerations for Survivors

The Victim Service Center (VSC) of Central Florida offers free, confidential support. A person affected by sexual violence, crime, or abuse can reach an advocate through the 24/7 crisis helpline at (407) 500-4325 (HEAL), with or without making a police report. VSC advocates provide crisis support, explain options and resources, and may respond in person off campus on a case-by-case basis. In Florida, forensic evidence may be collected even if a person chooses not to report to law enforcement. Learn more from the Victim Service Center of Central Florida.

National Resources

Sexual Assault Treatment Center

The Florida Council Against Sexual Violence’s (FCASV) local sexual violence treatment center search

Hotline Number (800) 956-7273

Victim Service Center of Central Florida

Recommendations for Survivors of Sexual Violence:

• Call the VSC 24/7 crisis helpline at (407) 500-4325 (HEAL) or the FCASV statewide hotline at (800) 956-7273.
• Address health concerns as soon as possible (advocates can assist with related medical appointments at the local Sexual Assault Treatment Center at (407) 254-9475);
• Consider filing a police report (recommended but not required);
• Do not change your clothing;
• Do not wash your body or clothes (saving clothing items, sheets, etc. can provide significant evidence even if you delay reporting or disclosing);
• Do not alter/change the scene of the crime;
• Remember that support and assistance are only a phone call away. Mental Health Support groups for victims of crime Crisis counseling for victims and their families

Legal Support

Accompaniment during the legal process Assistance filing for injunctions against repeat violence- sexual violence, dating violence, or domestic violence Assistance in applying for victim compensation Forensic evidence collection and medical services to victims of sexual assault within the first five (5) days following the incident Information about victims’ rights and the legal process Victim advocates will assist with notifying the Police Department if requested by the victim

Safety Planning

Referral to other programs for emergency needs Safety & personalized service planning Public awareness and public education

*The college does not have an agreement with outside Victim Advocates Agencies and they are not CSAs. Information provided is for education and awareness.

VSC Services Include

Do you know the importance of preserving evidence?

Preserving evidence is critical when proceeding with a criminal investigation. It is essential to know that completing a medical forensic exam is not required to file a police report or report an incident to the institution.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION TO CONSIDER

If you are a victim of sexual assault, please do not bathe, douche, smoke, use the toilet, or clean any area that may contain DNA evidence. To store evidence properly save items you were wearing, sheets, or towels in a paper bag.

*Text messages, records of phone calls, emails, pictures, notes, and gifts can be considered relevant information for a report of sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking

Emotions are to be expected

Dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking are significant events that can be traumatizing to a victim. Though each person’s experience is unique, there are a wide range of emotions that may be felt over the days, weeks, months and even years following a traumatic experience. These reactions may change over time and it may be helpful to address them with the assistance of a trained counselor or therapist, victim/ survivor advocate or even a trusted friend or family member. Please refer to the Off-campus Resources for support.

Possible physical effects may include:

• Pain and soreness
• Injuries
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headaches
• Panic attacks
• Sleep pattern disturbances, insomnia or sleeping more than usual
• Loss of appetite or change in eating habits (overeating or under- eating, etc.)

The college will never publicly disclose information related to the victims and other parties. All publicly available record-keeping for purposes of Clery Act reporting and disclosures will be made without the inclusion of identifying the victim’s personal identity.

Sexual Predators and Jessica Lunsford Act Statement

Orange County Public Schools aims to provide a safe working and learning environment for all students and employees. This goal follows the Jessica Lunsford Act’s intent. It is an OCPS School Board Policy GBG: Staff Welfare and Protection policy that individuals who have been convicted as a Sexual Predator or Sexual Offender may not enroll in our schools. (Section 1601 of Public Law 106-386) is a federal law enacted on October 28, 2000, which provides for the tracking of convicted, registered sex offenders enrolled as students at institutions of higher education, or working or volunteering on campuses. For more information or to search for an offender by name,or neighborhood visit Florida Sexual Offenders and Predators Search, or contact the Florida Department of Law Enforcement at: Enforcement and Investigative Support Post Office Box 1489 Tallahassee, FL 32302-1489 Toll-free: (888) 357-7332 (M-F 8:00am - 5:00pm, EST) Local: (850) 410-8572 (M-F 8:00am - 5:00pm, EST) Email: sexpred@fdle.state.fl.us

THE CAMPUS SEX CRIMES

PREVENTION ACT

Other resources available to persons who report being the victim of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking include:

• Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network: Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN)
• Department of Justice: U.S. Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women: Sexual Assault
• Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights: U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights
• Center for Disease Control and Prevention CDC: CDC Violence Prevention

On-Campus Resources

Current on-campus contacts and services include OTC Campus Deans, Campus Security Authorities, school-based and District Title IX contacts, counseling and mental health resources, OCPS employee resources, student visa and immigration assistance, student financial aid, and other student support services.

Campus Business Hours

Student Visa & Immigration Assistance

407-317-3200
Ext.200-2607

Off-Campus Community Resources

Community resources are available for counseling and mental health, anonymous reporting, health services, alcohol and substance-use prevention and treatment, legal assistance and protective orders, hazing prevention, victim advocacy, visa and immigration assistance, and other support needs.

Orange Technical College