Health & Safety

As a member of this community, you are encouraged to contact Texas Lutheran University Police to report any suspicious circumstances or criminal activity. TLU officers are fully-certified Texas Peace Officers with arrest authority. Their jurisdiction is defined in the Texas Education Code and Code of Criminal Procedures and governed by directives of other state laws.

However, TLU police restrict most of their action to property owned by the university. The TLU Police Department has procedures in place so that other law enforcement agencies may report to us any crimes related to TLU.

The university police department is under the command of the TLU chief of police, Officer Irene Garcia. The police officers at TLU are fully licensed and commissioned officers through the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer’s Standards and Education.

Police officers are on duty 24 hours/day, 365 days/year. The university police are responsible for, but not limited to, (1) the protection of the students, faculty, staff and visitors, their property, and the physical structures and premises of TLU, (2) the enforcement of federal and state laws, (3) enforcement of the rules and regulations of the TLU administration and the Board of Regents.

The police department is also responsible for the issuing of campus parking permits and the enforcement of parking regulations. The police department is community oriented which includes crime prevention programs as well as criminal investigations, patrol and administrative divisions.

Mission Statement

Texas Lutheran University Police Officers pledge to provide police services that assist community members in maintaining a safe and well-ordered campus environment in which the educational mission of the university can be realized. We pledge at all times to show respect for all individuals and their rights, to uphold the law, to strive for excellence in every service we provide and always to act with the highest integrity. We actively seek ways to provide services and to strengthen our partnership with the community realizing at all times that protection of our students, staff and faculty is our primary duty. We work to maintain a progressive law enforcement organization that embraces the values of the university community.

Security

Texas Lutheran University Residence Halls are secured 24 hours a day. Residents gain entry by using a magnetic access card. Outside entry points are monitored by security cameras. All other Texas Lutheran University facilities are open during regular business hours, and accessed by key after hours. Faculty, staff, and students are required to have a Texas Lutheran University ID CARD in their possession at all times and to present their ID CARD upon request. Texas Lutheran University ID CARDS may be obtained at the Texas Lutheran University Registrar Office in the Beck Center.

Security Provisions

The Texas Lutheran University campus residence halls are secured at all times. Access is gained by use of one’s student identification card. Other campus facilities, except for the Alumni Student Center, are locked to unauthorized persons by midnight.

Residents in our apartments are encouraged to lock and secure their doors at all times. Residents are also encouraged to keep personal possessions (e.g. bicycles, barbecue pits) securely locked or indoors and to report any problems or suspicious behavior to Texas Lutheran University Police Department.

TLU will attempt to make timely reports of possible safety hazards or known criminal activities that might endanger the campus community by posting notices campus-wide or by placing verbal notices on the campus telephone network.

The community is urged to heed such warnings when they are issued. TLU officers routinely check for the proper functioning of all security lighting. To report a problem involving the residential life policies of TLU, (excessive noise, vandalism, alcohol use, interpersonal conflict or the like); contact the resident assistant or residence hall director.

What Do To In Case Of Severe Weather Or Fire

TLU has a state-of-the-art emergency notification system that is capable of sending notifications instantly and simultaneously to all registered cell phones, wireless accounts, and email addresses.

E2Campus is a service that is being provided by the university for the TLU community. As such it will be used for emergency notifications only. There will be no advertising.

Sign-Up For E2Campus Alerts

University Police are available 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week to answer your call. To report a problem involving criminal activity (theft, DWI, illegal drug use, assault, rape, etc.), contact the Texas Lutheran University Police Department by dialing “0” or extension 8199 on any TLU phone or call:

• Texas Lutheran University Police: 830-372-8199
• TLU Campus Dispatch: 830-372-8000
• Seguin Police/Fire/EMS: 9-1-1
• TLU Police Chief Irene Garcia: 830-372-6309
• Dean of Student Affairs: 830-372-8060

Visit MyTLU for additional resources or contact Director of Counseling Services Sarah Westerfield.

Policy For Timely Warning

In compliance with “Timely Notice” provisions of the federal Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act of 1998 the University Police are responsible for timely warnings to the campus community. All information will be given that will promote safety. All “Clery Act” crimes will be included as well as any crimes reported to the University Police and are considered by the institution to represent a serious or continuing threat to students and employees. It is irrelevant to University Police whether the victims or the perpetrators are members of the campus community.

Issuing a timely warning will be made on a case-by-case basis and will involve the nature of the crime, continuing danger to the campus community and the possible risk of compromising law enforcement efforts. University Police Department Administrators (and at times input from Texas Lutheran University Administration), will determine when timely warnings are made.

Campus Security & Fire safety Compliance Report

This notice is being posted in compliance with the Campus Security Act Title 34, Volume III CFR 668.41. The Texas Lutheran Campus Security Report is providing you with a copy of the 2022 Annual Security and Fire Safety Report containing information about the university's policies related to fire safety and statistics, campus security and law enforcement as they relate to sexual offenses, liquor law violations, and controlled substance offenses.

This report is published each year and includes descriptions of campus crime prevention programs, procedures for reporting crimes on campus, and information about the number and frequency of crimes reported to the University Police Department over the last three years.

The Texas Lutheran Campus Security Report is available at no charge and can be picked up at the Bubble or at the Police Department. It is also available on the university’s website under Campus Safety.

Crime Stats are posted in compliance with DOE Section 668.46, Texas Lutheran University Policies and procedures for the Student Right to Know Act and Reporting Criminal Offenses.

Crime Awareness & Campus Security Report

The Texas Lutheran University Police Department prepares this report to comply with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act. This report is prepared in cooperation with our main campus, distance learning and satellite campuses, and the Office of Student Life. Each entity provides update information on their educational efforts and programs to comply with the Act.

Annual calendar year crime statistics complying with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Police and Crime Statistics Act of 1998 can be located at the following website: www.ope.ed.gov/security/instidcrime.asp. Annual academic year crime statistics are shown below.

The Federal Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act of 1990 requires institutions of higher education to report their crime statistics for recent years. View the latest crime statistics report.

Despite this low campus crime record, students need to exercise every precaution and safety habit. Always lock your vehicle and residence or housing quarters.

Crime Reporting Policies & Procedures

University community members (students, faculty and staff) are encouraged to report all crimes and public safety related incidents to the University Police Department in a timely manner. Crimes should be reported to the University Police Department to ensure inclusion in the annual crime statistics and to aid in providing timely warning notices to the Texas Lutheran University community, when appropriate.

To report a crime or emergency on the Texas Lutheran University campus, call the Texas Lutheran University Police Department at 830-372-8000. To report a non-emergency or public safety related matter, call the Texas Lutheran University Police Department at 830-372-8199.

Crime Reporting

The Texas Lutheran University Police Department encourages anyone who is the victim of a crime, or witnesses to a crime, to report it to the University Police Department. Texas Lutheran University Police Department reports are public record under state law and cannot be held in confidence. Dial “0” from an on campus phone, or call the Texas Lutheran University Police Department at 830-372-8199, or call the Texas Lutheran University Dispatch at 830-372-8000.

Confidential Information Reporting

Confidential information or reports may be made by direct line accessed by the Chief of Police only. The number is 830-372-6899. However, this information may be subject to disclosure under Texas Open Records Act.

The Board of Regents of Texas Lutheran University has adopted an alcohol policy that allows for the responsible and legal use of alcoholic beverages. Regulations are intended to ensure that the consumption of alcohol is done safely, responsibly, and in keeping with Texas state law and university policy.

The university neither encourages the use of alcohol nor tolerates the abuse of alcohol. Any use of alcohol must be managed in a way that respects the rights of those who choose not to consume. Use of alcohol must be characterized by care, responsibility and accountability.

TLU offers many educational programs that target Drug and Alcohol abuse some of which include; TIPS (Training for Intervention Procedures for students), confidential online alcohol screening throughout the school year, mandated one-on-one alcohol education/counseling for students who violate TLU’s alcohol policy, and special events and programming held during the National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week (NCAAW) and the Safe Spring Break Initiative. For more information on these and other programs dealing with drug and alcohol abuse education/prevention, please contact Marlene Moriarity, director of Counseling Services.

For more detailed information, please consult the section on alcohol in the latest edition of the university’s student handbook.

Policy Statement on the Drug-Free Schools Amendment

The federal government’s Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendment of 1989 requires universities to certify that they have a program to prevent the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees. This page describes TLU’s response to this federal requirement.

Standard Of Conduct

University conduct policies and the Student Code Of Conduct are published in the student handbook. Specific disciplinary action is described for any student who engages in conduct that is prohibited by federal, state, or local law. The illegal use, possession, or distribution of drugs and alcohol is specifically prohibited. The university’s policy on employee use, possession, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol is stated in all university handbooks.

Health Risks Of Alcohol & Drugs

Use of illicit drugs can cause physical and mental changes, though frequently these changes are severe and sudden. Death or coma resulting from overdose of drugs is more frequent than alcohol, but unlike alcohol, abstinence can lead to reversal of most physical problems associated with drug use.

Alcohol – Excessive use of alcohol can result in accidents, dramatic behavioral changes, retardation of motor skills, birth defects or reproductive complications, vitamin deficiency, impairment of rational thinking, and serious withdrawal symptoms.

Prolonged alcohol abuse may cause bleeding from the intestinal tract, damage to nerves and the brain, psychotic behavior, loss of memory and coordination, damage to the liver often resulting in cirrhosis, impotence, severe inflammation of the pancreas, and damage to the bone marrow, heart, testes, ovaries, and muscles.

Cancer is 10 times more frequent among alcoholics than among non-alcoholics.

Rohypnol – Unfortunately, the usage of this drug has increased on campuses across the nation. Usually found in 2 mg doses, this drug is suspect in many alleged date rape situations. Often slipped unsuspectingly into someone’s drink, the drug provides the effect of disinhibition and sedation; in effect, the victim seemingly loses all power to resist and frequently becomes confused and disoriented for several hours. Make certain that you know and trust anyone who offers to bring or serve you a drink. On rare occasion, death has resulted in the usage of this drug.

Marijuana – Marijuana is usually ingested by smoking. Prolonged use can lead to psychological dependence, disconnected ideas, alteration of depth perception and sense of time, impaired judgment, and impaired coordination.

Cocaine – Cocaine is a stimulant that is most commonly inhaled as a powder. Psychological and behavioral changes resulting from use include over-stimulation, hallucinations, irritability, sexual dysfunction, psychotic behavior, social isolation, and memory problems. An overdose produces convulsions and delirium and may result in death. “Crack” is a refined cocaine derivative which is highly addictive, sometimes proving fatal even to occasional users.

Amphetamines – Patterns of use and effects are similar to cocaine.

Severe intoxication may produce confusion, rambling or incoherent speech, anxiety, psychotic behavior, ringing in the ears, hallucinations, and irreversible brain damage. Intense fatigue and depression can lead to suicide. Large doses may result in convulsions and death from cardiac or respiratory arrest.

Hallucinogens or Psychedelics – These include LSD, mescaline, peyote, phencyclidine (PCP or “angel dust”), and psilocybin (found in “mushrooms” or “magic mushrooms”). Use distorts one’s perception of surroundings, causes bizarre mood changes, and results in visual hallucinations. Discontinuing use may cause “flashbacks.” Suicide is not uncommon.

Solvent Inhalants (e.g. glue, lacquers, plastic cement) – Fumes from these substances cause problems similar to alcohol. Incidents of hallucinations and permanent brain damage are more frequent.

Damage From Intravenous Drug Use – In addition to the adverse effects of specific drugs, intravenous drug users can develop AIDS, hepatitis, tetanus (lock jaw), and infections in the heart. Permanent brain damage may also be a result.

UNIVERSITY PENALTIES

Students – The university will impose a minimum disciplinary penalty of suspension for a specified period of time or suspension of rights and privileges, or both, for conduct related to the use, possession, or distribution of drugs that are prohibited by law. Other penalties may be imposed for conduct associated with illegal drug use, including disciplinary probation, payment for damage to property, suspension of rights and privileges, suspension from the university for a specified period of time, expulsion, or other penalties.

Employees – Unlawful use, possession, or distribution of drugs or alcohol will result in disciplinary penalties, including demotion, suspension without pay, or termination, depending upon the circumstances.

Drug & Alcohol Counseling & Rehabilitation Services

Students or employees of the university who have questions or concerns related to alcohol or substance abuse are encouraged to consult with members of the staff who are expert in the areas of counseling and referral.

Among those individuals are:

• TLU Student Health & Wellness Center
  Hahn Annex, 830-372-8067
• Campus Pastor
  Alumni Student Center, 830-372-8160
• Counseling Services
  Student Health & Wellness Center, 830-372-8009
• Dean of Student Affairs
  Alumni Student Center, 830-372-8060
• University Police
  1204 W. Court St., 830-372-8199

Referral to local physicians, counseling psychologists, and rehabilitation centers is also available whenever necessary.

Student Life: What We Do Now

• Online alcohol assessment instrument – through student portal, advertised during Mental Health Awareness Week
• Health 101 digital newsletter
• Training for Intervention Procedures (TIPS)
• Alcohol and Sexual Assault Awareness Training
• Educational sanctioning
• Alcohol Awareness Week
• Safe Spring Break
• Law enforcement on campus
• Alcohol policies outlined in the Student Handbook
• NCAA programming each semester for athletes
• Brochure racks in residence halls with information about various alcohol topics

Learning Objectives: Students will learn how to say no to alcohol. Students will learn connection between alcohol and sexual assault. Students will learn about party safety and date rape drugs.

Zero Tolerance

The Texas Lutheran University has a “Zero Tolerance” drug policy. The possession, sale, or manufacture and distribution of any controlled substance are illegal under both state and federal law. Texas Lutheran University Police Department is primarily responsible for enforcement of the drug laws on campus. Violators are subject to criminal prosecution, fine and imprisonment, and Texas Lutheran University disciplinary action.

Penalties Under State & Federal Law

I. Texas Law

* Blood Alcohol Concentration (.08 BAC)

II. Federal Law

Criminal Activity - Off Campus

The Texas Lutheran University Police Department works closely with off-campus law enforcement agencies, such as local, state and federal. Many commuter students reside in Seguin or Guadalupe County. Texas Lutheran University operates two off-campus housing facilities in the city of Seguin. The Seguin Police Department would have primary jurisdiction on crimes occurring there. The Texas Lutheran University Police Department would be the secondary agency to assist. Texas Lutheran University Police Department also works closely with Seguin Fire/EMS services and Air Life ambulance service.

• Texas Lutheran University is located .8 miles from the Seguin Police Department at 350 N. Guadalupe St.
• Texas Lutheran University is located .5 mile from the Seguin Fire Station on Hwy 46 South.
• Texas Lutheran University is a designated alternative landing zone (“LZ”) for Air Life (helicopter) Ambulance Service.
• Crime Statistics for the State of Texas and other matters may be accessed at: www.txdps.state.tx.us/crimereports/citindex.htm.
• Crime Statistics for the City of Seguin may be accessed at: http://www.ci.seguin.tx.us.

Security Awareness Programs

The Texas Lutheran University presents crime prevention programs in an “ongoing” basis mode. A speaker, usually an officer, presents tips on personal safety and date/rape and sexual assault topics. GHB/Rohypnol and other date rape drugs are discussed. Alcohol is present a large percentage of the time in sexual assault cases. This is thoroughly presented. The Texas Lutheran University Police Department and the TLU Student Health & Wellness Center provide pamphlets and brochures addressing many crime prevention topics including date rape/acquaintance rape and personal safety tips. The Texas Lutheran University Campus Life personnel, such as a residence assistant, provide written information and programs in housing areas. This is usually done each semester.

Sexual Assault

Texas Lutheran University Police Department is a member of Guadalupe County sexual assault response team, comprised of all surrounding agencies. Texas Lutheran University offers informational programs on the issue of sexual assault (including rape or acquaintance rape) through its Campus Life, Police, Student Affairs, and Center for Women’s Studies programs. All students should alert themselves to the dangers, preventative measures, and responses needed to sexual assault.

Definitions

Broadly defined, sexual offenses include any sexual act directed against another person, forcibly and/or without that person’s consent; or where the victim is incapable of giving consent.

Consent

The burden of obtaining consent is on the party seeking to initiate a sexual encounter. Affirmative consent is required, either verbally, or by voluntary acts unmistakable in their meaning. This definition also covers incidents in which a victim was incapable of giving legal consent, which is not the same as factual consent as people may be able to give factual consent as a result of the use of alcohol, drugs or rape drugs, but not be legally capable of so doing.

TLU's Anti-Harassment and Sexual Misconduct Policies are detailed in the Student Handbook available on MyTLU.

Procedures To Follow

The Director of the Counseling Center is the initial contact person for the TLU Campus.

Self Care & Safety

After an assault, the survivor may be in a state of shock. Although the first reaction will be to bathe or shower, DO NOT. Instead, the survivor is advised to wrap in something warm, such as a blanket or coat. Staying warm, instead of cleaning up right away, will accomplish two important things:

1. It will help in recovering from the shock.
2. It is less likely that the evidence will be disturbed or destroyed if the survivor decides to prosecute.

It is extremely important that survivors:

DO

• get to a safe place
• call the police for help
• lock doors and windows
• keep warm
• get medical attention
• write down all they can remember
• take a change of clothing with them to the hospital or sexual assault center. If they must change their clothes, put them in a paper bag to give to the Police (plastic destroys evidence)

DO NOT

• shower or bathe
• brush or comb hair
• douche
• urinate (if possible)
• change clothes
• eat or drink anything
• brush or rinse teeth or smoke
• touch things at the crime scene

What To Do

• Call Someone: Survivors are advised to call someone for support immediately. Survivors react to sexual assault in different ways: some are upset, some are angry and some are very calm and controlled. Whatever the reaction, one may make better decisions by talking to a trusted friend or relative, or someone who is professionally trained to deal with sexual assault. In addition, this person can serve as a vital source of emotional support.
• Seek Medical Attention: It is very important that the survivor seek medical attention as soon as possible after a sexual assault. A medical exam is important for two reasons: (1) it ensures that the survivor receives the appropriate medical treatment, and (2) it is essential in the collection of physical evidence if the survivor decides to prosecute.
• Call Seguin Police, 911, or TLU Police: The Texas Lutheran University Police Department is a full-service legislated police agency that serves students, faculty, staff, and visitors within its jurisdiction. Students are encouraged to report any sexual assault, including acquaintance rape, to the University Police and/or Seguin Police, taking care to preserve all relevant evidence. The safety and well-being of sexual offense survivors is the primary concern of the Police. Normally, the Police will conduct a criminal investigation, and report the findings of that investigation to the State’s Attorney. University Police officials can also assist sexual assault survivors in notifying other law enforcement authorities, as appropriate.
• Under Texas Law the victim of a sexual assault may choose to use a pseudonym (a fictitious name).
• Under Texas Law the victim of a sexual assault is entitled to the Crime Victims Compensation Act.

State of Texas Registry Of Convicted Sex Offenders

Information pertaining to any convicted sex offender attending Texas Lutheran University or employed at Texas Lutheran University may be accessed at the Texas Lutheran University Police Department.

Accessing Support Services

If you are seeking health, spiritual, psychological support services or want to ask questions without filing a complaint at this time, contact Counseling Services, Campus Nurse, or Campus Pastor.

If you consult a medical or mental health provider in a patient context, your name and information that you share will remain confidential and will not be disclosed to any other University office or the police without your permission, unless there is a risk of danger to yourself or another, child and elder abuse or neglect, or if there is a court-ordered subpoena.

In addition, TLU Counseling Services may provide referral information for:

• medical attention and off-campus support services
• filing a report to the police and/or to the Dean of Students Office
• housing or academic concerns

Contact:

• Visit MyTLU for more resources or email Counseling Director, Sarah Westerfield, LPC-S
• TLU Student Health & Wellness Center, Hahn Annex, 830-372-8067
• Campus Conduct Hotline, 866-943-5787
• Title IX Office, 830-372-6327, titleix@tlu.edu

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 is a federal law that prohibits sex discrimination in education. Sex discrimination includes sexual harassment and sexual assault. For more information about Title IX, Coordinators, Deputy Coordinators/Investigators and full contact information, visit tlu.edu/titleix.

Filing A Complaint

To file a complaint or report an alleged act of sexual misconduct, report the incident to the Dean of Students office.

We will invite you to participate in a preliminary conference and provide a written statement describing the incident and the names of any witnesses who can support your statement. The information you provide will help us determine if further action should be pursued.

It is the legal duty of TLU to determine what occurred and take appropriate steps to resolve the situation. We will respect your wishes regarding further involvement in our investigation. Please be aware, if you decline to participate, our ability to respond will be limited.

If you discuss an alleged sexual misconduct incident with any university employee other than the counselors at Counseling Services of health providers at Health & Wellness Services, the employee is required to report the incident to the TLU Title IX Coordinator, which will lead to an investigation as described above.

Who You Can Talk To At TLU About Sexual Misconduct

Understanding the Sexual Misconduct Complaint Process