DPS Services & Prevention

The Department of Public Safety (DPS) provides numerous services to the University community to help keep everyone safe and secure. Review the resources here, and if you have any questions, please call DPS at 313-993-1234.

DPS Services

  • Auto battery jump-starts
  • Campus escort services
  • Educational programs
  • Security surveys
  • Emergency services
  • Operation identification
  • Conditional temporary parking
  • Vehicle lockouts

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    Parking Policies and Procedures

    PARKING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR STUDENT, FACULTY/STAFF AND VISITORS

    PARKING & ID LOCATION

    The Parking & ID desk is located in the Student Life Office.

    DETROIT MERCY VEHICLE PERMIT REGISTRATION

    A. The University requires vehicle registration with University of Detroit Mercy of any vehicle owned or operated by a student, faculty, staff member or visitor when such vehicle is parked on any property owned by the University.

    B. Motor vehicles parked on University owned or leased property must be registered with the appropriate state or government agency and display that current license plate and registration. If this is missing, the vehicle will be listed as abandoned and may be towed within 48 hours at the owner's expense.

    C. Registration of a vehicle is complete only after the Detroit Mercy parking permit is properly obtained and displayed while parked on campus.

    D. Replacement - All replacement permits will be $10.

    E. The University is not responsible for any theft or damage while your vehicle is on the University premises. The University does not assume custody or control of any motor vehicle.

    STUDENT

    A. A complete registration form is required when registering. The following information must be supplied:

    a. Valid state vehicle registration

    b. Valid vehicle insurance

    c. Valid driver's license

    d. Printout of your class schedule or view electronic schedule

    B. New students shall register their vehicle within the first ten business days of the semester (grace period).
    C. The hanging parking permit is transferable to all properly registered vehicles driven by the student. This permit will be validated on a yearly basis; you must be a current registered student.

    FACULTY/STAFF

    Parking permits are valid from Aug. 1 to July 31. They must be validated yearly. Contract workers may purchase a yearly permit; this permit is valid Sept. 1 to Aug. 31. A parking fee is assessed by Human Resources and deducted by payroll for all full-time and part-time employees.

    A complete registration form is required when registering. The following information must be supplied:

    a. Valid state vehicle registration
    b. Valid vehicle insurance
    c. Valid driver's license
    d. Employee ID or letter (department)

    If you receive a Lot A permit it, allows you to park in that lot but does not guarantee that space will be available. If no appropriately marked spaces are available, you must go to another parking lot. Do not park outside marked parking stalls. Do not park in the fire lanes or in spaces marked for University vehicles. If you violate these regulations, you will be ticketed and/or towed at owner’s expense. If you continue to receive tickets for violating the Lot A regulations, you will lose the privilege of parking in this area.
    The hanging parking permit is transferable to all properly registered vehicles driven by the faculty/staff member. This permit will be validated on a yearly basis; you must be a current faculty/staff member.

    PERMIT LOCATION

    A. Hanging permits shall be hung from the rearview mirror with the permit number visible at all times when your car is parked on campus. When vehicle is in motion the permit should be removed.
    B. Daily permits shall be hung from the rearview mirror with the date visible through the windshield at all times when your car is parked on campus. When vehicle is in motion the permit should be removed.
    C. Extended visitor or contractor permits shall be placed on the dashboard visible through the driver's side windshield.

    PARKING AND ROADWAY

    GENERAL PARKING AND ROADWAY INFORMATION

    A. All motor vehicles must be operated and equipped in accordance with the provision of the traffic laws as written in the Michigan Vehicle Code and Ordinances of the City of Detroit.
    B. Vehicles shall be permitted to park in designated parking areas only.
    C. All vehicles will observe the posted speed limits and will come to a full stop at all stop signs and crosswalks when occupied with a pedestrian. In the absence of posted speed limit, the speed shall not exceed 15 mph.
    D. All motor vehicle accidents on campus should be reported immediately to the Department of Public Safety for investigation at 313-993-1234.
    E. Owners of motor vehicles are required to remove vehicles from campus during vacation periods unless their vehicle is properly registered with the Department of Public Safety by calling 313-993-1235 Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and displaying a current permit. Vehicles without the proper authorization may be towed at the owner's expense.
    F. Loading and unloading zones and driveways are restricted to vehicles that have loading and unloading permits, maintenance vehicles and emergency vehicles. Vehicles blocking those areas may be towed at the owner’s expense. Loading and unloading permits are issued to maintenance vehicles and emergency service vehicles by contacting 313-993-1235 Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

    VISITOR PARKING

    A. A visitor is considered a person who is not a registered student or faculty/staff member and is subject to all regulations.
    B. For information concerning visitor parking, contact the Department of Public Safety at 313-993-1234.

    OVERNIGHT PARKING FOR NON·RESIDENTS

    A. Non-resident students who plan to leave their vehicle on any campus overnight must register with the Department of Public Safety at 313-993-1235 Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

    ACCESSIBLE AND RESERVED PARKING

    A. All vehicles parked in designated handicap spaces must have a visible handicap permit or license plate issued for the operator by the state.
    B. If a temporary handicap permit is needed, the request will be considered on a case by case basis by the chief/director of the Department of Public Safety. Please contact the Department of Public Safety at 313-993-1235 Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or visit their office at the east end of the Student Union.

    EMERGENCIES/SPECIAL EVENTS

    A. Should special circumstances warrant, the chief/director of the Department of Public Safety may adopt additional regulations.

    B. If a vehicle becomes disabled at any time, the driver should contact the Department of Public Safety at 313-993-1234. Failure to contact and make arrangements with Public Safety will result in ticketing and/or towing the vehicle at the owner's expense. In the event that a vehicle needs to be privately towed, the owner must be present with the tow truck driver at time of tow.

    PARKING LOT LOCATIONS AND RESTRICTIONS

    A. Corktown Campus

    Lot K
    Patient Parking: Monday-Friday 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
    Lot L
    Overflow Parking: General parking.
    Lot M
    Faculty/Staff Parking: Monday–Friday 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, closed.
    Lot N
    Student Parking: Monday–Friday, 6 a.m. to 10:50 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, closed.
    Closures, modified schedule and summer hours may differ. If you have any questions regarding the hours, call the Department of Public Safety at 313-993-1234.

    B. Riverfront Campus

    Lot J (Larned Street Lot)
    Student Parking: Located across from the Law School. Hours during the school year are normally:
    Monday-Thursday 7 a.m. to 10:50 p.m.; Friday 7 a.m. to 5:50 p.m.
    Saturday 10 a.m. to 5:50 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. to 5:50 p.m.
    Violators will be subject to a citation, fine and/or may be towed at the owner’s expense.
    Closures, modified schedule and summer hours may differ. If you have any questions regarding the hours, call the Department of Public Safety at 313-993-1234.

    C. McNichols Campus

    Lot A
    Faculty/Staff Parking only: from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Parking is allowed for students and visitors during non-business hours only. Located on the north of the Fisher Building and south of the Loranger Architecture Building.
    Lot B
    Visitor: first two rows south of the Livernois entrance and west of Kassab Mall; Faculty/staff: north section west of Holden Hall; General Parking: south section, located west of Reno Hall.
    Lot C
    Faculty/Staff Parking: 24 hours a day and seven days a week.
    Lot D
    General Parking, unless otherwise posted: located east of the Quads and south of Shiple Residence Hall.

    Lot E
    Faculty/Staff Parking only: from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Friday.
    Lot F
    Southwest portion, first six rows: faculty/staff only: from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday-Friday. All other areas of the lot: general parking unless otherwise posted, Monday-Sunday.
    Lot F VIP
    North of Calihan Hall closed during special events. No overnight parking.
    Lot G
    Faculty/Staff Parking only: from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday-Friday.
    Lot H
    General Parking: Located west of Calihan Hall. Closed during special events. No overnight parking.
    Lot I
    General Parking: Located north of the Fitness Center.

    ENFORCEMENT

    All parking and traffic rules and regulations are in effect 24 hours a day and seven days a week, including holidays and periods when school is not in session, or unless otherwise indicated by traffic control devices. The Department of Public Safety officer will place the citation(s) on the vehicle’s windshield under the wiper blade or on the driver’s side door window. This will constitute legal delivery of the citation to the vehicle’s operator. Non-receipt of an issued citation does not invalidate the citation.

    A. Violations of any University of Detroit Mercy or City of Detroit parking or traffic regulations may result in issuance of a University of Detroit Mercy or City of Detroit citation.

    B. University of Detroit Mercy citations may be settled in person or by mail. Payment must be made at the Student Accounting Office. If payment is made in person within 24 hours, the ticket fine is 50% of total cost. The 50% reduction does not include fees assessed for towing and/or booting. City of Detroit Citations must be settled through the City of Detroit (instructions are on the back of ticket).

    C. When a University of Detroit Mercy citation is issued, the recipient has 24 hours to pay and reduce the fine by 50% or 10 business days to pay or appeal the citation. Appeal forms are available at the Department of Public Safety or on the Department of Public Safety website. Failure to pay or appeal within ten business days will result in a registration hold being placed on the student's account. If payment is 30 days overdue the account may receive additional fines and sent to the Student Accounting Office for payment. Students may check on their fine status by visiting the Department of Public Safety Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or calling (313) 993-1235. Students may also check their Banner account if all fines have been applied.

    D. The Appeal Board holds four appeals hearings each year. Members of the Appeals Board consist of the following

    a. Chief/director of the Department of Public Safety
    b. Corktown representative
    c. Law School representative
    d. McNichols representative
    e. Student Life representative

    E. Altering and duplicating a permit may result in suspending or revoking a permit and its privileges.

    F. A person who parks in violation of any law, ordinance or regulation and does not receive a violation notice does not mean that the law, ordinance or regulation is no longer in effect.

    G. The amount of time a vehicle is parked in violation (i.e., five minutes) does not warrant the vehicle not being cited.

    H. The operation of a motor vehicle on University of Detroit Mercy property is a privilege and not a right. Repeated or serious violations of safety or parking regulation may result in revocation of the parking privilege.

    I. All vehicles must be operated in a safe manner at all times. Pedestrians have the right of way over vehicles in all circumstances.

    The University reserves the right to remove the following from campus:

    A. Any vehicle that is parked in such a manner as to constitute a hazard or that impedes vehicular or emergency equipment, or the making of essential repairs and/or deliveries.
    B. Any vehicle with an unauthorized or altered parking permit or decal.
    C. Vehicles repeatedly found on campus without a valid University parking permit. In these instances, removal shall be made regardless of the knowledge that said vehicle belongs to or is operated by a person eligible for University parking permit privileges.
    D. Any vehicle, registered or unregistered, which because of its physical condition is deemed a safety hazard to other vehicles and/or pedestrians.
    E. All abandoned vehicles.

    VIOLATIONS & PENALTIES

    VIOLATIONS ANNOTATED WITH "*" ARE IMPOUNDABLE / IMMOBILIZATION OFFENSES

    CARELESS DRIVING:

    Person who operates a vehicle including an area designated for the parking of vehicles and commits (2) two driving violations $90 fine

    DISREGARD STOP SIGN:

    Failing to come to a complete stop at a posted stop sign $40 fine

    EXCEEDING POSTED SPEED LIMIT:

    Driving at speeds over the posted speed limits or non-posted campus speed limit of 15 mph $40 fine

    DRIVING WRONG WAY ON A ONE-WAY:

    Driving a vehicle in an opposite or different direction on a University parking aisle, street or alley than the direction indicated on posted signs or ground marking as the proper direction of traffic movement. $30 fine

    FAILURE TO SIGNAL:

    Failure of operator of a motor vehicle to use a turn signal prior to making a lane change or turn. $30 fine

    IMPEDING TRAFFIC:

    A person, not otherwise authorized, blocks, impedes or slows the normal traffic by barricade, object or device, or with his or her person $30 fine

    PARKED IN HANDICAPPED:

    Parking in a parking space designated for persons with disabilities without displaying a state issued handicap placard, license plate or a disabled veteran license plate. $100 fine*

    FIRE LANE VIOLATION:

    Parking in a manner in which any part of the vehicle is in a designated fire lane, even if only for a short period of time. $80 fine*

    UNAUTHORIZED PARKING:

    Unauthorized use of a University parking lot. $30 fine

    NO PARKING ZONE:

    Parking in an area designated as “no parking” by traffic control devices or ground marking. $30 fine*

    DOUBLE PARKED:

    A vehicle parked on the roadway side of a vehicle stopped curbside. $30 fine

    CHARGING STATION/LOCATION-PROHIBITED:

    Vehicles parked in charging station locations longer than the posted time limit, non-chargeable vehicles or chargeable vehicles parked and not charging $30 fine

    DAMAGED GATE ARM:

    Intentional or unintentional damage to a controlling gate arm through neglect or violating procedures, $250 fine, and additional fees may apply

    DISPLAYING AN EXPIRED PERMIT:

    $10 fine

    DISPLAY/USE OF STOLEN, REVOKED, REPRODUCED, OR ALTERED PERMIT/ACCESS CARD:

    Any vehicle displaying or using a Detroit Mercy parking permit that has been reported stolen, has been revoked by Parking and ID or appears to have been reproduced or altered in any way. $100 fine*

    DISREGARDING TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICE / GATE ATTENDANT:

    Any motor vehicle or bicycle that, for any reason, disregards any traffic control device or attendant’s instructions. $40 fine

    EXCEEDING POSTED TIME LIMIT:

    Exceeding posted time limit. $30 fine

    FAILURE TO DISPLAY A PERMIT:

    Parking in any space, area or lot that requires a specific type of permit to be displayed. This includes, but is not limited to, restricted lots, general lots (of whether the automated gates are operating or not), service vehicle spaces, patient spaces or any area requiring special authorization and/or permit. $30 fine

    IMMOBILIZATION FEE (SCOOTER):

    Fee assessed in conjunction with the immobilization of a scooter or moped $20 fine

    IMPOUND FEE (BICYCLE):

    Fee assessed in conjunction with the impounding of a bicycle. $30 Fine

    IMPROPER OPERATION OF RECREATIONAL DEVICE:

    The operator of a bicycle, skateboard or any device propelled by human power that is engaged in operations deemed unsafe or is prohibited on University property. $30 fine

    IMPROPER USE OF PERMIT:

    Use of an otherwise valid permit to park in a manner inconsistent with University policies in a University controlled parking area. $30 fine

    LOADING ZONE VIOLATION:

    Parking in a loading zone area for purposes other than loading and unloading or in excess of the designated time limit or if undesignated, a 10-minute limit. $30 fine*

    OBSTRUCTING DISABILITY ACCESS:

    Parking in such a manner as to block Disability access points in such a way as to limit the free movement of mobility impaired pedestrians. $100 fine*

    PARKING IN UNDESIGNATED AREA:

    Parking in an area that is not designated as a parking lot and/or is not a marked parking space. $30 fine

    PARKING OUTSIDE LINES OF A STALL:

    When any portion of a vehicle is outside a marked parking stall or boundary. $20 fine

    PERMIT IMPROPERLY DISPLAYED:

    Failure to properly affix permit designed and intended to be displayed hanging from rearview mirror. $20 fine

    PERMIT NOT VALID FOR LOCATION:

    A valid University of Detroit Mercy permit is displayed but is not valid in that lot or location. $30 fine

    VEHICLE BLOCKING TRASH DUMPSTER:

    Motor vehicle is parked in such a way as to prohibit access to any trash dumpster at any time. $30 fine*

    VEHICLE IN DRIVE OR THOROUGHFARE:

    Parking in or obstructing any portion of a drive or thoroughfare intended for vehicular/pedestrian traffic. $30 fine*

    VEHICLE ON BRICK PAVERS/WALKWAY:

    When any portion of an unauthorized vehicle is driven or parked on any portion of brick pavers/walkways, except properly permitted Detroit Mercy Facilities vehicles, Public Safety vehicles or other vehicles as permitted by the Department of Public Safety in the course of official University business. $100 fine* plus the repair costs to the brick(s) may be assessed to the violator

    VEHICLE ON LAWN OR LANDSCAPING:

    Parking or driving on any landscaped area not intended for normal use by vehicular travel. $30 fine*

    IMMOBILIZATION FEE (VEHICLE):

    Fee assessed in conjunction with the immobilization of a vehicle $50 fee

    ON-CAMPUS TOW FEE:

    Fee assessed in conjunction with vehicle being relocated on campus $95 fee

    VEHICLE IMPOUNDMENT: Fees assessed to vehicle’s owner as set forth in the current contract between University of Detroit Mercy and Wayne’s Towing.

    DENIAL OR REVOCATION OF PRIVILEGES

    Parking privileges may be denied or revoked for the following reasons:

    A. Non-payment of five or more outstanding parking/roadway violations;
    B. Unpaid parking violations totaling $100 or more;
    C. Failure to pay applicable permit fees,
    D. Falsification of permit application information;
    E. Counterfeiting, defacing or altering any University parking permit;
    F. Displaying, using or allowing others to use or display a University parking permit or gate access card which has been reported lost or stolen;
    G. Intentional damage to/or removal of University property;
    H. Reckless (misdemeanor) or careless driving ($90 fine).

    COLLECTING UNPAID CITATIONS

    The University may employ all legal means to collect outstanding or unpaid citations, including but not limited to registration, transcript and diploma holds, employee disciplinary action and garnishment of wages, vehicle tire immobilization (booting), vehicle towing from University property, as well as collection by private collection agencies. All individuals using University parking facilities may be held responsible for parking fines on vehicles registered to family members.

    VEHICLE TIRE IMMOBILIZATION/TOWING

    Vehicles may be towed or immobilized (booted) for any of the above annotated “*” reasons or the following reasons:

    a. *Obstruction of University business.
    b. *Non-payment of four or more outstanding parking violations.
    c. *Identification of vehicle owner.
    d. *Parked in a reserved parking space or in a designated handicap parking space without displaying the proper placard or plate designation.
    e. *Unsatisfactory payment of parking permits or citations (i.e., returned checks, non-compliance of citation payment agreement, having excessive balances owed).

    Boots will be removed upon payment of a $50 boot fee AND all outstanding fines. Vehicles left booted for an excessive amount of time are subject to towing and will be moved to a designated storage facility of the contract towing company's choice. The vehicle owner or operator will be responsible for all applicable towing charges.
    Vehicle owners or operators may pay for the boot removal and applicable fines at University of Detroit Mercy Student Accounting Office located at 4001 W. McNichols Rd., Fisher Administration Building, Detroit MI, 48221, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. For after-hours boot release of vehicles, please contact the Detroit Mercy Department of Public Safety at 313-993-1234.
    University of Detroit Mercy contracts towing services through Wayne’s Towing, located at 20495 Sherwood St, Detroit, MI 48234, phone number 313-368-3254. All vehicles towed off campus are at the owner’s expense.

    PAYMENT / APPEALING / VOIDING VIOLATIONS

    PAYMENT PROCESS

    Payments must be made at the University of Detroit Mercy Student Accounting Office, located at 4001 W. McNichols Rd., Fisher Administration Building, Detroit MI, 48221. The Student Accounting Office requires the citation number when paying the associated fine(s). Payments must be received in the Student Accounting Office or an appeal filed with the Department of Public Safety within 10 days of the issuance of the violation.

    APPEAL PROCESS

    Filing an appeal to the Department of Public Safety:
    An appeal form may be obtained here or at any one of the three below Department of Public Safety locations:
    McNichols Campus – Department of Public Safety Office, located at the southwest corner of the Student Center Building
    Corktown Campus – Department of Public Safety Control Center, located at the lobby of the Corktown Campus
    Riverfront Campus – Department of Public Safety Gate, located at the entrance to the Larned Street Parking Lot J

    Along with any supporting documentation, a copy of the violation must be submitted and attached to the appeal. Appeals submitted by mail must be postmarked within 10 days of issuance to the University of Detroit Mercy, Department of Public Safety, 4001 W. McNichols Road, Student Center Building, Detroit MI, 48221. The Ticket Appeals Board meets quarterly throughout the year. Denied appeals result in the full fees being assessed to the owner or operator. Approved appeals result in the Violation being reduced to a Warning and associated fees waived. A decision will be made by the Detroit Mercy Ticket Appeals Board and notifications will be made within 30 days after the quarterly meeting.

    HOLD REMOVAL PROCESS

    The Department of Public Safety must receive notification from the Student Accounting Office (SAO) when payments have been made. When making a payment to remove a hold, request SAO to notify Public Safety. Removal of holds from accounts may take up to 48 hours of notification.

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    Campus Escorts

    Much like your municipal police department, Detroit Public Safety Department provides the same services you expect from your hometown police department, plus a wide range of other campus specific services. 

    It is our hope that you will protect your property and yourself by remembering these safety tips and calling for a campus escort if you have concerns about walking to your destination. When you can’t use the buddy system, a campus escort is available to students and employees.

    Requesting a campus escort:

    1. Call the Public Safety 24-hour Control Center at 313-993-1234.
    2. Be specific about your location when you call.
    3. If you’re experiencing a problem tell us immediately.
    4. A Public Safety officer will be dispatched to accompany you to a parking lot or nearby location. 
    5. Remain in a well-lit location of safety.
    6. Ask for the approximate arrival time.
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    Vehicle Etching

    What is Etching?

    It is the permanent marking of your vehicle's glass with the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) in order to discourage thefts.

    What good will it do?

    Thieves steal vehicles in order to make easy money by either quickly selling parts stripped off the vehicle or by selling the entire vehicle. A vehicle with etched glass costs the thieves money because it has to be removed, disposed of and replaced before the vehicle is sold. As a result, thieves learn to not steal etched vehicles. In short, etching your vehicle is a good theft prevention measure.

    Will it damage the windows?

    No. The process only affects the outer most layer of glass. This will in no way damage your windows or make them weaker.

    Will it alter my car's appearance?

    No. The numbering is only 1/4-by-2 inches. The numbering has a white color that can be seen within a few feet of your vehicle. Thieves and police officers know where to look for the etching, but the casual passer-by will not notice.

    How long does it take?

    It should only take 10 minutes. The vehicle owner must complete a registration form and have staff create the stencils. The owner may park their vehicle anywhere, but the windows must be completely closed.

    How much does it cost?

    Although some car dealerships and glass companies will provide etching for a fee of up to $250, Michigan Auto Theft Prevention Authority is providing this service free of charge. It's our hope that the program will decrease the number of vehicle thefts and make you feel more secure.

    What are other additional benefits of VIN etching?

    • By having your vehicle etched, you may qualify for a discount on the comprehensive coverage of your auto insurance premium.
    • It is an economical way of auto theft prevention. It is free.
    • Etched vehicle windows provide traceable numbers in case of theft.
    • Makes your car less attractive to the car thieves. Instead of making money on your vehicle, the thief has to spend money to remove and dispose of the etched windows.
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    Lost & Found

    For LOST items

    The Department of Public Safety is the central Lost & Found for Detroit Mercy. If you have lost an item, please call 313-993-1234 or stop by the office. 

    For FOUND items

    For any items you have found, please bring them to the Public Safety Office located in the Student Center for McNichols Campus, the Clinic Building for Dental School, and at the Parking Lot Booth for Law School. In addition to your name, you will be asked to provide the date, time and location of the found item.

    DPS attempts to contact the owner of the found item if at all possible, especially for valuable items.

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    Public Safety Seminars

    Although students play a big role in campus safety, the Public Safety Department is responsible for educating students about proper safety precautions. The Public Safety Department and the Detroit Police Department Crime Prevention Section provide a number of educational and crime prevention programs each year, including the following:

    • Alcohol and drug abuse prevention
    • Auto theft seminars
    • Campus crime watch programs
    • Self protection seminars
    • Sexual assault seminars

Prevention Resources

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    What Students Should Do To Stay Safe

    The cooperation and involvement of students in a campus safety program is absolutely necessary. As they become independent adults, students must assume responsibility for their own personal safety and the security of their belongings. The following precautions are a good start:

    • Doors should be locked when rooms are unoccupied.
    • Valuables such as stereos, cameras and televisions should be marked with engravers provided by Public Safety.
    • Bicycles must be registered with Public Safety and should be secured with a sturdy lock.
    • Vehicles must be parked in assigned areas and locked at all times.
    • Valuables left in a car should be locked in the trunk, out of sight.
    • Individuals should walk in well-lit areas and use the buddy system or the campus escort service.
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    Sexual Assault Prevention

    Statement of Purpose

    The first step of educating the community in the fight against sexual assault is to show the public how the criminal sexual conduct law works to protect them. The University of Detroit Mercy Department of Public Safety has provided University resources and several local agencies that offer educational programs which provide techniques to avoid sexual assault and date rape. Download the Sexual Assault policy here.

    Prevention programs and prompt reporting of sexual assault are essential to help keep the University community safe from these often traumatic incidents. Sexual assault education also helps to encourage those that have been victimized to report the offense.

    Policy

    If you are a victim of a sexual assault at Detroit, your first priority is to get to a place of safety. You should then obtain the necessary medical treatment. Detroit Mercy's Department of Public Safety strongly advocates that a victim of sexual assault report the incident in a timely manner. Time is a critical factor for evidence collection and preservation. An assault should be reported directly to a Detroit Mercy officer and/or to a Housing and Residential Education representative. Filing a police report with a Detroit Mercy officer will not obligate the victim to prosecute, nor will it subject the victim to scrutiny or judgmental opinions from officers. Filing a police report will:

    • Ensure that a victim of sexual assault receives the necessary medical treatment and test, at no expense to the victim
    • Provide the opportunity for collection of evidence helpful in prosecution which may not be obtained later (ideally a victim of sexual assault should not wash, douche, use the toilet, or change clothing prior to a medical/legal exam)
    • Assure the victim has access to free confidential counseling from counselors specifically trained in the area of sexual assault crisis intervention.

    When a sexual assault victim contacts the Department of Public Safety, the Detroit Police Department Sex Crimes Unit will be notified as well. The dean of Students shall be notified of student related incidents.

    Agencies and Resources

    Personal Counseling On Campus
    To schedule an appointment for Detroit Mercy personal counseling, call during business hours Monday-Friday 8:30am to 5:00pm or email personalcounselingwc@udmercy.edu.

    McNichols Campus: Personal Counseling Services for McNichols campus, School of Law, and Novi
                                  4001 W. McNichols Road, Detroit, MI
                                  313- 993-1562
                                  personalcounselingwc@udmercy.edu 

    School of Dentistry:  Bailey Andersen, LMSW
                                         DC 425
                                         313-494-6938
                                         anderstb@udmercy.edu          

    Detroit Police Department Sex Crime Unit Rape Counseling Center

    • 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.
    • 313-833-1660

    Detroit Police Department Police Community Services Unit

    • 313-596-2520

    Interim House Y.W.C.A. of Metropolitan Detroit - Domestic Violence

    • P.O. Box 21904, Detroit, Mich. 48221
    • 24-Hour Crisis Line 313-861-5300
    • ywcaih@aol.com

    First Step Western Wayne County Project on Domestic and Sexual Violence

    • 26650 Eureka Road, Taylor, Mich. 48180
    • 1-888-453-5900

    If you need additional emotional assistance because you are a secondary victim (i.e. parent, friend) of a sexual assault victim, you may call any of the listed crisis lines 24-hours a day for support or additional referrals:

    Interim House 

    • 313-861-5300

    First Step 

    • 1-888-453-4900 (toll free)
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    Policy Prohibiting Sex and Gender-based Discrimination and Harassment

    Statement of Purpose

    University of Detroit Mercy is committed to promoting an environment which supports its educational mission and Jesuit and Mercy traditions. In addition, the University seeks to create a climate which preserves the safety and dignity of its members. In particular, the University views, with the utmost seriousness, offenses against an individual such as stalking, sexual harassment, inappropriate sexual touching, sexual assault and any other form of non-consensual sexual activity.

    The University experience includes learning to make wise choices. The decision-making process can be a challenge and an opportunity for students, faculty and staff. At University of Detroit Mercy, choices are framed by an ethical and moral commitment to honesty, to the dignity of the individual and to responsibility to others.

    This policy addresses Sexual Misconduct. It provides information on the University’s prevention, education and resources related to dealing with sexual misconduct. Once made aware of potential sexual misconduct, this policy addresses how the University will proceed consistent with its institutional policies and values, its legal obligations under Title IX and other applicable state and federal laws.

    See Detroit Mercy's Title IX site for the University's sexual and gender-based harassment policy and resolution process, as well as the Title IX complaint form.

    Sexual Misconduct is unwanted conduct of a sexual nature that constitutes sexual harassment, sexual assault, relationship violence (including domestic violence and dating violence) or stalking, and includes related acts of retaliation.

    Prevention and Education

    The University sponsors a variety of educational programs that seek to raise awareness of sexual assault issues and maximize prevention and of such events, including other programs coordinated through the Office of the Dean of Students and Department of Public Safety, through collaborative efforts with all three campuses to prevent sexual misconduct through education, awareness and skill building.

    Title IX Coordinators and Deputy Title IX Coordinators

    University of Detroit Mercy has designated several employees to coordinate the University’s compliance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, including sexual harassment and sexual assault.

    See the Detroit Mercy Title IX website for a list of Title IX coordinators and deputy coordinators on each of the University's campuses.

    Reporting

    Individuals who believe that they have been subject to sexual misconduct may choose (a) to report the incident to the University so that appropriate action can be taken, including implementing procedures within the University's disciplinary procedures; (b) to report the incident to the Department of Public Safety and/or (c) to not report the incident. Reports may be made regardless of when the incident(s) occurred.

    Confidential Counseling

    Students and employees who are unsure about whether they want to report may contact a confidential counselor. Going to a confidential counselor does not foreclose the opportunity to make a report to the University or file a formal complaint at a later time. Confidential counselors can also help students and employees understand what reporting options are available and assist with the process if they choose to file a formal complaint.

    For all students (undergraduate, graduate, Law and Dental), the University's confidential counselors are:

    McNichols Campus Personal Counseling

    In-person and virtual counseling services for McNichols, School of Law and Novi campus

    Erika Budson, MA, LPC, NCC, ATR
    313-993-1545
    budsonel@udmercy.edu

    Marjorie Lang, JD, MA, LPC
    313-578-0496
    langma@udmercy.edu 

    Kevin May, MA, LPC, CAADC
    313-993-1562
    maykm1@udmercy.edu

    School of Dentistry
    Bailey Andersen, LMSW
    DC425
    313-494-6938
    anderstb@udmercy.edu 

    When reports are made to the Title IX Coordinator or a Title IX Deputy Coordinator, the University has the obligation to review all reports and respond appropriately. Whether or not to report is your choice. The Title IX Coordinators can assist you in filing a formal complaint.

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    Cyberstalking

    Cyberstalking is online stalking. It has been defined as the use of technology, particularly the Internet, to harass someone. Characteristics include false accusations, monitoring, threats, identity theft, and data destruction or manipulation. Cyberstalking also includes exploitation of minors, be it sexual or otherwise.

    The harassment can take on many forms, but the common denominator is that it's unwanted, often obsessive and usually illegal. Cyberstalkers use email, instant messages, phone calls and other communication devices to stalk, whether it takes the form of sexual harassment, inappropriate contact or just plain annoying attention to your life and your family's activities.

    Kids use the term "stalking" to describe following someone's activities via their social network. My own children accuse me of being their "stalker" for keeping tabs on their digital lives. It's important that we not devalue the serious nature of the crime of cyberstalking by using the term incorrectly. A recent television commercial for a major cellular provider depicts a young woman spying on her crush through his bedroom window while she monitors his online activities on her cell phone. While it's meant to be a humorous ad, it's extremely unsettling when stalking occurs in the real world.

    Interestingly, this same ad points to an important fact about cyberstalking; it is often perpetrated not by strangers, but by someone you know. It could be an ex, a former friend, or just someone who wants to bother you and your family in an inappropriate way.

    Avoidance Tips

    Here are a few important pointers to help you AVOID cyberstalking, whether it's directed at you, your PC, or your family:

    • Maintain vigilance over physical access to your computer and other Web-enabled devices like cell phones. Cyberstalkers use software and hardware devices (sometimes attached to the back of your PC without you even knowing) to monitor their victims.
    • Be sure you always log out of your computer programs when you step away from the computer and use a screensaver with a password. The same goes for passwords on cell phones. Your kids and your spouse should develop the same good habits.
    • Make sure to practice good password management and security. Never share your passwords with others. And be sure to change your passwords frequently! This is very important.
    • Do an online search for your name or your family members' now and then to see what's available about you and your kids online. Don't be shy about searching social networks (including your friends' and colleagues'), and be sure to remove anything private or inappropriate.
    • Delete or make private any online calendars or itineraries — even on your social network — where you list events you plan to attend. They could let a stalker know where you're planning to be and when.
    • Use the privacy settings in all your online accounts to limit your online sharing with those outside your trusted circle. You can use these settings to opt out of having your profile appear when someone searches for your name. You can block people from seeing your posts and photos, too.
    • If you suspect that someone is using spyware software to track your everyday activities and you feel as if you're in danger, only use public computers or telephones to seek help. Otherwise, your efforts to get help will be known to your cyberstalker and this may leave you in even greater danger.
    • As always, use good, updated security software to prevent someone from getting spyware onto your computer via a phishing attack or an infected Web page. Check the app store for your mobile devices to see what security software is available.
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    Dating Violence (TeLL)

    Truth Embraces Love without Lies (TeLL)

    What is Dating Violence?

    TeLL Truth Embraces Love Without Lies Tell the truth about dating violence

    Dating violence is the abuse of one partner in a dating relationship. Dating violence can happen to anyone, no matter gender, race or sexual orientation. The abuse has many forms:

    • Harmful words
    • Hitting, slapping
    • Pushing, shoving
    • Unwanted or forced sex
    • Controlling dress, activities, behavior
    • Excessive phoning, emailing or texting
    • Preventing contact with family and/or friends
    • Stalking

    If you are a victim of dating violence, report it to public safety or the police.

    If you see a fellow student being abused or in a risky situation, step in and assist that person.

    Alcohol is a factor in most cases of sexual assault on campus. Party smart – avoid excessive alcohol and keep your head straight.

    Public Safety                                                        Counseling Center
    313-993-1234                                                      313-993-1562 or 313-578-0496

    University Ministry                                                 Detroit Police Crisis Line (24 hours)
      313 993-1560                                                      313-833-1660


    Y.W.C.A - Domestic Violence Crisis Line              First Step (24 hours)
      (24 hours)                                                             888-453-5900
     313-861-5300                                                                               

    Common Ground Sanctuary                                 HAVEN
    248-456-0909 or 800-231-1127                            248-334-1274 or 877-922-1274                                                                        

    Turning Point
    586-463-6690

                                                                                  

    Additional Resources

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    Auto Theft (HEAT)

    View the PDF of how to Help Eliminate Auto Theft

    A Crime of Opportunity

    Help Eliminate Auto Theft 1-800-242-HEAT Earn up to $10,000

    Practice These Safety Tips to Keep You and Your vehicle Safe:

    • Lock your car - half of all vehicles stolen are left unlocked
    • Take your keys - nearly 20% of all vehicles stolen have keys in them
    • Don't leave valuables in plain view - they may invite thieves to break into your car
    • Completely close your windows - don't make it easy to gain access to your car
    • Don't hide a spare set of keys in the car - professional thieves know where to look
    • Don't keep your registration in your glove compartment - thieves have just what they need if they steal your car.  Keep it in your wallet
    • Even if burdened down with packages, try to keep one hand free with the ignition key in hand. Look around and inside the car before getting in
    • If threatened by a carjacker with a gun or other weapon, GIVE UP THE CAR. DON'T ARGUE. A life is more important than any car.

    Make it harder on the thief

    • Park with your wheels turned toward the curb to help prevent your vehicle from being pushed or towed away
    • If your vehicle has rear-wheel drive, back into your driveway - rear wheels lock on rear-wheel drive vehicles, making them tough to tow. Front-wheel drive vehicles should be parked front end first
    • Always use your emergency brake when parking
    • If you have a garage, use it, and when you do, lock both the vehicle and garage door
    • If your vehicle is going to be unattended for a long period of time, disable it; for example, remove the ignition fuse or coil wire.