In the event that a situation arises, either on or off campus, that, in the judgment of the Chief of Police, constitutes an ongoing or continuing threat to the campus, a campus wide timely warning will be issued. The warning will be issued through the university e-mail system to students, faculty, staff, and the university community adjacent to the campus.
The Connect-ed system, the campus radio and television stations, the campus student newspaper and the posting of printed material around campus may also be utilized.
In accordance with the published guidelines used to interpret 34 CFR 668(e), the decision to issue a timely warning is made on a case-by-case basis in light of all facts surrounding the crime, including factors such as the nature of the crime, the continuing danger to the community, and the possible risk of compromising law enforcement efforts. Neither the Clery Act nor the Department of Education defines “timely”.
The Department of Education has stated that the warning should be issued as soon as the pertinent information is available.
Alcorn State University will issue timely warnings without delay once reported information has been verified and the determination is made that an immediate threat to the community is evident.
Depending on the particular circumstances of the crime or event, especially in all situations that could pose an immediate threat to the community and individuals, the police department will post additional information as it becomes available along with updated notifications. (See Emergency Notifications – section 3.1)
Timely warnings for situations that are criminal in nature and involve victim(s), the victim’s confidentiality will be preserved and police involvement will ensure that due process taken along with the dissemination of information. The law dictates and the university has procedure to ensure that such victim’s confidentiality will be preserved in the aftermath of public disclosure.
Timely warnings for situations that are not criminal in nature such as natural disasters, will also be handled by the university’s emergency management team. (See Attachment VII for team details). In such instances, a copy of the notice is posted around campus, in each residence hall, and academic building.
Anyone with information warranting a timely warning should report the circumstances to the university police department by phone at 601-877-3000 or ext. 3000 or in person at the university police station.
For the Natchez campus they can call by phone at 601-304-4384 or ext. 4384.