Annual Security Report 2026

Each college of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System is responsible for the preparation of the Annual Security Report in cooperation with Legal Affairs, Campus Security Authorities, and local police agencies. The statistics include alleged and attempted crimes. All crimes reported in “good faith” and occurring on-campus, on public property surrounding our campuses, or in non-campus buildings or property is recorded for inclusion in the annual crime statistics. This report provides crime statistics for the three most recent completed calendar years, 2023, 2024, and 2025. The statistics are requested annually from local law enforcement agencies and submitted to the Security Coordinator for collection and analysis. For statistical purposes, a reportable crime is included in the statistics for the calendar year in which the crime was reported to a Campus Security Authority or local law-enforcement agency.

The report includes statistics submitted by Legal Affairs, Student Affairs, Human Resources, Campus Security Authorities, and local law enforcement agencies. These reports are reviewed, and if reportable under the Clery Act, are included in the annual statistics. Police arrest statistics and campus disciplinary referral data for weapons violations, drug violations and liquor law violations are analyzed by Campus Security to avoid duplicated reporting. SCC Somerset Community College does not currently recognize any student organization that owns or controls a noncamper housing facility or other non-campus property. Accordingly, SCC does not have a policy for monitoring criminal activity at such locations through local law-enforcement agencies. Reports involving student organizations are nevertheless evaluated under applicable Clery Act geography and reporting requirements.

All of these statistics are gathered, compiled and reported to the campus community via the Annual Security Report which is published each year. Campus Security submits the annual crime statistics published in this report to the Department of Education (ED) each year. The statistical information gathered by the Department of Education is available to the public through the ED web site.

Somerset Community College distributes a notice of the availability of this Annual Security Report to all currently enrolled students and current employees by October 1 each year, via email. The notice briefly describes the report, provides the exact electronic address at which it may be accessed, and explains how to request a paper copy at no charge. The report is available online for prospective students and prospective employees.

For more information regarding campus safety or the contents of this report, contact Paul Smith – Security Coordinator at (606) 451-6938 or Christopher Olson – Security Coordinator at (606) 305-5878.

Campus Security Authorities, or CSAs, include Campus Security personnel; individuals with responsibility for campus security; individuals or organizations identified in College policy as locations to which students and employees should report crimes; and College officials who have significant responsibility for student and campus activities. At SCC, CSAs may include deans, directors, student-services personnel, athletic coaches, and faculty or staff advisors to student organizations.

A CSA who receives a good-faith report of a possible Clery Act crime must promptly report the available information to Campus Security. The report will be reviewed for inclusion in the annual crime statistics, timely-warning consideration, Clery geographic applicability, and emergency-notification consideration when applicable. CSAs should not investigate the report or determine whether a crime occurred before forwarding the information.

SCC does not have a campus police department. No campus personnel have arresting powers. If physical measures are needed to ensure the safety and security of persons on campus, state or local police agencies shall be contacted.

While there are no Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) with local or state law enforcement agencies. SCC maintains a strong working relationship with state and local police through training, meetings and communicating with local and state police agencies in the investigation of criminal offenses.

Off-Campus Student Organizations

Somerset Community College does not currently recognize any student organization that owns or controls a noncampus housing facility or other non-campus properties. Accordingly, SCC does not have a policy for monitoring criminal activity at such locations through local law-enforcement agencies. Reports involving student organizations are nevertheless evaluated under applicable Clery Act geography and reporting requirements.

Student Housing

SCC does not operate student-housing facilities.

Procedures for Campus Crime Reporting

Students, staff, faculty, and guests are strongly encouraged to promptly report all criminal actions or other emergencies occurring on campus to a Campus Security Authority or local law-enforcement agencies, if necessary.

Crimes should be promptly reported to Campus Security, a Campus Security Authority, or local law enforcement so that the College can evaluate the report for emergency response, timely-warning or emergency-notification consideration, inclusion in the annual crime statistics, and other appropriate safety actions. Prompt reporting may help protect the community, support affected persons, preserve information, and increase the likelihood of an effective institutional or law-enforcement response.

Although Campus Security strives to maintain a safe and open environment for victims to report crimes, individuals may not feel comfortable contacting the police. In these instances, reporting to other campus security authorities is available. As an example, sex offenses may be reported to the college Title IX Coordinator.

To Report Crimes Please Contact:

Paul Smith, Security Coordinator
Laurel North Campus, Building 2 Suite 221
(606) 451-6938
SCCsecurity@kctcs.edu

Christopher Olson, Security Coordinator
Somerset North Campus, Blakley Building, Suite 101
(606) 305-5878
SCCsecurity@kctcs.edu

John Roberts, Director of Operations 
Somerset North Campus, Blakley Building, Suite 101
(606) 451-6671
johnp.roberts@kctcs.edu

Tracy Casada, Chief Student Affairs Officer, Title IX Coordinator
Somerset North Campus, Rodgers Building, Suite 132
(606) 451-6631
tracy.casada@kctcs.edu

An incident report form can also be completed anonymously on the SCC security web site.

After normal business hours, students, employees, and visitors may call 911 or the appropriate local law-enforcement agency, contact the location-specific security number listed below, submit the online incident-report form, or email SCCsecurity@kctcs.edu.

Voluntary Confidential Reporting

SCC/KCTCS does not have a Voluntary Confidential Reporting policy. Individuals may report crimes anonymously through the online reporting form or EthicsPoint. Anonymous reports will be reviewed for inclusion in Clery Act statistics, timely warnings, and other campus safety considerations when sufficient information is available. The ability to investigate anonymous reports may be limited by the information provided.

SCC will issue a Crime Bulletin, also known as a Timely Warning, when a Clery Act crime is reported to a Campus Security Authority or local law-enforcement agency, is reported to have occurred within SCC’s Clery geography, and is considered by the College to represent a serious or continuing threat to students and employees. Timely warnings will be issued in a manner that is timely and will aid in the prevention of similar crimes. The purpose of a Crime Bulletin is to provide the campus community with information that may assist individuals in protecting themselves, increasing awareness, and preventing similar incidents.

Examples of crimes that may result in a crime bulletin include but are not limited to:

• Criminal Offenses – Criminal homicide including Murder and non-negligent manslaughter, and manslaughter by negligence; sexual assault, including rape, fondling, incest, and statutory rape; robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, motor vehicle theft, and arson.
• Hate Crimes – Any of the above-mentioned offenses, and any incidents of larceny-theft, simple assault, intimidation, or destruction/damage/ vandalism of property that were motivated by bias.
• Violence against Women Act Offenses - Domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking.

Crime Bulletins are intended to provide timely information that may assist members of the campus community in protecting themselves and preventing similar crimes.

SCC will withhold the names and other personally identifying information of victims from Crime Bulletins, consistent with Clery Act requirements and applicable law.

The decision to issue a Crime Bulletin will be made on a case-by-case basis after considering the nature of the crime, the continuing danger to the campus community, and the possible risk of similar incidents. The College Security Department may consult with the KCTCS System Office Director of Safety and Emergency Services and the KCTCS Office of Legal Services when evaluating the appropriateness, content, and timing of a Crime Bulletin. The College Chancellor, or their designee, will make a determination on whether a crime bulletin is issued.

Distribution of Crime Bulletins

If SCC determines that a Crime Bulletin is needed, SCC Security will work with the KCTCS System Office and SCC Marketing to design and distribute the bulletin.

Crime Bulletins may be distributed using a variety of communication methods, including mass email, the College website, campus notification systems, and printed notices. Depending on the nature and severity of the incident, a Crime Bulletin banner may be placed on the College's website, and printed notices may be posted in areas such as libraries, bookstores, student centers, and other locations deemed appropriate to effectively notify the campus community.

A Crime Bulletin will include the information available at the time that is necessary to help members of the campus community protect themselves and prevent similar crimes. Depending on the circumstances, the bulletin may include the nature of the incident, the date, time, and location, a summary of known facts, available suspect information, recommended protective actions, and reporting instructions. The College will withhold victim names and other personally identifying information.

SCC is an open campus. Normal operating hours are 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday–Friday. Saturday hours vary by semester course offerings and events. All campuses and centers that have evening classes have security guards.

Laurel Security 
(606) 305-9398

McCreary Security 
(606) 875-5856

Russell Security 
(606) 875-5866

Somerset Security 
(606) 305-9390

Casey Security
(606) 875-5850

Clinton Security
(606) 305-9388

Valley Oak Security
(606) 875-5896

SCC campuses and centers are monitored by video surveillance cameras.

All special events scheduled by on or off campus entities must have prior authorization. Contact the Facilities Management Specialist for information on special event policies and procedures. Events may require additional approval, staffing and coordination with campus personnel to meet security, parking, and traffic needs.

KCTCS makes every effort to ensure that the campus facilities and grounds are designed and maintained to promote safety, prevent crime, and minimize hazardous conditions. Attention is paid to the design and maintenance of facilities, landscaping and exterior lighting. The Maintenance and Operations (M&O) Dept. maintains the buildings and grounds. Campus facilities are inspected on a regular basis and repairs impacting safety and security are made promptly. Campus M&O are mindful of security and safety concerns, keeping vegetation controlled around lighting fixtures and along campus walkways and roadways on a regular schedule. Strategies and concepts of crime prevention through environmental design are considered in the design and construction of new facilities.

M&O personnel regularly patrol the campus and report malfunctioning lights and other unsafe physical conditions to M&O Supervisor for correction. We encourage community members to promptly report any security concern, including concerns about locking mechanisms, lighting, or landscaping to the campus maintenance manager.

• Somerset North, Russell, Casey- Maintenance Manager – (606)305-9381
• Somerset South, McCreary, Clinton – Maintenance Manager – (606) 305-9383
• Laurel, Valley Oak – Maintenance Manager – (606) 305-5357

Information Sharing

SCC security awareness and crime prevention programs have an overall goal of creating and maintaining a safe environment to support the academic mission of the college and ensure the well-being of campus community members.

The goal of sharing this information is to inform students and employees about security procedures, the practices to promote safety and eliminate or minimize criminal opportunities, and to encourage students/employees to take responsibility for personal and community safety.

Information on crime prevention and personal safety best practices can be found on the SCC website, in the security section.

Programs and Prevention

SCC provides safety and contact information as well as assistance if special conditions require it. Contact the Security Coordinator, (606) 305-5878 to discuss any special needs that may arise. Some of the programs SCC offers are Run-Hide-Fight training and Stop-the-Bleed classes. These are offered upon request and periodically throughout the academic year.

SCC and KCTCS utilize Vector solutions to provide training content to new and current employees. This training covers a variety of topics, Title IX and Clery act, FERPA, Cyber Security, Hazing and others. Employees are assigned required Vector Solution courses to complete on an annual basis. This mandatory training also covers reviews of KCTCS policies.

Student Training

Students have access to various online training programs that are similar to staff, however there is not required safety or crime prevention training for students.

As a recipient of federal grants and contracts, KCTCS gives this notice to students, faculty, and staff that it is in compliance with, and shall continue to be in compliance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendment of 1989. Students, faculty and staff are herein notified of the standards of conduct which shall be applicable while on KCTCS property, on KCTCS business, and/or at KCTCS sponsored activities.

Illegal Drug Policy

By KCTCS policy, by federal law, by state law, and, in some instances, by local ordinance; students, faculty, and staff are prohibited from the unlawful possession, use, dispensation, distribution, or manufacture of illicit drugs on KCTCS property, on KCTCS business and/or at KCTCS sponsored activities.

Alcohol Policy

Under KCTCS policy, students, faculty, and staff are required to abide by state laws concerning alcoholic beverages. Basically, Kentucky laws state that, if one is under the age of 21, it is unlawful to:

1. possess or consume alcoholic beverages,
2. misrepresent one's age for the purpose of purchasing alcoholic beverages, or
3. use a fake ID in an attempt to purchase alcoholic beverages.

No matter what one's age, Kentucky law states that it is unlawful to:

1. procure any alcoholic beverages for anyone under 21 years of age, or
2. drink or be drunk in a public place.

KCTCS campuses and buildings are considered as public places for purposes of these laws, except for a facility licensed to serve alcoholic beverages, and except for a facility used as a private residence, unless KCTCS policies state otherwise.

In addition, it is a violation of state law to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of any substance (drugs or alcoholic beverages) which may impair one's driving ability.

Enforcement

Any member of the KCTCS student body, faculty, or staff who violates these defined standards of conduct shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action up to and including suspension and/or termination. The specifically defined standards of conduct, the disciplinary procedures, and the appropriate sanctions are detailed in the codes of student conduct and in the Kentucky Community and Technical College System policies and procedures.

Suspected violations of this policy may be referred to appropriate law enforcement.

Sanctions

Under KCTCS policies and procedures, students who violate this standard of conduct are subject to disciplinary action from a minimum of a warning to a maximum of suspension from KCTCS.

Faculty and staff are subject to disciplinary action from a minimum of a warning to a maximum of termination from KCTCS employment.
Under state and federal drug laws, the gravity of the sanction depends on the classification of the controlled substance, the particular activity involved (possession or trafficking which includes manufacture, sale, and possession with intent to sell), and whether or not multiple convictions are involved.

Under Kentucky law, the most severe penalty for a drug law violation involves trafficking. On a first offense conviction, one may receive a fine of up to $10,000.00 and/or a sentence of up to ten years in the penitentiary; for subsequent offenses, the penalties may be doubled.

Under federal law, for simple possession of a controlled substance, one may be imprisoned for up to one (1) year and/or fined up to $1,000.00. For subsequent offenses, one may be imprisoned for up to three (3) years and/or fined up to $5,000.00. Under federal law, one may be fined up to $8,000,000.00 and/or may be sentenced from not less than 10 years up to life in prison for drug trafficking. For violations of other federal drug laws, one may receive life in prison or the death penalty.

Under both state and federal laws, one may suffer the loss of whatever property (house, farm) or possessions (vehicle) which one may have used in the drug trade.

Sanctions for violation of state alcohol laws vary from a fine of $10.00 to $2,000.00, a sentence of forty-eight (48) hours to twelve (12) months in jail, and/or suspension of one's operator's license.

Notice of Drug-Related Conviction

In compliance with the Federal Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, any employee shall notify the immediate supervisor if the employee is convicted of a criminal drug offense occurring in the workplace or while on KCTCS business within five (5) days of the conviction. KCTCS shall take appropriate sanctions and remedies in accordance within its policies. The provisions of this section are applicable to students who are employees of the KCTCS. If the employee is under a federal contract or grant, the KCTCS shall notify the contracting or granting agency of the conviction and of its actions. This section of this policy is also applicable to students who receive a Pell grant (federal grant).

Health Risk

The scope and impact of health risks from alcohol and drug abuse are both alarming and well-documented, ranging from mood-altering to life-threatening, with consequences that extend beyond the individual to family, organizations, and society at large. KCTCS, therefore, conducts regular programs to educate its students, faculty, and staff that consumption and use of drugs may alter behavior, distort perception, impair thinking, impede judgment, and lead to physical or psychological dependence.

Alcohol and/or drug abuse may lead to the deterioration of physical health by causing or contributing to various health conditions including but not limited to fatigue, nausea, personal injury, insomnia, pathological organ damage, some forms of cancer, pancreatitis, heart attack, respiratory depression, birth defects, convulsions, coma, and even death. Alcohol and drug abuse may also result in deterioration of mental health by causing or contributing to various conditions such as increased aggression, hallucinations, depression, disorientation, and psychosis.

Alcohol consumption causes a number of marked changes in behavior. Even low doses significantly impair the judgment and coordination required to drive a car safely, increasing the likelihood that the driver will be involved in an accident.

Low to moderate doses of alcohol also increase the incidence of a variety of aggressive acts, including spouse and child abuse.

Moderate to high doses of alcohol cause marked impairments in higher mental functions, severely altering a person's ability to learn and remember information.

Very high doses cause respiratory depression and death. If combined with other depressants of the central nervous system, much lower doses of alcohol will produce the effects just described.

Repeated use of alcohol can lead to dependence. Sudden cessation of alcohol intake is likely to produce withdrawal symptoms, including severe anxiety, tremors, hallucinations, and convulsions. Alcohol withdrawal can be life-threatening. Long-term consumption of large quantities of alcohol, particularly when combined with poor nutrition, can also lead to permanent damage to vital organs such as the brain and the liver.

Mothers who drink alcohol during pregnancy may give birth to infants with fetal alcohol syndrome. These infants have irreversible physical abnormalities and mental retardation. In addition, research indicates that children of alcoholic parents are at greater risk than other youngsters of becoming alcoholics.

Training and Counseling Resources

Continuous efforts are made to make students, faculty, and staff aware of the on-campus and off campus programs which provide information and professional services on matters related to the abuse of alcohol and drugs.

Other counseling, treatment, and rehabilitation services are available in the communities throughout the state in which KCTCS employees are located.

Many other services are available and may be located by looking in the local phone directory yellow pages under "Social Services" or "Alcoholism" or in the "Community Service Guide" section at the front of the telephone directory.

Drug and Alcohol Abuse Programs

Students are encouraged to contact the Vice President of Student Affairs for information and appropriate referrals.

Other counseling, treatment and rehabilitation services are available in the Somerset Area.

Students, faculty, staff, and visitors to campus are encouraged to annually review and be familiar with the KCTCS Sexual Misconduct Policy.

Review of this policy is required for faculty, staff, and student employees yearly for continued employment.

The Kentucky Community and Technical College System is committed to creating and maintaining a community where all persons who participate in college programs and activities can work and learn together in an atmosphere free of sexual misconduct. Therefore, KCTCS will not tolerate sexual misconduct, dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking as defined in this its policies and procedures. Such acts are prohibited by KCTCS policy and procedure, as well as state and federal law. Persons whom KCTCS determines more likely than not have violated this procedure are subject to penalties up to and including expulsion or separation from KCTCS, regardless of whether they are also facing related criminal or civil charges before a government agency or court of law.

Importance of Preserving Evidence

It is important that a victim of sexual assault not bathe, douche, smoke, change clothing or clean the bed/linen/ area where they were assaulted if the offense occurred within the past 72 hours so that evidence may be preserved. This evidence may also assist in proving that the alleged criminal offense occurred/or is occurring or may be helpful in obtaining a protection order. In circumstances of sexual assault, if victims do not opt for forensic evidence collection, health care providers can still treat injuries and take steps to address concerns of pregnancy and/or sexually transmitted disease. Victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, and dating violence are encouraged to also preserve evidence by saving text messages, instant messages, social networking pages, other communications, and keeping pictures, logs or other copies of documents, if they have any, that would be useful to college hearing boards/investigators or police.

How and to Whom

KCTCS strongly encourages all individuals to report incidents of prohibited conduct to include harassment, sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking to their college’s Title IX Coordinator and their local law enforcement. Reportes to the Title IX coordinator can be made by phone, mail, email, in person, or any other means that results in the Title IX Coordinator receiving the person’s verbal or written report. Such a report may be made at any time (including during non-business hours) by using the telephone number or electronic mail address, or by mail to the office address, listed for the Title IX Coordinator.

Anonymous reports will be taken seriously and reviewed thoroughly by KCTCS, but the ability to respond to such a report may be limited depending on the information provided. Reports may be filed anonymously using the EthicsPoint hotline using the internet portal located at: https://secure.ethicspoint.com/domain/media/en/gui/28458/index.html or by calling 1-866-594-3115 toll free. EthicsPoint should be used for anonymous on-campus reporting of non-emergency situations.

For emergency situations or if there is immediate danger, call 911 or local emergency services.

Required Action by Employees. KCTCS requires that all Responsible Employees promptly elevate reports of prohibited conduct to the Title IX Coordinator or security personnel for the school, KCTCS Office of Legal Services, or the Human Resources Department.

1. Responsible Employees are KCTCS employees who have supervisory and leadership responsibilities, including division chairs, deans, provosts, administrators, faculty, and other employees in managerial positions.
2. If a Complainant has concerns about a KCTCS representative’s ability to maintain confidentiality or privacy, the Complainant is encouraged to ask the representative about their reporting obligations before speaking with that person about prohibited conduct.

Confidentiality in Reporting

Certain mental health providers, ordained clergy, rape crisis counselors, and attorneys have legally protected confidentiality. KCTCS does not provide these services to employees or students, but the Title IX Coordinator at each college maintains a list of local services for referral. Please note that when a report involves suspected abuse of a minor under the age of 18, state law requires both KCTCS as well as entities who are entitled to maintain confidentiality to notify child protective services and/or local law enforcement.

The following websites list resources available to victims of sexual assault and domestic violence in Kentucky and nationally:

• Kentucky Association of Sexual Assault Programs https://www.kasap.org/
• Kentucky Coalition Against Domestic Violence https://kcadv.org/
• Resources by state on violence against women https://womenshealth.gov
• RAINN https://centers.rainn.org/

KCTCS employees may access confidential assistance through the Employee Assistance Program by calling 888-293-6948 or visiting the website at https://www.workhealthlife.com. College Human Resources Directors maintain login information for the website. College Title IX Coordinators maintain a list of local resources for each college community.

When a Complainant requests that their identifiable information not be shared with the Respondent, that no formal action be taken, or that a Formal Complaint be filed, KCTCS will balance this request with its obligations to provide a safe and non-discriminatory environment for its stakeholders and its responsibility to provide proper due process to the Respondent. KCTCS may consider the nature and seriousness of the conduct, the ages and roles of the Complainant and Respondent, whether or not other reports or complaints against the Respondent have been received, and the rights of the Respondent to receive notice and relevant information before seeking disciplinary action.

KCTCS will take reasonable steps to honor a request for confidentiality, to not file a Formal Complaint, or to forego a formal investigation. If KCTCS cannot take action due to the Complainant’s request, or must take action despite the request, the Title IX Coordinator will inform the Complainant accordingly.

False Reports

1. KCTCS shall not tolerate intentional false reporting of incidents.
2. Parties or witnesses who make false allegations or given false, untruthful information with malicious intent or in bad faith may be subject to disciplinary action under KCTCS policies and/or the Code of Student Conduct.
3. False reports may or statements may also constitute violations of state criminal statutes and civil defamation laws.
4. A good-faith complaint that results in no determination of responsibility is NOT in and of itself evidence of false reporting.

Timely Warning

KCTCS or its College may be required to issue a crime bulletin if prohibited conduct represents an ongoing threat to the campus community.

1. KCTCS will not release the Complainant’s name to the general public without the Complainant’s express consent.
2. When a crime is reported to or brought to the attention of the College Safety Department, the College Safety Department shall determine whether to issue a Crime Bulletin notifying the campus community of the crime. To make that determination, the College Safety Department should promptly consult the KCTCS System Office Director of Safety and Emergency Services and KCTCS Office of Legal Services to review the available facts and determine the propriety and timing of a Crime Bulletin.

Crime Bulletins may be distributed using a variety of methods, the most common being mass email distribution. Depending on the nature of the crime, a Crime Bulletin banner may be added to the front page of the College webpage and/or printed and distributed to any number of areas on campus, including the library, bookstore, student centers, and any additional areas that may assist in alerting the campus community.

Consolidation of Reports

KCTCS may consolidate Formal Complaints filed against more than one Respondent, or by more than one Complainant against one or more Respondents, or by one party against the other party, where the allegations arise out of the same facts or circumstances.

Options About the Involvement of Law Enforcement

All individuals who make a report of sexual misconduct to their college’s Title IX Coordinator hold the right to decide whether to file a report with local law enforcement. They may choose to notify local police independently, request assistance from the college to file a police report, or decline to notify such authorities.

While KCTCS ultimately respects the rights of the complainant’s decision to involve local police authorities there may be some circumstances that pose an ongoing threat to the health and safety of the campus community that may warrant a police investigation. In these rare cases, a complainant still maintains the right to decide whether or not to cooperate with those authorities.

1. Assessment, Investigation and Resolution. Upon receipt of a report of prohibited conduct, the institution’s Title IX Coordinator must immediately notify the System Title IX Coordinator. The System Title IX Coordinator will manage the review, investigation, and resolution of reports consistent with Appendix A, which describes the Complaint and Investigation Process.
2. Mandatory Reporting of Suspected Child Abuse. If the reported victim is a minor under the age of 18, Kentucky law mandates that suspected abuse be reported. Emergency reports may be made to local law enforcement, the Kentucky State Police, the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, the child abuse hotline, or the Commonwealth or county attorney.

• Child abuse hotline—1-877-597-2331 or 800-752-6200
• Non-emergency reports may be made online at https://prd.webapps.chfs.ky.gov/reportabuse/home.aspx

Supportive Measures

Upon receipt of a report of prohibited conduct, KCTCS may offer and enact supportive measures to restore or preserve equal access to education programs or activities, to protect the safety of the educational environment, and/or to deter sexual harassment. Supportive measures are non-disciplinary, non-punitive individualized services offered as reasonably appropriate and available without fee or charge.

Supportive measures may be provided regardless of whether a Formal Complaint has been filed or formal disciplinary action is sought or pursued against the Respondent. Both Complainant and Respondent are eligible for appropriate supportive measures. Such measures may include, but are not limited to:

• referral to counseling services and other resources,
• extensions of deadlines or other course-related adjustments,
• modifications of work or class schedules, campus escort services,
• mutual restrictions on contact between the parties,
• changes in work or class locations, leaves of absence,
• increased security and monitoring of certain areas of the campus,

and other similar measures that can be tailored to the involved individuals to ensure equal access.

Supportive measures will be kept confidential to the extent possible, but some measures may require information to be provided to parties who are not involved with the report of prohibited conduct—for example, in order to receive flexibility on coursework, faculty may be notified that the student is experiencing a Title IX-related issue and requires extended time. As another example, supervisors may be notified that an employee’s Title IX-related issue requires additional approved leave or a flexible work schedule. Details of the issue itself would not be included in such notice. The Title IX Coordinator will coordinate and implement supportive measures.

The Title IX Coordinator will promptly contact the Complainant to discuss the availability of supportive measures, consider the Complainant’s wishes with respect to supportive measures, inform the Complainant of the availability of supportive measures with or without the filing of a Formal Complaint, and explain to the Complainant the process for filing a Formal Complaint.

Sanctions

Not all forms of prohibited conduct are equally serious offenses. KCTCS may impose different sanctions depending on the severity of the offense and other relevant factors. KCTCS will consider the rights of both the Complainant and the Respondent when contemplating sanctions. A Formal Grievance Hearing must occur (see Appendix B) before KCTCS imposes disciplinary sanctions against a Respondent, or other actions beyond supportive measures.

• Employees or volunteers who violate related KCTCS policy and procedure or who fail to make timely, proper required reports are subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or volunteer assignment, or other actions in accordance with KCTCS policies and procedures. Students who violate related KCTCS policy and procedure are subject to disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion in accordance with the KCTCS Code of Student Conduct and student policies and procedures.
• Guests or visitors who violate KCTCS policy and procedure may be immediately removed from KCTCS owned or controlled property and banned from returning to KCTCS owned or controlled property.
• Employees or students who are found in violation of this Procedure and are subject to disciplinary action hereunder have the right to appeal the action pursuant to KCTCS policies and procedures and/or the KCTCS Code of Student Conduct.
• Both parties may appeal a determination regarding responsibility or the dismissal of a formal complaint or any allegations therein in accordance with Appendix B.
• Free Expression and Academic Freedom. When addressing reports of violations of this Procedure, KCTCS is also required to balance individuals’ rights of free expression and academic freedom.

Matters handled under this Procedure shall be resolved based on principles of thoroughness, fundamental fairness, and promptness.

On receipt of a report of prohibited conducted as defined in the Title IX Sexual Harassment and Misconduct Procedure, the College Title IX Coordinator shall immediately determine what, if any, immediate supportive measures are appropriate, and as soon as possible notify the System Title IX Coordinator of the matter. The System Title IX Coordinator will manage the review, investigation, and resolution of reports. Following the initial assessment, the System Title IX Coordinator may recommend further action for processing and resolving the report.

The initial steps for resolving a report are the same whether the Respondent is a student, employee, or visitor. Employee and visitor Respondents will be processed in accordance with KCTCS employment policies and procedures. Student Respondents will be processed in accordance with the KCTCS Student Code of Conduct and student policies. Formal complaints for violations of the Title IX Sexual Harassment and Misconduct Procedure may result in a Formal Grievance Hearing (see Appendix B).

Initial Assessment

1. Immediate Threats. For every report of sexual harassment or misconduct, KCTCS will make an immediate assessment of any risk of harm to individuals or the campus community and take appropriate steps to address those risks.
2. Where the Respondent’s behavior objectively appears to pose an immediate threat to any member of the college community, KCTCS shall take immediate action to provide for the safety of individuals and the campus community, while also ensuring the Respondent receives due process. Such action may include interim protective measures, such as:
   • Placing employee Respondents on administrative leave in accordance with applicable policies and procedures;
   • Immediately temporarily suspending student Respondents in accordance with Code of Student Conduct requirements;
   • Banning visitor Respondents from KCTCS owned or controlled property;
   • Notifying local law enforcement or other officials as appropriate; and;
   • Taking other appropriate actions.
   • KCTCS will also issue Crime Bulletins as appropriate.

Appeals of Immediate Actions

By Students. Students who are immediately temporarily suspended as a result of an interim protective measure may appeal the suspension in accordance with the Code of Student Conduct.

By Employees. Employees who are suspended under this Procedure may appeal the sanction in accordance with the Complaint Resolution Procedure, directing the Step 1 appeal to the institution's Title IX Coordinator.

1. The institution’s Title IX Coordinator shall also determine whether immediate supportive measures are appropriate for any person involved and reasonably provide same.
2. Review, Investigation and Resolution of Reports of Prohibited Conduct. Once the immediate threat has been determined and acted upon, the System Title IX Coordinator will convene a System Title IX Committee to review the report and recommend an appropriate course of action. This interdepartmental team should be limited to a small number of officials who “need to know” in order to take appropriate action on the report, but may include the College Title IX Coordinator and officials from Safety and Emergency Services, Student Affairs, Human Resources, Academic Affairs, and Legal Services.

The System Title IX Committee will make an Initial Title IX Assessment to provide a response to the report of prohibited conduct. The assessment will consider:

1. The nature of the report
2. The policies that apply to the reported conduct
3. The safety of the involved individual and the campus community, and
4. When possible, the Complainant’s expressed preference for resolution.

Dismissal of Complaints

The System Title IX Committee must dismiss complaints under this Procedure if the conduct described does not:

• Rise to the level of prohibited conduct as defined in the Administrative Procedure 3.3.1A-P Procedure;
• Occur in the context of a KCTCS education activity or program; or
• Occur in the United States.

Complaints received under this Procedure may be dismissed under this Procedure if:

• The Respondent withdraws from enrollment or resigns employment; or
• The Complainant withdraws the complaint; or
• KCTCS is prevented from gathering evidence in the investigation sufficient to determine responsibility.

Upon dismissal, KCTCS will promptly send written notice of the dismissal and the reasons for dismissal simultaneously to the parties.

The System Title IX Committee shall refer conduct dismissed under this Procedure for review by the Chief Student Affairs Officer or Human Resources, as appropriate, if the conduct appears to violate other KCTCS policies or procedures or the Code of Student Conduct.

Supportive Measures

Upon receipt of a report of prohibited conduct, the institution’s Title IX Coordinator will promptly contact the Complainant to discuss the need and availability of supportive measures with or without the filing of a Formal Complaint and consider the Complainant’s wishes in this regard. Supportive measures will be implemented as appropriate during the initial assessment and at any time during the investigation process.

The Title IX Coordinator shall explain to the Complainant the process for filing a Formal Complaint.

Formal Complaint

Formal Complaints are documents filed by a Complainant alleging sexual harassment against a Respondent to request that KCTCS investigate the allegation of sexual harassment. Formal Complaints must be investigated.

Who May File a Formal Complaint. The following people may file a formal complaint against a Respondent under this Procedure:

A person who, at the time of filing a Formal Complaint, was participating or attempting to participate in a KCTCS education program or activity.

Parents or legal guardians of such person with legal right to act on behalf of the Complainant.

The Title IX Coordinator may also sign a Formal Complaint. This may also occur in cases where there is sufficient information set forth that, if proven, would constitute a Title IX violation, and no individual Complainant wishes to file a Formal Complaint. This does not make the Title IX Coordinator the Complainant or otherwise a party to the Formal Complaint.

• Method of Filing. Formal Complaints may be filed in person, by mail, by electronic mail, or by using the KCTCS hotline.

Informal Resolution

A formal Complaint may be resolved by an informal resolution between the parties any time prior to reaching a determination regarding responsibility. However, complaints by students against institutional employees may not be resolved through informal resolution.

An informal resolution is not a formal hearing or resolution.

• An informal resolution is a strictly voluntary process that aims to provide a mutually acceptable alternative to a full investigation and adjudication.
• Where eligible, KCTCS may invite the Complainant and Respondent to engage in informal resolution by written notice, provided however that the written notice must disclose the allegations,
• The requirements of the informal resolution process, including the circumstances under which it precludes the parties from resuming a Formal Complaint arising from the same allegations; and,
• Any consequences resulting from participating in the informal resolution process, including that the records will be maintained or possibly shared.
• Each party must voluntarily consent in writing to participate in informal resolution, and may withdraw from informal resolution efforts and resume the formal resolution process at any time prior to full execution of a Resolution Agreement.
• Informal resolution will be conducted by a designated KCTCS agent without bias in regard to the parties.

Investigation

When the Initial Title IX Assessment concludes an investigation is required, KCTCS will designate an investigator(s) with specific training and experience investigating allegations of prohibited conduct.

KCTCS may use a team of two investigators, which may include the College Human Resources Director with a System Office investigator, or two System Office investigators, or outside investigators working on behalf of KCTCS.

The investigation will be an objective fact-gathering process conducted in a thorough, impartial, and fair manner. The investigation will be respectful of individual privacy but must be performed in a manner that will ensure KCTCS’ compliance with all state and federal laws, including affording due process to the parties.

1. KCTCS will bear the burden of gathering evidence sufficient to reach a determination regarding responsibility by the applicable standard of proof. KCTCS will not access, consider, disclose, or otherwise use a party’s records made or maintained by a physician, psychiatrist, psychologist, or other recognized professional or paraprofessional acting or assisting in such a capacity unless KCTCS first obtains that party’s voluntary, written consent.
2. An investigation will normally include interviews with the Complainant, Respondent, and relevant witnesses. The investigation may also consider relevant physical, documentary, or other evidence that proves or disproves the allegations. Both Complainant and Respondent shall have an equal opportunity to present fact and expert witnesses and other evidence. Investigators shall make no credibility assessments or determinations based solely on the individual’s status as a Complainant, Respondent, or witness. KCTCS will not restrict the ability of the Complainant or Respondent to discuss the allegations under investigation or gather and present relevant evidence.
3. Information gathered during the initial review or investigation will be used to evaluate the responsibility of the Respondent, provide for the safety of the Complainant and the campus community, and impose remedies as necessary to address the effects of the conduct cited in the report.
4. The institution’s Title IX Coordinator will document each report or request for assistance in resolving a case involving charges of sexual misconduct, whether formal or informal, and will review and retain copies of all reports generated as a result of investigations for 7 years. These records will be kept confidential to the extent permitted by law.

Completion of Investigation. KCTCS will seek to complete the investigation within 20 (twenty) business days of receiving the complaint.

1. This timeframe may be extended depending on the circumstances of each case
2. Upon completion of the investigation, the investigators will forward the report to the System Title IX Committee for review and evaluation.

Notice to Parties and the Investigative Report

When the determination is made that a full investigation is required, both the Complainant and the Respondent shall be notified simultaneously in writing of the following:

1. the applicable policies, procedures, and processes;
2. the date, time, location, participants, and purpose of all hearings, investigative interviews, or other meetings, with sufficient time for the party to prepare to participate;
3. available information about the incident(s) that are the basis of the complaint, including date(s) and time(s);
4. that the Respondent is not presumed responsible for the alleged conduct and that a determination of responsibility will be made at the conclusion of the process, utilizing a preponderance of the evidence standard;
5. that each party has the right to an advisor of their choice, who may be but is not required to be an attorney;
6. that each party has the right to inspect and review evidence provided or obtained during the investigation process;
7. the citation for the policy or Code of Conduct section regarding providing false statements or false information; and
8. that if additional allegations arise during the course of the investigation, additional written notice will be provided in accordance with these requirements for each allegation to be investigated.

Prior to the completion of the investigation report, both the Complainant and the Respondent and their respective advisors (if any) shall be provided the opportunity to inspect any evidence obtained in the investigation directly related to the allegations, including evidence KCTCS does not intend to rely on in reaching a determination of responsibility and evidence which is exculpatory. Each party shall have 10 days from the date of their receipt to submit a written response that the investigators will consider prior to completing the report.

Completion of the Investigation Report

1. The investigators’ completed report will fairly summarize relevant evidence in a form substantially compliant with the Report of Investigation format established for this process.
2. At least 10 days prior to a hearing or other time of determination regarding responsibility, the investigators will send the report to each party and party advisors, if any, in an electronic format or hard copy for their review and written response.

Advisors During the Investigation Process

Complainant and the Respondent may choose to be assisted by an advisor of their choice during the investigation process. The advisor may accompany the student to any investigative or administrative meeting that is part of this process.

1. Advisors cannot be witnesses in the investigation.
2. Advisors’ schedules shall not cause undue delay to the investigation process. If a meeting cannot be scheduled with a party’s chosen advisor in a reasonable amount of time, the student may have to choose a different advisor for that meeting or choose to proceed without an advisor for that meeting.
3. Advisors must be a silent, non-participating presence there solely to observe and provide moral support during the interviews. The advisor may not address the interviewers, except to request a short recess if his/her advisee requires a break.

Absent extenuating circumstances, witnesses and others involved in an investigation are not entitled to have an advisor present.

Attorney Advisors/Outside Agreements: Complainants and Respondents may at their own expense choose to retain the assistance of an attorney as his/her advisor during the investigation process.

1. The advisor, including attorney and family member advisors, may not actively participate in investigatory interviews, informal or formal resolution proceedings, or the appeals process, and may not address, question, or cross-examine the investigators.
2. Advisors, including attorney advisors, may be excluded from any hearing or meeting for failing to adhere to the applicable rules.
3. KCTCS does not recognize or enforce agreements between the parties outside of these procedures.

Witnesses

The Complainant and Respondent have equal rights to present witnesses to be interviewed by the investigator(s). Fact witnesses must have observed the conduct in question or have relevant information. Witnesses may not speak solely to an individual’s character.

The parties may, at their own expense, offer relevant expert testimony. Expert witnesses must be subject to cross examination during the hearing or their testimony may not be considered.

The investigators will determine whether witnesses have provided relevant information and whether to include witness statements in the report of investigation.

Refusal to Participate

A party may refuse to participate in an investigation or hearing to prevent the possibility of self-incrimination, but such refusal shall not delay the KCTCS administrative process. However, KCTCS shall not draw or make adverse inferences or conclusions based on such refusal.

KCTCS may agree to defer its Title IX fact gathering until after the initial stages of a criminal investigation. KCTCS will nevertheless communicate with the Complainant regarding Title IX rights, safety and well-being.

Formal Resolution and Hearing Process

When an investigation demonstrates that sufficient evidence exists that a violation of policy and procedure has occurred, KCTCS will initiate a hearing in accordance with the Formal Hearing Process outlined in Appendix B.

Time Frame for Resolution

1. KCTCS shall use its best efforts to resolve all matters under this Procedure within 60 days of the initial report.
2. Timeframes expressed in this Procedure are guidelines, not mandatory requirements.
3. If the investigation and resolution must exceed these timeframes, KCTCS shall notify all parties of the reasons for the delay and the expected time of completion.
4. Extenuating circumstances that may require the extension of timeframes may include the
   
   • Complexity and scope of the allegations;
   • Number of witnesses involved;
   • Availability of the parties or witnesses
   • Effect of a concurrent criminal investigation, any intervening school break or vacation, or other unforeseen circumstances.

SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY

In compliance with the Federal Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act of 2000, KCTCS, through the Kentucky State Police, makes information available to the campus community concerning registered sex offenders who may be employees or students at your college.

The Kentucky State Police provides sex crime offender registration information to the public through the Sex Offender Registry website. Search the KSP Sex Offender Registry Website.

According to the Kentucky State Police, this website is for public safety and awareness. Pursuant to KRS 525.070 and 525.080, use of information from this website to harass a sex offender is a criminal offense punishable by up to 90 days in the county jail. More severe penalties apply for more severe crimes committed against a sex offender.

KCTCS Safety and Emergency Services assists Campus Security departments with developing, maintaining, and implementing emergency operations plans, developing and conducting exercises, hazard and risk education, and building partnerships with external response agencies.

The System Office Crisis Management Team staffs the System Office Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and may be activated to provide resource and support services to college EOC, if needed. The System Office Crisis Management Team is equipped to provide the following services to colleges when requested:

• Public and media relations support
• Facilities support.
• Temporary alteration of administrative and business policies and procedures
• Procurement of resource and support services
• After-action incident evaluation

Not all incidents will require an activation of the EOC. For smaller, routine campus incidents response operations may be managed virtually by several members of your Crisis Management Team. Tabletop exercises are held at least once a year for members of the EOC and Crisis Management Team.

SCC maintains an Emergency Operation Plan that can be activated during an emergency. This plan includes evacuation rally points, emergency procedures, and guidelines for implementing the Incident Command system.

Emergency Action Plans detailing guidelines for response to different types of emergencies are provided in every building and classroom on KCTCS campuses.

Prior to Evacuation

• Communications should be accomplished in person or through telecommunications.
• 911 should be contacted to advise of the emergency.

During the Evacuation

• Everyone that is able should evacuate.
• Remain calm.
• If you are the last one out of the room, close the door.
• If you encounter a physically disabled individual, assist that person out of the building or to the nearest stairwell and seek further assistance from an emergency responder outside the building.
• Do not use elevators, use the stairs.
• Once outside the building everyone should report to the rally point (a pre-designated location).
• Rally points are described in the Emergency Operations Plan.

Coordination with Law Enforcement

SCC does not currently maintain a written memorandum of understanding with a state or local law-enforcement agency concerning the investigation of alleged criminal offenses. SCC maintains working relationships with state and local law-enforcement agencies through joint training, meetings, communications, and coordination concerning criminal incidents affecting College locations.

SCC uses a Safety Notification Alert Process (SNAP) for communication emergency information quickly. Students and staff are automatically signed up when they enroll at a KCTCS college.

In the event of an incident that requires immediate notification to the campus community, a SNAP Alert will be issued that will provide text, voice, broadcast and e-mail messages to all members of the college community. Face-to-face communication will be used in the event technology fails.

SCC has a SNAP Team that who are authorized to send out SNAP messages. SCC uses a consultation approach to confirm there is a significant emergency or dangerous situation involving an immediate threat to the health or safety of students or employees occurring on campus. The college Chancellor is responsible for confirming an emergency, with the assistance of college administrators, local first responders and/or the national weather service. Upon confirmation, the college will, without delay, and taking 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.

The SCC team and/or designated personnel, when possible, will determine the content of the notification, considering the scope of the notification based on the segment of the community at risk (e.g. targeted areas, campus wide, building specific).

SNAP Team Members by Title

• Chancellor
• Provost
• Chief of Student Affairs
• VC of Administration
• IT Staff
• Security Coordinator
• Safety Coordinator
• Director of Operations
• Operations Administrative Assistant
• M & O Supervisors
• Some select M & O Staff
• Campus and Center Directors and/or Coordinators
• VC of Institutional Effectiveness
• VC of Workforce Solutions
• Executive Administrative Assistant
• Senior Administrative Assistant - Office of the Provost
• Security Officers
• Other select facility and staff members.

SNAP is not the only means the College uses to communicate emergency information to the College community. KCTCS Colleges may use their website, local TV, radio, newspaper, and various social media.

Follow-up information will be provided to the campus community using some or all of the systems described above. The larger community, parents, neighbors, and other interested parties can access emergency information through the college website or the media.

Training, Drills, and Exercises

Somerset Community College conducts at least one test of its emergency response and evacuation procedures each calendar year. Tests may be announced or unannounced. In conjunction with at least one test each calendar year, SCC publicizes its emergency response procedures to students and employees. For each test, SCC documents the exercise description, date, start time, end time, and whether the test was announced or unannounced.

These activities are designed to improve emergency response on an ongoing basis. Contact the Safety and Security office for more information or to make a request.

The IT Department documents and files each SNAP Alert test. This includes a description of the drill or exercise, date, time of test, and how the test was announced or unannounced.

Somerset Community College Hazing Transparency Report

There were no reports of hazing and no investigations of conduct defined as hazing between December 1, 2025, and July 1, 2026.

The purpose of the College Hazing Transparency Report is to summarize any findings of a hazing violation by student organizations at the college. Hazing is defined in the KCTCS Administrative Policy - 6.8, and violations of hazing would be adjudicated as outlined in the Code of Student Conduct. This report is different and distinct from the Annual Security Report, though statistical information may overlap.  

Report Requirements 

The Stop Campus Hazing Act requires the college to publish a Campus Hazing Transparency Report. The report must include each incident involving a student organization for which a finding of responsibility is issued relating to a hazing violation, including:

• The name of such student organization;
• A general description of the violation that resulted in a finding of responsibility, including:
  • whether the violation involved the abuse or illegal use of alcohol or drugs,
  • the findings of the institution, and
  • any sanctions placed on the student organization by the institution, as applicable; and
• The dates on which:
  • The incident was alleged to have occurred
  • The investigation into the incident was initiated
  • The investigation ended with a finding that a hazing violation occurred, and the institution provided notice to the student organization that the incident resulted in a hazing violation. 
• The Campus Hazing Transparency report cannot include personally identifiable information. 

Prevention  

Hazing prevention requires a proactive, education-based approach that promotes safe group membership, early intervention, accountability, and a culture of respect. National resources such as StopHazing.org, Hazing Prevention Network, the Piazza Center, the Gordie Center, and the Interdisciplinary Institute for Hazing Prevention provide research-informed guidance, toolkits, training materials, prevention frameworks, and educational resources to help institutions, student organizations, athletic teams, and campus leaders recognize, prevent, and respond to hazing. Individuals who are aware of, experience, or suspect hazing are encouraged to report concerns through appropriate campus channels, local law enforcement when there is an immediate safety concern, or the National Hazing Hotline at (888) NOT-HAZE for anonymous, non-emergency reporting.