Understanding Investigations

Investigations with Student Judicial Programs

Student Judicial Programs (SJP) enforces the Code of Student Conduct, which includes the Sexual Misconduct Policy, and is responsible for adjudicating cases when students are accused of violating Rice's standards. When a student is accused of violating the Code of Student Conduct, they will usually be asked to meet with SJP and will receive an explanation of the charges both in person and in a written letter.

An SJP investigation typically involves one or more meetings with the reporting student, the responding student, any witnesses, and an opportunity for each party to submit further information for consideration. These meetings occur separately; for the safety of all parties, reporting students and accused students do not sit in the same meeting and will not be in SJP at the same time. SJP often works with RUPD to gather statements from the parties involved. The SJP staff member investigating the matter will make a determination of whether to charge the responding student under the Code of Student Conduct, whether (based on a preponderance of the evidence) a violation occurred, and what sanction will apply if a responding student is found In Violation.

The adjudication process through SJP typically takes less than 60 days, but can vary depending on the complexity of the case. During an investigation interim sanctions may be issued to the responding student to protect the safety of the reporting student and the campus. These vary, but can include no contact orders and removal from campus.

If you have questions about these procedures, contact SJP at sjp@rice.edu or x. 4786/ (713) 348-4786.

Criminal Investigations with Law Enforcement

If you are involved in a criminal investigation, the police department handling the investigation will inform you of your rights and of the expected procedures of the case. If you have questions, contact the Rice University Police Department (RUPD) at x. 6000/ 713-348-6000 or the law enforcement agency investigating your case.