Investigations
The Office of Equal Opportunity Services is responsible for adjudicating cases when students are accused of violating Rice's standards under the Sexual Misconduct Policy. When a student is accused of violating the Code of Student Conduct, they will usually be asked to meet with an EOS Investigator and will receive an explanation of the charges both in person and in writing.
An 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 will not be in the meeting at the same time. The EOS staff member investigating the matter will determine whether to charge the responding student under the Code of Student Conduct, whether a violation occurred (based on a preponderance of the evidence), and what sanction will apply if the responding student is found in violation.
The adjudication process can take 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.
- To learn more about the process, PLEASE CLICK HERE.
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.