Crime impacts victims in many ways—physically, emotionally, financially, and legally. The Vanderbilt University Police Department (VUPD) is committed to protecting victims' rights and dignity by providing compassionate support, referrals, and advocacy.
What We Do
- Safety Planning: We collaborate with victims to develop safety plans when needed.
- Support and Accompaniment: We provide support during medical, counseling, and legal processes, such as court hearings, protection orders, and law enforcement interviews.
- Liaison Services: We connect victims with legal, medical, and counseling services as needed.
- Fair Treatment: We ensure that victims receive fair treatment according to Tennessee’s Victim’s Bill of Rights.
Getting Help
Calling the Police
If you decide to report a crime, contacting the police and preserving evidence is an important first step. The more evidence available, the greater the chance of successful prosecution.
Police Response
When you contact the Vanderbilt University Police Department (VUPD), one or two officers will respond. They will gather information, collect evidence (e.g., clothing, weapons), and help you access medical and emotional support services.
Reasons for Reporting
- Take an important step toward justice.
- Document the crime.
- Preserve evidence.
- Help protect others from becoming victims.
Having Someone Accompany You
You don’t have to file a police report alone. A family member, friend, or the Vanderbilt University Victim Services Coordinator can be with you for support.
Making a Delayed Report
It’s common to delay reporting a crime. Remember, it’s never too late. While timely reports help with prosecution, the most important thing is to report when you feel ready. Your well-being is our priority, and we’re here whenever you choose to come forward.
Remembering More Details
If you remember more details after your initial report, you can contact VUPD to update the information.
Medical Care
A Medical Examination
If you’ve been sexually assaulted, a medical legal examination (MLE) is important. It helps identify injuries you may not notice right away and preserves physical evidence. An MLE also provides preventive treatment for sexually transmitted infections and information about pregnancy risks.
Having Evidence Collected
Even if you’re unsure about making a police report or pursuing prosecution, having an MLE is still important. It preserves evidence and keeps your options open. If an MLE isn’t done within 72 hours, valuable evidence may be lost.
Where to Get Medical Care
MLEs are available at Vanderbilt University Medical Center's Adult Emergency Department.
Having Someone with You During the MLE
You can have a support person—family, friend, or the Vanderbilt University Victim Services Coordinator—with you during the medical care process.
Risks of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Your risk of contracting an STI depends on factors like the type of contact, number of assailants, and whether the assailant was infected. You have two options: immediate preventive treatment or waiting to see if an infection occurs before taking medication. Regardless of your choice, it’s important to be re-examined and re-tested.
Risks of Pregnancy
Pregnancy risk from sexual assault depends on factors like your menstrual cycle, contraceptive use, and whether the assailant ejaculated near your vagina. A doctor or nurse can assess your risk and explain treatment options, which are most effective within 72 hours. If you choose to wait and see, a healthcare provider can discuss your options later.
Workplace Violence
Workplace Violence
Workplace violence includes behaviors such as intimidation, threats, physical attacks, domestic violence, or property damage. Types of individuals who may engage in workplace violence include:
- An Angry Customer: Someone who reacts violently due to dissatisfaction or frustration.
- A Medically/Mentally Ill Patient: Someone whose condition may cause them to act violently in the workplace.
- A Criminal: Someone engaging in illegal activity that leads to workplace violence.
- A Batterer in a Domestic Dispute: Someone involved in domestic violence that spills into the workplace.
- A Disgruntled Employee: Someone unhappy with their job or workplace who may become violent.
If you experience workplace violence, report the incident promptly to the Vanderbilt University Police Department, your supervisor, or the Employee Assistance Program for support and assistance.
Counseling Resources
Vanderbilt Services
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- University Counseling Center (UCC)
- Center for Spiritual and Religious Life
Community Services
Order of Protection
What is an Order of Protection?
An Order of Protection is a legal document signed by a judge that directs someone who is harming or threatening you to stop. Failure to comply can result in serious legal consequences. It provides legal protection for victims of domestic abuse, sexual assault, and stalking.
Who is Covered?
In Tennessee, domestic abuse victims eligible for an Order of Protection include:
- Adults or minors who are current or former spouses
- Adults or minors who live together or have lived together
- Adults or minors who are dating or have dated, or who have had a sexual relationship
- Adults or minors related by blood, adoption, or marriage
- Adult or minor children of any of the above relationships
Qualifying Incidents for an Order of Protection
You can seek an Order of Protection if you have experienced:
- Physical injury caused by someone
- Being placed in fear of physical harm
- Physical restraint
- Malicious damage to personal property
- Harm or threats to your pet
Types of Protection
An Order of Protection can:
- Prohibit the perpetrator from contacting or communicating with you
- Prohibit stalking behaviors
- Grant you custody of your children
- Order spousal or child support
- Grant you exclusive possession of your residence or provide alternative housing
- Require the perpetrator to pay court costs
- Mandate counseling for violent behavior or substance abuse
- Restrict the perpetrator from possessing firearms
- Award custody and care of your pets
- Include any other conditions deemed necessary by the judge
The specifics granted depend on the details of your case.
Types of Orders
In Tennessee, there are two types of protection orders:
- Temporary Protection Orders (TPOs): Immediate short-term protection, granted without the perpetrator’s presence
- Extended Protection Orders (EPOs): Issued after a full court hearing, offering longer-term protection and more comprehensive measures
Cost and Legal Representation
Filing for an Order of Protection is free. Legal representation is not required, but you may seek assistance, especially if the perpetrator has legal counsel.
Steps to Obtain an Order of Protection
- Obtain Forms: Get forms from Project Safe at Vanderbilt University or Night Court in Davidson County
- Complete Forms: Provide detailed information about incidents and reasons for seeking protection
- File Forms: Submit forms at Night Court during business hours
- Ex Parte Hearing: Request a temporary order if immediate protection is needed
- Full Court Hearing: Attend the scheduled hearing to request an Extended Protection Order (EPO)
- Service of Process: Ensure the perpetrator is notified of the hearing and any temporary orders
- Hearing Process: Present evidence of abuse and need for protection to the judge
- Post-Hearing: Review the Order for accuracy and distribute copies to relevant parties
After Obtaining an Order
- Keep copies of the Order with you at all times
- Inform workplaces, schools, and others of the Order
- Change locks or phone numbers if necessary
- Follow up with local law enforcement to ensure they have copies
If Your Petition is Denied
Seek support from domestic abuse organizations for safety planning and other options.
Violations of the Order
Violating an Order of Protection is a criminal offense. Contact law enforcement immediately if the order is violated.
Modifying or Extending the Order
You can petition to modify or extend the Order before it expires.
Moving Locations
Orders are valid statewide in Tennessee and may be enforceable nationwide through Full Faith and Credit laws. Contact local authorities or domestic abuse programs for assistance in other states.
County-Specific Information
For detailed information on Orders of Protection in specific counties, contact the Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee.
Resources
Victim’s Bill of Rights
- The right to confer with the prosecutor about your case.
- The right to be free from harassment, intimidation and abuse throughout the criminal justice system.
- The right to be present at all proceedings where the defendant has the right to be present.
- The right to be heard, when relevant, at all critical stages of the criminal justice process as defined by the General Assembly.
- The right to be informed of all proceedings, and of the release, transfer or escape of the accused or convicted person.
- The right to a speedy trial or disposition and a prompt and final conclusion of the case after the conviction or sentence.
- The right to restitution from the offender.
- The right to know about each of these rights established for victims.