News from Off Campus Student Services

Domestic Violence knows no boundaries, respects no age, race, sex or sexual orientation.
While commonly perceived to be a "Family" issue, Domestic Violence reaches far beyond this measure. Domestic Violence can take the form of family involvement to be sure; it can also often be seen in dating relationships and housing or roommate matters, both of which have a significant presence on a campus. Of the cases Domestic Violence or Harassment incidents reported to NUPD in 2008, the majority involved roommates, family or dating circumstances, occurring both on and off campus.

Massachusetts's Abuse Prevention Law (MGL 209-A) defines abuse as:
"(a) attempting to cause or causing physical harm;
(b) placing another in fear of imminent serious physical harm;
(c) causing another to engage involuntarily in sexual relations by force, threat or duress."

"Domestic violence affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and education levels. Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses, and the community at large." According to the US Department of Justice website (www.ovw.usdoj.gov/domviolence.htm).

Legal definitions notwithstanding, there is no obvious definition of Domestic Violence and the types of abuse being reported are as varied as the victim making the report. If you, or someone you know, are in a situation which you feel is causing you harm, or could cause you harm and your relationship is described in the law you have the right to protection under the law, as well as access to programs and services within the University to protect your rights. There are also services and programs in the community which can offer additional assistance to abuse victims. The Northeastern University Police will assist in obtaining an Abuse Protection Order, commonly referred to as a Restraining Order, from the court, if requested by the victim. This requires the victim to appear in court to support the application for the order, as well as for any extensions of time on the order. If a Restraining Order is issued for an incident that has occurred off campus, the University Police will retain a copy of the order and take appropriate actions in the event that it is violated.

The University also has programs in place to assist victims of abuse and harassment including counseling services at University Health and Counseling; providing temporary housing relocation for students and the We Care program. Students, staff and faculty may also seek assistance at the Office of Affirmative Action and Diversity which has programs and policies in place to deal with matters involving harassment.

To access University and Police Resources:
Northeastern University Police 617-373-2121
University Health and Counseling Services 617-373-2772
NU We Care Program we_care@neu.edu
NU Student Affairs 617-373-4384
NU Office of Affirmative Action and Diversity 617-373-2133
Boston Police 911