EXIT SITE
Information for Witnesses
The information ont this page is intended to ease concerns of individuals who are contacted by OEA for an interview into the investigation of a potential violation of Stony Brook University policies prohibiting discrimination, including sexual misconduct that are not "parties" to an investigation. This means these indivduals are neither reporting individuals nor respondents, often refered to as witnesses. We understand that being involved in an investigation of a complaint can be stressful, and depending on the conduct that someone may have witnessed, it can also be upsetting.
Witnesses may be asked to provide information, observations, or evidence relevant to the investigation. These investigations typically pertain to incidents such as discriminatory or sexual harassment, sexual violence, staking, dating or domestic violence or another form of gender-based discrimination.
If you have information to provide to an ongoing investigation or if you have been contacted by OEA as a witness in an investigation, here are some important steps and considerations to keep in mind:
Understand your role: As a witness, your role is to provide factual information about the incident or incidents in question. Your role is not to advocate for any party involved but to provide an objective account of what you witnessed or experienced.
Contact the investigator: Reach out to the designated investigator or Title IX coordinator. They will provide you with the necessary information, guidance, and instructions.
Prepare your statement: Take time to gather your thoughts and recollect the relevant details of the incident(s). Make notes or create an outline to ensure you cover all the necessary information. Be prepared to answer questions about dates, times, locations, people involved, and any other pertinent details.
Review relevant policies: Familiarize yourself with Stony Brook University policies and procedures regarding OEA investigations. If you have questions you be sure to ask them of the Investigator.
Respect Privacy: Do not disclose your participation in the investigation. Respect the privacy of all of the parties involved and the integrity of the investigation. Avoid discussing the case with other individuals, including those involved in the case, to the extent possible.
Be truthful and cooperative: When providing your statement, be honest and provide accurate information to the best of your knowledge. Cooperate with the investigators, respond promptly to their requests, and attend any meetings or interviews as requested.
Seek support if needed: Participating in an investigation can be emotionally challenging. If you require emotional support or assistance, consider reaching out to one or more of the on- campus and off-campus resources available to you.
Understand retaliation protections: Stony Brook University policy and federal and state law prohibits retaliation against individuals who participate in or cooperate with an investigation. If you experience any form of retaliation, report it immediately to the investigator or OEA.
If you have any concerns or questions, don't hesitate to reach out to the designated investigtor or OEA for clarification and support.
You have the right to make a report to University Police, local law enforcement and/or state police or choose not to report; to report the incident to the University, to be protected by the University from retaliation for reporting an incident; and to receive assistance and resources from the University.
N.Y. Educ. Law 129-B §6444
Stony Brook offices and employees who cannot guarantee confidentiality will maintain your privacy to the greatest extent possible. The information you provide to a non-confidential resource will be relayed only as necessary for the Title IX Coordinator to investigate and/or seek a resolution.
N.Y. Educ. Law § 129-B §6446
At Stony Brook University, we value all students, employees, and job candidates as unique individuals, and we welcome the variety of experiences they bring to our institution. As such, we have a strict non-discrimination policy. It is the policy of Stony Brook University not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.