SEMO and local organizations provide vital assistance to victims of sexual assault, encompassing support for reporting, counseling, legal guidance, and protective measures, thereby creating a comprehensive response system.

On August 18, a SEMO student faced accusations of sexual assault against another student in a dormitory setting. Following the incident, the accuser reported it to SEMO’s Department of Public Safety (DPS).

DPS Director Dr. Rich Flotron stated that the department's primary role in assisting sexual assault victims begins with aiding them in filing a report and providing a handout detailing various resources for further support. This pamphlet lists contacts for several on-campus offices, such as the Office of Student Conduct and the Campus Violence Protection Program, as well as community resources like the Safe House for Women, Birth Right, local hospitals, and the Southeast Missouri Network Against Sexual Violence (SEMO NASV).

Alix Gassers, Development Director at SEMO NASV, emphasized the organization’s commitment to offering comprehensive services to sexual assault victims. “We provide forensic interviews and exams, advocacy, and counseling for those who have experienced sexual violence,” Gasser noted. “We also assist children who have faced physical and sexual abuse, alongside providing prevention education through our Green Bear Project programs.”

Gasser elaborated that during forensic interviews, a multidisciplinary team ensures that the accuser's voice is prioritized throughout the legal process. “It’s a trauma-informed and non-leading approach to documenting disclosures. We collaborate with law enforcement, juvenile offices, prosecuting attorneys, and mental health professionals to ensure the client retains control of their narrative. We guide them through the disclosure process, which is recorded for potential legal proceedings,” Gasser explained.

In addition to forensic interviews, SEMO NASV aids victims in obtaining restraining orders and navigating the legal system, as well as providing specialized medical exams and counseling services for victims and their families. They operate a 24-hour crisis hotline at 887-820-6278 and are accessible through their website at semonasv.org.

Flotron noted that in situations where one student accuses another of sexual assault, an independent investigation may be conducted by the dean of students or under Title IX.

SEMO’s Title IX Coordinator Trae Mitten clarified that faculty and students can file a sexual assault complaint under Title IX without being obligated to press criminal charges. “Anyone, whether faculty, staff, or students, has the right to file a complaint against an employee or another student. They may choose to pursue a criminal complaint if they wish, but we do not compel them to do so,” Mitten said.

Mitten also mentioned that when an assault is reported to the university, SEMO can implement a no-contact order. “We can issue a no-contact order, which is a directive from the Office of Student Conduct to all involved parties prohibiting any form of contact, whether in-person, through social media, email, phone calls, or third parties. Violating this order may lead to disciplinary action,” Mitten explained. “We can also rearrange class schedules if the involved parties share classes, or even relocate them within residence halls if both reside on campus."