Crisis Communications Plan Team 5
Penn State University 201 Old Main University Park, PA 16802
Written November 20, 2017
Laura Ritchey (Team Leader) Gwyneth Mulliken Joey Niedziejko Erica Patterson Sarah Pettoruto Tayah Price Halle Proper Jenna Provencher Meg Riley Courtney Rodrigues
Tested December 1, 2017
Rehearsal Dates Schedule: June 1, 2018 December 1, 2018
CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
Table of Contents Introduction………………………………………………………………………………………………2 Statement from Management…………………………………………………………………………….3 Acknowledgements………………………………………………………………………………………4
The Crisis Communications Team……………………………………………………………………….5 Purpose and Objectives…………………………………………………………………………………..6 Sequence of Critical Events……………………………………………………………………………...7 Crisis Scenario/Situation Analysis……………………………………………………………………….8
Alert Procedure………………………………………………………………………………………….11 Incident Identification Form…………………………………………………………………………….12 Risk Assessment Form………………………………………………………………………………….13 Telephone Tree………………………………………………………………………………………….14
Key Publics……………………………………………………………………………………………..16 Key Theme and Messages………………………………………………………………………………17 Communication Vehicles…………………………………………………………………………….….18 Designated Spokespersons…………………………………………………………………………...…19
Positioning………………………………………………………………………………………………20 Holding Statement………………………………………………………………………………………21 Fill-in-the-Blank Press Release………………………………………………………………………....22 Potential Q&A…………………………………………………………………………………………..24
Media Policies and Procedures…………………………………………………………………………29 Media Directory……………………………………………………………………………………...…30
Local, Regional and State Officials……………………………………………………………………..33 Emergency Personnel Contacts…………………………………………………………………………36 Crisis Control Room ……………..……………………………………………………………………..38
Collateral Materials……………………………………………………………………………………..40 Brochure on Sexual Assault and Rape: Tips on Prevention, Reporting and Resources………..40 Infographic: Rape Prevention and Safety Tips………………………………………………....42 Fact Sheet: Penn State University Park………………………………………………………...43 Fact Sheet: Rape………………………………………………………………………………..45 Photos…………………………………………………………………………………………..46
Internet Sources…………………………………………………………………………………………48 Dark Site………………………………………………………………………………………………...49
References……………………………………………………………………………………………....50
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
Introduction
Dear Penn State Faculty and Staff,
The Pennsylvania State University is pleased to provide the framework of our crisis communications plan that is to be used in conjunction with the press, family, friends and community members. Large universities like Penn State need to be aware of and respond to crises quickly and efficiently to ensure student, employee and public safety. Potential crises include murderers, rapists and other threats that include but are not limited to sexual assaults, bomb threats and campus shootings.
This crisis communication plan is crucial in diffusing a serial rapist crisis to minimize harm to the public as well as combat negative media attention to uphold the reputation of The Pennsylvania State University.
Our biggest concern is the protection and safety of students and community members, as it is vital to our mission as a university to ensure the campus environment is free from violence and crime. A plan has been devised on how to deal with a potential serial rapist on or around campus to make sure everyone is able to work together in keeping the public informed and solving the crisis at hand. By becoming familiar with the crisis plan, Penn State employees will be equipped to handle the situation with expertise.
In a crisis situation, if the plan is not followed, we will continue to put the public at risk by not properly disseminating information and diligently working to solve the crime. By acting lackadaisical when facing a crisis, we risk the reputation and brand of Penn State being tarnished. Thank you for your cooperation.
Sincerely,
Eric J. Barron President, The Pennsylvania State University
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
Statement from Management
Dear Penn State Employees,
The university has launched a full investigation into a series of recent on-campus and near-campus sexual assault cases that have been reported to campus authorities. It is believed that these recent sexual assaults are being committed by a serial rapist at large in the State College area based on evidence gathered at each crime scene.
As employees of the university, you will play an integral role in containing, managing and diffusing this crisis. Through a united effort, we can help victims of the crisis, keep our community safe and bring the perpetrator to justice. Your cooperation in crucial in this process.
We have a communications plan in place for handling the situation, and the crisis communications team will lead in implementing the plan. However, regardless of your position within the university, we need you to remain informed and aware of the situation so you are prepared to assist the team through your individual efforts. It is especially important to be aware of the following:
● How to alert authorities to crimes and/or suspicious activities ● Where to refer victims for help ● How to promote safety among the Penn State Community
We appreciate your support as we work through this crisis. We promise we are doing all we can to manage and resolve the situation, and that we are working towards a better future as a university. Please understand the elements of the crisis communications plan and contact your administrators with questions. More information is also available at https://sites.psu.edu/mockcrisis.
Thank you,
Eric J. Barron President, Penn State University
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
Acknowledgements
Members of the crisis communications team:
Thank you for your cooperation in the development of this crisis communication plan. It is crucial for the safety of the community that you read and understand the contents of the plan.
Please sign below if you have fully read the information contained in the plan. By signing, you recognize that you have read, understand and feel prepared to implement the specified procedures outlined in the crisis communications plan if necessary.
Please sign and deliver this agreement to your administrator as an acknowledgement of your understanding by December 15, 2017. You may contact our public relations team or your administrator with any questions or concerns.
By signing, I confirm that I have fully read and understand the below crisis communications plan and feel prepared to put the stated procedures into effect if necessary.
Name Title Signature Date
Eric Barron President and CEO
Nicholas P. Jones Executive Vice President and Provost
Lawrence H. Vice President Strategic Lokman Communications
Thomas PenKala Associate Director of the Board of Trustees
Laura Gilham Executive Assistant Strategic Communications
Lisa M. Powers Director of News and Media Relations
Rachel Pell Associate Vice President News and Media Relations
Zack Moore Vice President for Government and Community Relations
Keith Morris Chief of Police
Vicki Litzinger Victim Resource Officer
Brian Bittner Emergency Management Director
Kelly A. Mroz, Director of Student Legal Services Esquire
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
The Crisis Communications Team
The crisis communications team is comprised of those individuals who will be actively involved in the dissemination of information in the event of a serial rape crisis.
Name Title Email
Eric Barron President and CEO [email protected]
Nicholas P. Jones Executive Vice President and Provost [email protected]
Lawrence H. Vice President Strategic [email protected] Lokman Communications
Thomas PenKala Associate Director of the Board of [email protected] Trustees
Laura Gilham Executive Assistant Strategic [email protected] Communications
Lisa M. Powers Director of News and Media Relations [email protected]
Rachel Pell Associate Vice President News and [email protected] Media Relations
Zack Moore Vice President for Government and [email protected] Community Relations
Keith Morris Chief of Police [email protected]
Vicki Litzinger Victim Resource Officer [email protected]
Brian Bittner Emergency Management Director [email protected]
Kelly A. Mroz, Director of Student Legal Services [email protected] Esquire
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
Purpose and Objectives
The purpose of this crisis communications plan is to efficiently manage and quickly resolve the current serial rapist crisis at hand. We intend to do so by encouraging the unified effort of all Penn State community members to protect and defend our community.
Objectives of the plan include the following: ● To reach out to victims and offer them the assistance they need, physically and emotionally ● To educate at-risk publics and inform them of safety and precautionary measures they should take ● To implement and enable reporting procedures conducive to finding, stopping and capturing the serial rapist
In a crisis, open and honest disclosure with all stakeholders is stressed. Individuals can best protect themselves and the community when they are informed, aware and prepared. Stakeholders include all members of the Penn State community, as well as the media and the surrounding State College communities (discussed in detail further in this plan).
The University will not only work to overcome this crisis at the present time, but will also strive to learn from the crisis and prevent similar situations from occurring in the future. By following this crisis communications plan, the crisis communications team can manage the current situation, terminate the serial rapist crisis, learn prodromes for similar crises in the future and create a safe and secure environment for the entire Penn State community.
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
Sequence of Critical Events
This section provides a basic outline of what needs to happen before, during and after sexual assault incidents in a serial rapist crisis. The elements of this outline will be further explained throughout the crisis communications plan.
Leading Up to the Situation ● Inform employees and public of the serial rapist situation ● Inform employees and public of risks associated with the situation ● Inform employees and public of safety and preventative measures they should be taking ● Inform employees and public of what to do should a rape incident occur
During the Situation ● Use the pre-established reporting procedures at the onset of the situation ● Stabilize the situation and ensure the immediate safety of victims and witnesses ● Ensure that the victim has access to necessary care ● Communicate the situation to internal and external publics ● Preserve and collect all evidence
Follow-Up Events and Issues ● Follow-up with victims to ensure they are receiving necessary short-term and long-term care ● Continue to collect and analyze all evidence ● Make sure all stakeholders are on the same page regarding the incident ● Begin preparing to prevent the next potential incident
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
Crisis Scenario/Situation Analysis
This section provides a basic outline of the situation and the resources that will be critical to overcoming the crisis. The Crisis Scenario/Situation Analysis section is skeletal, designed only to help the crisis team take inventory of the situation. All points discussed in this section are explained in further detail throughout the crisis communications plan.
Situation Analysis List the facts of the situation, as you understand them: ● Series of on-campus and near-campus sexual assault cases ● Believed to be committed by a serial rapist in the State College area ● (Develop other aspects of the situation analysis based upon the specific case)
List the critical reputation-defining issues raised: ● Safety and protection of students on (and near) campus ● Penn State’s dedication to ensure protection and safety of students ● Vigilance of University and State College Police ● Enrollment to the University ● (Develop other aspects of the situation analysis based upon the specific case)
Identify groups, people, and organizations directly and indirectly affected: ● Victims of assault (in this case, primarily women) ● Students, local residents, and faculty ● Family members ● Local police and emergency responders ● (Develop other aspects of the situation analysis based upon the specific case)
Strategic Considerations What issues, concerns, and problems does the situation raise? ● Safety, protection, and security on (and near) campus ● Suspicious loitering on or near campus ● Immediate communication system, providing facts to the campus community ● Evaluation of medical and therapy services available to all students ● Prevention plans and programs ● (Develop other considerations based upon the specific case)
Critical management decisions that must be made quickly: Operational response/action steps: ● Determine the level of emergency ● Determine if campus evacuation or lockdown is necessary ● Confirm immediate safety and necessary services to victims and family members ● Work with police to ensure a thorough investigation ● (Develop other action steps based upon the specific case) Critical management decisions that must be made quickly: Communication response/action steps: ● Activate The Penn State Alert Procedure
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
● Assign designated spokespersons ● Determine key communication vehicles and procedures ● Effectively communicate threats to the safety of our campus community ● Control the message and flow of information ● Ensure all crisis communication team members understand university policies, positions and key messages ● (Develop other action steps based upon the specific case)
Key Themes/Specific Messages ● “We Are Community” ● Emphasize a collaborative effort to look out for one another and protect the Penn State Community ● Advise students to be aware of support and prevention resources on campus ● (Details contained in this plan)
Holding Statements ● Alert the public with all known information ● Explain what officials are doing to handle the situation ● Advise students, faculty, staff and other community members on what they should be doing throughout the crisis ● Emphasize sympathy, unity, and encouragement ● (Details contained in this plan)
Q&A ● Be prepared to answer the most likely, challenging, and difficult questions about the situation ● Refer to pages Q&A section of the Crisis Communication Plan for potential questions and answers ● (Details contained in this plan)
Response Team ● Refer to established Crisis Communication Team ● Refer to Alert Procedure when deciding the communication awareness steps ● (Details contained in this plan)
Tools ● Penn State will reach out to community members directly and indirectly ● We will make announcements to all impacted by the crisis via traditional outlets, thus reaching the public, but we will also have resources available to individuals actively seeking information ● Please refer to the Communication Vehicles section of this plan
Student Resources: ● Establish 24-hour rape crisis hotline service available to students and employees
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
● Provide confidential crisis counseling with qualified employees, as well as medical and legal services ● University police (814-863-1111) ● State College police (814-234-7150) ● Mount Nittany Medical Center (814-234-6110) ● University Health Services: General Medicine (814-863-0774) and Women’s Health Department (814-863-2633) ● Counselling and Psychological Services (814-863-0395) ● Gender Equity Center (814-863-2027) ● Women’s Resource Center (814-234-5050; 877-234-5050 24-hour hotline) ● Sexual Assault and Relationship Violence Hotline (1-800-550-7575) ● (Details and contact information contained in this plan)
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
Alert Procedure
ACTIVATING THE PENN STATE ALERT PROCEDURE
As part of its crisis preparedness planning, the crisis management team established procedures for Penn State so that employees are aware of the need for reporting and have the know-how to alert the necessary authorities to any incidents which may have the potential of becoming a crisis for Penn State. A crisis is defined as any event that does the following: ● Involves potential or actual loss of life or serious injury to consumers, employees, customers or others affected Penn State operations ● Causes significant damage to Penn State assets and necessitates at least a temporary interruption or shutdown of normal operations ● Presents potential for a significant adverse effect on Penn State’s operations, reputation or business performance
When an incident has occurred that has the potential to cause or heighten a crisis, the following steps must be taken by the individual who first becomes aware of the situation. These steps will aid in the management of the situation.
Employee becomes aware of event
↓
Alerts University and local police of incident
↓
Alerts Victim Resource Officer, Detective Vicki Litzinger
↓
Informs Director of News and Media Relations, Lisa M. Powers
↓
Alerts member of the Crisis Communications Team: VP of Strategic Communications, Lawrence Lokman. Lokman starts telephone tree
↓
Lawrence Lokman immediately briefs President Barron. Conference call with Director of News and Media Relations, Lisa M. Powers
↓
Appointment including Lawrence Lokman and the rest of the Crisis Communications Team
↓
Lawrence Lokman and the Crisis Communications team initiates Response Plan
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
Incident Identification Form
BLANK INCIDENT IDENTIFICATION FORM:
Type of incident:
Details of incident:
Actions taken:
Support required:
Media involvement to date:
Contact details:
SAMPLE INCIDENT IDENTIFICATION FORM:
Type of incident: Rape
Details of incident: The incident occurred on December 5, 2017 at approximately 11:30 p.m. at the northeast portion of Bigler Road. The victim, whose name will remain confidential pending investigation, reported the incident to Penn State Police & Public Safety officials the following morning, December 6, at 9:30 a.m.
Actions taken: Penn State Police & Public Safety officials are investigating the incident thoroughly, as it is believed to be a part of a two-year ongoing serial rape case occurring in the University Park/State College area. Witnesses, Penn State personnel and the police are working together on this matter.
Support required: We are asking for anyone who may have any information about the serial rapist to call (814) 863-1111. We are also asking for the community to continue watching out for one another to ensure a safe environment within State College.
Media involvement to date: We have been contacted by several media outlets; however, we are unable to release specific information at this time. The media has been respectful and we ask for their continued cooperation as we move forward with the investigation.
Contact details: (814) 863-111 - University Park Police 1-800-560-1637 - Penn State Hotline (814) 863-0823 - Victim Resource Officer, Det. Vicki Litzinger
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
Risk Assessment Form
RISK ASSESSMENT CHECKLIST
CONTROL PROBABILITY IMPACT
Low/Medium/High Low/Medium/High Low/Medium/High PEOPLE RELATED Rape Low High Medium Sexual Assault Low High Medium Health and Safety Issues Low High Medium Physical Assault Low Medium Medium Kidnap Low Low Medium Mental Health Problems Low High Low Suicide Low Low High UNIVERSITY RELATED Enrollment Low Low High Activists Low Low Low Lawsuits Low Low High Image Medium Medium High
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
Telephone Tree
The following names are to be contacted immediately in the case of a crisis. The personnel listed consist of the President’s Council, Office of the Board of Trustees, University Police and Public Safety, and the Public Relations team. The first person to be contacted on this list is to be the President of Penn State, Eric J. Barron and then he is to call the next person. Please continue in the order listed below.
Work Phone Cell Phone Email Presidents Council
Eric Barron President, CEO 814-865-7611 555-556-7171 [email protected] Nicholas P. Jones Executive Vice President and Provost 814-865-2505 555-656-7273 [email protected] Janine S. Andrews Director, Office of the Board of Trustees and Associate Secretary 814-865-2521 555-765-7372 [email protected] Anne (Sandy) Barbour Director of Intercollegiate Athletics 814-866-8455 555-746-8467 [email protected] Mary G. Beahm Interim Vice President for Human Resources (814) 863-6188 555-846-2453 [email protected] Kathleen Bieschke Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs 814-865-3296 555-746-3456 [email protected] David J. Gray Senior Vice President for Finance and Business/Treasurer 814-865-6574 555-835-1894 [email protected] Michael J. Kubit Vice President for Information Technology/Chief Information Officer 814-865-3540 555-823-3799 [email protected]
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
Lawrence H. Lokman Vice President for Strategic Communications 814-865-4100 555-444-3333 [email protected] Rachel Pell Associate Vice President for News and Media Relations 814-865-7517 555-847-9473 [email protected] Zack Moore Vice President for Government and Community Relations 814-865-6563 555-999-2222 [email protected] Office of Board of Trustees Thomas J. PenKala Associate Director 814-865-2555 555-378-0986 [email protected] Ann M. Wyatt Administrative Assistant 814-865-9382 555-874-2111 [email protected] Shelly Ziegler-Byers Staff Assistant 814-865-9021 555-444-2345 [email protected] University Police and Public Safety Keith Morris Chief of Police 814-863-2521 555-383-0876 [email protected] Thomas Sowerby Deputy of Police 814-863-2137 555-090-3845 [email protected] Brian Bittner Emergency Management Director 814-867-3430 555-090-0943 [email protected] Dave Jones EMS Manager 814-865-1772 555-090-3456 [email protected] Vicki Litzinger Victim Resource Officer 814-863-0823 555-837-9214 [email protected]
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
Key Publics
This list of key publics, both internal and external, are to be regularly updated and communicated to throughout the duration of the crisis. Notifying key publics, so that they are aware of the present situation, is one of the first steps in resolving a crisis and creating an open dialogue. It is important to keep publics updated at regular intervals to maintain an open and honest dialogue throughout the entirety of the crisis.
The internal publics include the President and his Council, the Board of Trustees, professors, employees of the University, students, alumni, and shareholders.
● Eric J. Barron, President ● Nicolas P. Jones, Executive Vice President and Provost ● Janine S. Andrews, Director, Office of the Board of Trustees and Associate Secretary ● Thomas W. Wolf, Governor of the Commonwealth ● Cynthia A. Dunn, Secretary of Department of Conservation and Natural Resources ● Russell C. Redding, Secretary of Agriculture ● Pedro A. Rivera, Secretary of Education ● Office of the Board of Trustees ○ Thomas J. Penkala, Associate Director, Office of the Board of Trustees ○ Ann M. Wyatt, Administrative Assistant, Office of the Board of Trustees ○ Shelly Zeigler-Byers, Staff Assistant, Office of the Board of Trustees ● Shareholders ● Investors ● Professors ● Other University faculty and staff ● Alumni ● Students
The external publics can be notified through different channels. The external publics include the media, competitors, the State College community, government and public officials.
● Employees of State College ● State College community ● Local elementary and high schools ● Government officials ● Public officials ● Communities surrounding State College ● Legal Representatives ● Competing universities ● Media ● State College community leaders
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
Key Theme and Messages
Key Theme:
The key theme of our crisis communications plan is “We Are a Community.” Members of a community look out for one another as well as ensure the protection and support of all its members, and in times of crisis, strive to do everything to aid those affected. The Penn State Community must stay united to maintain the utmost safety of our campus. Through collaborative effort, Penn Staters can protect their community and all the individuals that encompass it, and eliminate crime.
Key Message:
Our crisis communications plan emphasizes the following ideas:
Penn State strives to create a safe environment for all. To ensure the safety of all individuals of the Penn State Community, individuals should:
● Protect Yourself: Be aware of your surroundings and use caution when walking on campus alone. Be aware of how to use the Emergency Phones and their locations. At night, it’s advised that individuals use only the routes highlighted by the University Night Map and walk with a buddy. https://police.psu.edu/emergency-telephones
● See Something, Say Something: Always report suspicious behavior! We must take efforts to protect one another as members of a united community. Contact University Police to report a crime or suspicious behavior at (814) 863-1111. ● Support & Prevent: Penn State cares about its community members. There are plenty of on- campus safety resources for students who are victim of a crime. If you are a victim of a crime, contact the University Police Resource Officer, Det. Vicki Litzinger at 814-863-0823. If you are a victim of sexual assault, contact the support staff at The Centre County Women’s Resource Center at (814) 234-5050. For more victim resources, visit: https://police.psu.edu/victim- resources.
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
Communication Vehicles
This section provides a basic list of communication vehicles for reaching out to internal and external publics. The list is not exhaustive but serves as a starting point for communications. These elements are described in more detail throughout the crisis communications plan.
Communication Vehicles for Students and the Public: ● Media reports ● News releases ● Statements ● PSUAlert system ● Personal letters to victims and victims’ families ● Letters and emails to specific publics ● Dark site ● Press conferences ● Announcements on campus ● Social media ● Others as necessary
Communication Vehicles for Employees: ● Faculty and staff meetings ● Email ● Letters ● Newsletters ● Statements ● PSUAlert system ● Media reports ● News releases ● Telephone calls ● Others as necessary
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
Designated Spokespersons
The designated spokespersons are those individuals who will be looked to to address the public. If for any reason one of the spokespersons is not available, one of the others will be prepared to step forward.
President Eric J. Barron
Eric J. Barron is the current President of Penn State. He has served as President since February 17, 2014 but has nearly 35 years of leadership experience in academic administration, education, research and public service. President Barron focuses on six aspects of education to improve student experiences: Access and Affordability, Economic Development and Student Career Success, Student Engagement, Excellence, Diversity and Demographics as well as, Technology. As president, Barron is a non- voting member of the Penn State Board of Trustees.
Keith Morris
Keith Morris is the chief of police at Penn State’s University Park campus and is responsible for the overall management and administration of security and police operations on campus. He oversees over 50 sworn officers, responds to emergency situations and coordinates with University leadership and local law enforcement officials. He started as patrol officer in 1997 and was promoted along the way to patrol sergeant, patrol captain, captain of investigations and assistant chief of Support Services.
Vicki Litzinger
Detective Vicki Litzinger is the Victim Resource Officer at Penn State. Litzinger is responsible for assisting anyone who has been a victim of or witness to a crime. She assists individuals in finding support programs and services beneficial to each individual case. She can direct callers to sexual assault and relationship violence hotlines, medical centers, emotional support services, student misconduct complaints, police and more.
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
Positioning
The positioning statement details how the crisis communications team plans to position the organization in the minds of the stakeholders during the crisis. In this particular situation, the team feels that it is best to frame the situation as a heinous act outside the control of the University. However, although the University had no control of the onset of the problem, Penn State is doing everything it can to end the crisis while protecting and helping the Penn State Community while learning from the crisis. The following is a letter from President Barron communicating the positioning statement.
Penn State Community:
The recent incidents that have occurred at Penn State University are heinous acts of violence committed by an unidentified individual who remains at large. As a united University, we will not sit back and let acts as such continue to happen on our campus. In order to combat the situation at hand, we intend to get in front of the perpetrator to ensure the safety of all of those in our community. Going forward, there will be campus police officers stationed in all open buildings after regular class hours, as well as officers present and walking throughout campus along not only the Night Route and emergency phones but in areas of campus we believe may be more at risk for attacks. If you feel unsafe walking alone at night, you can call a police escort to walk you home from either a stationed Emergency Blue Phone or by calling the University Campus Police at (814) 863-1111. We also encourage individuals who do not take advantage of our Night-Walk system to utilize the buddy system and walk in well-lit areas.
In addition to revamping our safety standards, we are also encouraging students to take advantage of Penn State’s Social Media Hub to report crimes, suspicious behavior or any information pertaining to any of the recent attacks that have occurred on our campus. The Social Media Office can be contacted by phone at (814) 865-7515 or via email at [email protected]. More information on how to report information and the format in which it should be reported can be found at socialmedia.psu.edu. We believe that with quick and accurate dissemination of information we can prevent future attacks from happening and keep the community up-to-date with the incidents related to this crisis.
The safety of the individuals of the Penn State Community is of utmost importance. As a University, we appreciate the cooperation of the community to not only keep each other safe but to combat these heinous acts by quickly reporting and disseminating information community-wide. Thank you for your efforts and understanding in this time of crisis.
Thank you,
Eric J. Barron President, Penn State University
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
Holding Statement
Good Morning,
I am ______, spokesperson for the Pennsylvania State University.
On ______(Wednesday December 6 at 9:30 a.m.) a rape was reported to the Pennsylvania State University Police & Public Safety office. The incident occurred in the ______(northeast portion of campus) along ______(Bigler Road) at ______(approximately 11:30 p.m. the night prior to: Tuesday, December 5.) We believe this incident is not isolated, as throughout the duration of this fall semester there have been a string of sexual assaults that authorities have reason to believe are related due to evidence. In the Borough of State College, there has been a serial rapist at large for approximately two years, and the recent crimes share similarities with those of the serial rapist’s former attacks. University Officials are working diligently to identify the attacker. In the meantime, there will be Auxiliary Officers present throughout campus and in every building on campus after usual class hours.
Authorities are currently working with victims and witnesses, from both recent and past crimes, to gather and recall more information from prior incidents in order to identify the suspect at large. Currently, the only information we have about the suspect is that the individual is male, stands at approximately 6 foot 3 inches and is middle-aged, within the range of 35-50 years old. A sketch artist is working on developing a sketch of the suspect illustrating details gathered in further recall strategies. As a University, we also have support programs available for victims and are doing everything we can to aid them during this time. We ask that individuals respect the privacy of those affected in this crisis.
Campus Officials recommend that students utilize the routes highlighted in the University Night Map when walking on campus after hours and ensure they know WHERE emergency phones are located and HOW to use them. Students are also encouraged to report any suspicious activity or any information they believe is related to this series of incidents. In times of crisis, it is of utmost importance that the Penn State Community stay united and work together in supporting one another and eliminating crime from our campus. For more information and updates, please visit https://sites.psu.edu/mockcrisis.
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
The Pennsylvania State University 1 Old Main University Park, PA, 16802 (814) 867-3351 (814) 234-5467 (FAX) Rachel Pell 555-847-9473 [email protected] FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WOMAN ATTACKED BY PENN STATE SERIAL RAPIST
STATE COLLEGE, Pa., (DATE) - A serial rapist, who has remained at large for (#) years, sexually assaulted a Penn State student on (DATE). This is the attacker’s (#) victim. The incident reportedly took place in the (LOCATION) of campus adjacent to
(BUILDING/REFERENCE LOCATION), in (CAMPUS LOCATION). Out of respect for the privacy of the victim, the identity will not be disclosed.
This incident is not isolated, as there is evidence to support that this crime is a part of a series of related crimes committed by one individual. The first attack occurred (DATE), about
(#) years ago. Since then, (#) other females have been attacked on or near Penn State University
Park. Investigators have been pursuing several leads as they work to bring the perpetrator to justice; however, authorities are not yet releasing information regarding suspect names.
-more-
PENN STATE SERIAL RAPIST
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
2-2-2
Authorities believe that the attacker is a (SUSPECT CHARACTERISTICS). He has a pattern of (SUSPECT CHARACTERISTICS), and it has been reported to Campus Police that he carried a weapon during past incidents.
The State College Police Department and Penn State University have been working tediously to support the victims and assist victims and witnesses in recalling information about the attacker in order to identify the suspect. Authorities encourage students to be aware of their surroundings at all times, use the routes highlighted by the University Night Map when walking at night and avoid walking alone. If anybody has any information that could be helpful in identifying this individual, please contact Penn State University Police at (814) 863-1111.
If you are a victim of rape or sexual assault, please contact Penn State University Health
Services for support at (814) 863-0774 or The Centre County Women’s Resource Center at (814)
234-5050. Updates and other information are available at https://sites.psu.edu/mockcrisis.
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
Potential Questions and Answers
Spokespersons must be prepared to answer the questions of all audiences including but not limited to the media, students, parents, State College residents, faculty and staff. The following questions are examples of questions audiences may ask. In all cases, spokespersons should be open, willing and able to disclose all verified information that will not put individuals at unnecessary risk. If a spokesperson does not know the answer to an individual’s question, that spokesperson should admit that he or she does not know the answer, assure the questioner that the inquiry will be explored, then report back to the questioner/audience with the answer when it is obtained.
1. When do you believe the first attack from the serial rapist occurred? We believe that the first attack from the serial rapist happened about two years ago. Rapes since then have been sporadic with loose patterns in time of day and location. Patterns in other evidence offer the strong indication that the incidents are connected and caused by a single serial rapist. A full list of incidents, as well as the suspect’s profile and MO can be found at https://sites.psu.edu/mockcrisis. The acts of the serial rapist are heinous and unwelcome in our Penn State community. We are doing all we can to bring the perpetrator to justice.
2. Do you have any leads to the identity of the rapist? As this is an ongoing investigation, we are currently unable to release any names to the public. However, based on descriptions by the victims and witnesses we believe that the rapist is (describe rapist here--student or not, physical description, characteristics, etc.). When we have more information, we will update the public. (Substitute information as appropriate for the case)
3. Is the attacker potentially a student? Though the attacker is unknown at this point, we are not ruling anyone out. We are performing a full investigation to ensure safety and accountability within the Penn State community.
4. Do you notice any patterns or similarities between recent crimes? At this time, we are focusing on protecting the victims during this investigation. Any details regarding a trend will be released if found.
5. What are the police doing to catch the rapist? We have people working around the clock on this case; interviewing the victims, patrolling campus and downtown, gathering information and following any and all leads. We strongly encourage the public to report any information they may have about these attacks to the State College Police Department at (814) 234-7150.
6. When and where have the rapes occurred? Although not all of the rapes have occurred at the same times and/or places, though incidents have typically taken place after dark. Assaults were reported in shadowed areas on or near campus, and in each case the woman was travelling alone when she was overpowered. The assaults are more frequent on weekends than they are on weekdays. Individuals are advised to avoid risky situations by following the safety tips available at https://sites.psu.edu/mockcrisis. A full list of incidents, as well as the suspect’s profile and MO can be found on the website as well. (Substitute information as appropriate for the case)
7. Has President Barron released a statement on the situation?
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
President Barron has released a statement denouncing the actions that have taken place. Barron also encouraged students and faculty to be safe during this time and report any suspicious behavior. The full statement can be found on the president’s website under “Speeches and Commentary.” The website is https://president.psu.edu
8. How have you helped the most recent victim’s family get through this case? Our personnel have been staying in close contact with the victim and her family to ensure she is getting all the help she needs to recover from this assault and to identify the suspect. The family asks that we not disclose any personal information in respect of the needs of the victim.
9. Are the dorms safe? Penn State dorms are equipped with an electronic/computerized card access security system that has recently been updated. University housing is locked 24 hours a day, and students must use their id+ Cards to gain access to their assigned buildings. In addition, the dorms are under surveillance continuously and have Auxiliary Officers on duty. Students must play their part in maintaining dorm safety by refraining from letting unknown individuals into residences, and should always keep their dorm rooms locked.
10. Is the campus going to close? The campus will not be closed at this time. The crisis is being managed, and with the efforts of the Penn State community and the police, the campus is deemed safe for classes and university activities. Should this scenario change, the situation will be re-evaluated.
11. How will students’ education be affected by this crisis? Penn State is still fully functioning as a university, and classes are still in session. The quality of students’ education will not be affected despite increased safety measures and officials on campus.
12. How can students protect themselves while there is still a rapist at large? Students should be vigilant and aware of their surroundings. They should try to avoid walking alone whenever possible and should travel in groups at night. Students should also make sure that they lock their doors and windows. If students see anything suspicious they should activate the blue light system if they can or contact the State College Police Department at (814) 234-7150 or 911 if it is an emergency. These safety tips are useful not only during a crisis, but at all other times as well. Find more safety tips at https://sites.psu.edu/mockcrisis.
13. Does Penn State have any existing systems to enhance safety on campus? The Penn State Police department works hard to ensure maximum safety on campus and strives to be accessible and responsive. Emergency phones are located throughout the campus and are easily recognized by their blue lights. If at any point an individual feels threatened on campus, they can pick up the receiver and/or push the button on those phones to activate the phone and be connected with University police. In addition, emergency phones are located near the entrance of all residence halls and have the capability of calling the police. Police regularly survey the campus, and students have the option to use the Safe Walk program if they feel unsafe walking on campus.
14. Do you feel that the Blue Light System helps students feel safe campus? Yes. We strive to provide a safe environment for our students, which is why there are 81 blue light systems installed throughout Penn State’s campus. At freshman orientation we stress how important it is for students to recognize the locations where they can find these blue light systems to use in case of an emergency. Students press the emergency button on the blue light system
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
pole, which then calls the university police and connects them with an officer through the speaker. However, these safety measures are only useful if used. Penn State community members, please be aware of this tool and how to use it.
15. Is the University planning on building upon the safety procedures and programs already in place, such as PSUAlert, Safe Walk, Blue Lights and the Night Route in the efforts to increase campus security overall after this crisis? As a University we believe that in order to resolve a crisis or get to the bottom of a crime, an entity must stay in front of the action. We believe the increased effectiveness of our alert system complemented by our Social Media Hub will help us expand upon and improve the safety procedures going forward by allowing us to update the Penn State Community in a more timely manner. We also plan on expanding upon the Night Route by installing more lamp posts around campus, thus illuminating more pathways. There has been discussion of installing security cameras overlooking these main routes to assist in solving any future crimes; however, that has not yet been confirmed.
16. Is the cost of all the increased safety efforts going to affect tuition? Penn State has a budget for safety and is willing to extend the necessary funds to create the safest environment possible. Funds may have to be reallocated as we face this crisis because we feel that student safety is important and critical to a successful educational environment. The long- term financial effects of the crisis are yet to be determined, but the university strives to do what is best for students regarding safety, finances and all other aspects. Students, parents, faculty and all other stakeholders will be updated during and after this situation.
17. How does Penn State Sexual Assault and Relationship Violence Hotline work? Our hotline is available 24/7 to all Penn State campuses. Students can call 1-800-560-1637 or TTY: 1-866-714- 7177 for the hearing impaired. Callers are directed to specialists on the hotline to discuss their situation and may be transferred to a nurse from UHS Clinical Services at 1-814- 863-4463. Services for sexual assault victims are provided by UHS Clinical Services and are always available to victims regardless of the duration of time since the assault took place.
18. How are you ensuring that accurate information regarding the rape case is being reported and disseminated as quickly as possible? We are encouraging community members to report information to both the local authorities as well as Penn State’s Social Media Hub--we are then able to collect information pertaining to the crisis in real time and keep students updated. There is a format available online detailing how individuals should go about submitting their tips to keep the information organized. Read more at http://socialmedia.psu.edu.
19. How can students, faculty and staff know when and where incidents occur so they can be aware of the situation and take measures to protect themselves? PSUAlert is the University-wide emergency messaging system. It notifies Penn State individuals of dangerous situations via email, telephone or text alert as soon as those situations are reported and processed. To sign up to receive these notifications, visit https://psualert.psu.edu/psualert
20. What if you’re not a Penn State student, faculty member or staff member, how can you stay up to date and aware of the situation?
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The PSUAlert system is reserved for students, faculty and staff; however, any member of the public can follow alerts via Facebook or Twitter. Access information is provided: Twitter: @PSUAlertUP Facebook: facebook.com/pennstate Updates will also be posted for the public at https://sites.psu.edu/mockcrisis.
21. If you are a victim of rape, what does Penn State do to help? Detective Vicki Litzinger is the University Police Victim Resource Officer. She and the University Police can advise individuals and help them find programs and services that might be of assistance in such circumstance. The contact number is 814-863-0823.
22. Is Penn State covering victim medical expenses? Penn State authorities and support program professionals are helping victims case by case. Detective Vicki Litzinger, the University Police Victim Resource Officer, can help victims get the legal help they may need to obtain the remedies due to them under the circumstances. Her contact number is 814-863-0823.
23. What can the community do to help? We are asking the community to respect the privacy of the victims at this time. However, if any community members can provide insight or information regarding the serial rapist attacks, please contact Penn State Police.
24. What is the situation surrounding sexual assault at Penn State? According to Penn State Student Affairs, about 100 students report sexual assaults on Penn State’s University Park campus each year. Generally, 99 of those students are females. Violence in relationships and sexual offenses are issues in all universities, as well as in society. Penn State is no exception to these struggles, and because it is a public university, these issues are often more publicized here, despite the fact that they still occur in other settings. We strive to provide education and support to prevent these cases and be a leader in the cause to end all sexual violence.
25. How do Penn State’s sexual assault statistics compare to other universities? According to a 2012 survey conducted by U.S. Department of Education, Penn State ranks among the top with the most sexual assault cases with 84 cases ranging from 2010-2012. After that study, Penn State took great efforts to improve the situation. Along with emergency telephones, the Safe Walk program and other tools, Penn State set up hotlines that victims can call and created a better atmosphere for reporting.
26. How do you think enrollment for the upcoming school year will be affected with this case being so public? This should not impact enrollment. We are a strong university and are dedicating all our time to getting this case under control while considering what we can do to prevent similar circumstances in the future. The students’ safety is always a priority.
27. Why would any parent want to send their child to Penn State in light of these circumstances? All college campuses face risk and Penn State is no exception. However, Penn State has high standards for mitigating that risk. The University has had safety measures in place for years; University officials and law officials have increased security since the onset of the case and will continue to do so until the perpetrator is brought to justice. With the cooperation of students and
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
other community members, the campus remains safe. If at any time the campus is deemed to be in excessive risk, appropriate measures will be taken. All current io;;;;and new students have received/will receive communications on how to prevent and avoid dangerous situations. For more information on these safety tips, please visit https://sites.psu.edu/mockcrisis
28. Penn State struggled to handle the Sandusky sexual abuse case in the past. How is the University going to handle this situation? The current situation is unrelated to the Sandusky scandal, but the University has learned several important lessons from that case. The public can be assured that all developments to this serial rape case will be announced when they are verified and approved for release by the police. Our priority is protecting our community members, and we believe we can best do that through transparency and cooperation. We are doing everything we can to meet our high ethical, moral and legal obligations while protecting the privacy of those involved in the incidents.
29. What precautions will Penn State take in the future to better prevent sexual assault? As a heinous act of the perpetrator, the onset of this crisis was beyond the control of the University. However, Penn State is taking initiatives to end the crisis and prevent similar circumstances in the future. Penn State will re-evaluate the measures already in place to better handle and prevent sexual assault on campus. As of right now, Penn State has established a task force that focuses on sexual assault and outlines the different resources provided on campus and initiatives Penn State has in place. For more information the link to the report is: http://www.psu.edu/ur/2014/Task_Force_final_report.pdf
30. There are reports of sexual assault all the time at Penn State. Why didn’t the university act on the issue of sexual assault before the serial rapist crisis? Penn State has always strived to create a safe, inclusive environment for education. The University has had preventative measures, support systems and hotlines in place to prevent and respond to sexual assault cases for many years. Recently, due to the serial rapist crisis, those preexisting programs have been expanded upon. Just because we are emphasizing and improving those tools does not mean they did not previously exist. We are working to end the crisis, and after that is done, we will be left with a stronger, safer Penn State.
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Media Policies and Procedures
At The Pennsylvania State University, we value our relationships with reporters, editors and all media representatives because we understand that the media plays an essential role in informing the community to promote continued public support for the university. Effective media relations will best serve the university by informing the public with accuracy, timeliness, transparency and integrity in crisis situations.
It is under policy of The Pennsylvania State University that The Office of the Vice President for Strategic Communication will oversee the development and application of all communication strategies. Successful communication efforts stem from the ability to communicate one consistent voice and coordinated message. In order to do so, no external organizations will be hired without approval from The Office of the Vice President for Strategic Communication.
The hiring of staff responsible for all communication and media relations will be done under the supervision of The Office of the Vice President for Strategic Communication, with specific consultation with The Vice President for Strategic Communications. The crisis communications team will determine the appropriate vehicles and platforms to communicate information and their priority order.
In the event of a major crisis, it is essential that an effective communications plan be put into immediate action. The priority will be on maintaining timely and open communication with the media, as well as providing accurate and honest information. A designated communication center will be established as a workspace for media personnel. The communication center will be equipped with necessary technology and resources. Please see the Crisis Control Room section of this plan for more information on where the crisis communications team will have prepared areas to address the media.
Other Policies should be referenced, especially the following: ● Conducting Educational Programs Using the Name of the University ● Acceptable Use of University Information Resources ● Use of University Name, Symbols and/or Graphic Devices ● Purchase of Advertising ● Video Productions (Formerly Audio/Visual Productions for Public Relations and Information Purposes) ● Web Page Design and Image
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Media Directory
Media Outlet: Contact Name/Position: Phone Number Email:
ABC News Dawn Piros, Producer 212-456-4110 [email protected]
Stephanie Ramos, Reporter 212-456-4110 [email protected]
CBS News Jane Chick, Producer 212-975-2881 newspath@cbs.com
CBS News Radio Aliah Git, Producer 212-975-2021 [email protected]
NBC News Tom Pohs, National News 704-329-8730 [email protected] Producer
Mike McFeeters, National 704-329-8730 [email protected] Assignment Manager m
NBC News Radio Mark Woolsey, Reporter 404-875-8080 markwoolsey@iheartmedia. com
CNN Beth Camp-Carter, Director 404-827-0974 [email protected] of CNN Newsource
FOX News Ashley Asquino, Producer 212-301-3000 [email protected] m
USA Today Beth Belton, Page One Editor 703-854-4449 [email protected]
John Bacon, Rewrite Chief 703-854-3656 [email protected]
The New York Times Peter Applebome, Deputy 212-556-7356 [email protected] National Editor
The Washington Post Keith Alexander, 202-334-7796 [email protected] Crime/Violence: Courts Staff om Writer
Travis Andrews, Morning Mix 202-334-7400 [email protected] Reporter om
The Huffington Post Jenna Amatulli, Trends 212-652-6400 [email protected] Reporter m
The Daily News Steve Kiggins, Executive 435-414-4566 [email protected] Editor
Good Morning Michael Corn, Senior 212-456-0600 [email protected] America Executive Producer
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TODAY Show Hoda Kotb, Host 212-664-3724 hoda.kotb@nbc.com
NPR Noah Adams, National Desk 202-513-2200 [email protected] Contributing Correspondent
Nicole Beemsterboer, Senior 202-513-2200 [email protected] Producer; Investigations Unit
CBS Morning News Tony DiPolvere, 212-975-2824 [email protected] Senior/Broadcast Producer
CBS Evening News Brinda Adhikari, Senior 212-975-3247 [email protected] Producer
NBC Nightly News Miguel Almaguer, National 212-664-4971 [email protected] Correspondent m
Reuters Jonathan Allen, National 646-223-6000 [email protected] News Correspondent
60 Minutes Jeffrey Fager, Executive 212-975-1073 [email protected] Producer
Penn Live David Farre, Reporter N/A [email protected]
Centre Daily Times Lori Falce, Deputy Editor 814-235-3910 [email protected]
ABC 23 (Johnstown) Submit General Inquiry 814-266-8088
WJAC (Johnstown) Submit General Inquiry 814-255-7650 [email protected]
WTAJ (Altoona, State Submit General Inquiry 814-942-1010 [email protected] College Johnstown,) 800-762-6053 (news tipline)
WATM-TV Submit General Inquiry 814-949-8823
FOX 8 (Johnstown) Submit General Inquiry 814-266-8088
ABC27 (Harrisburg) Submit General Inquiry 717-236-1444 [email protected]
Fox 43 (Harrisburg) Submit General Inquiry 717-843-0043 [email protected]
WEAU Terry McHugh, General 715-852-1558 [email protected] Manager/VP
Penn State News Director of News/Media N/A [email protected] (news.psu.edu) Relations, Lisa M. Powers
The Daily Collegian Samantha Ruland, Editor-in- N/A [email protected] Chief om
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The Underground Adriana Lacy, Editor-in-Chief 610-969-9448 [email protected]
Onward State Elissa Hill, Editor-in-Chief N/A [email protected]
WPSU-TV Matt Caracappa, public 814-863-0238 [email protected] relations specialist
Altoona Mirror Neil Rudel, Managing Editor 814-946-7527 [email protected]
CBS Pittsburgh Submit General Inquiry
Pittsburgh Post Gazette Molly Born, County News 412-263-1944 [email protected] Reporter
WTAE (Pittsburgh) Submit General Inquiry 412-244-4444 [email protected]
WPXI (Pittsburgh) Submit General Inquiry 412-237-1100 [email protected]
TribLIVE Susan McFarland, Executive 724-836-6675 [email protected] Editor
6ABC (Philadelphia) Submit General Inquiry 215-878-9700
CBS Philly Submit General Inquiry
NBC 10 Philadelphia Submit General Inquiry 610-668-5510
WTXF, FOX 29 (Tri-State Submit General Inquiry 215-982-5500 [email protected] Area)
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Local, Regional and State Officials
Elizabeth Goreham Mayor, State College (until January 2018) Cell: (814) 834-7766 Home: (814) 675-5544 Work: (814) 234-7100 Email: [email protected]
Don Hahn Mayor, State College (beginning January 2018) Personal: (814) 360-5176 Work: (814) 231-1850 Email: [email protected]
Tom Wolf Governor of Pennsylvania Cell: (610) 998-8443 Home: (610) 844-5353 Work: 717-787-2500 Email: [email protected]
Thomas Daubert State College Borough Council President Work: (814) 234-7110 Email: [email protected]
Jesse Barlow State College Borough Council Member Work: (814) 234-7110 Email: [email protected]
David Brown State College Borough Council Member Work: (814) 234-7110 Email: [email protected]
Janet Engeman State College Borough Council Member Work: (814) 234-7110 Email: [email protected]
Catherine Dauler State College Borough Council Member Work: (814) 234-7110 Email: [email protected]
Theresa Lafer State College Borough Council Member Work: (814) 234-7110
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Email: [email protected]
Evan Meyers State College Borough Council Member Work: (814) 234-7110 Email: [email protected]
Michael Pipe Chair County Commissioner Work: (814) 355-6700 Email: [email protected]
Mark Higgins Vice-Chair County Commissioner Work: (814) 355-6700 Email: [email protected]
Steven Dershem County Commissioner Work: (814) 355-6700 Email: [email protected]
Scott Conklin PA Representatives serving Centre County Work (State College): (814) 238-5477 Work (Philipsburg): (814) 342-4872 Work (Harrisburg): (717) 787-9473 Email: [email protected]
Jake Corman Majority Leader of the Pennsylvania State Senate Serving the 34th District Work (Harrisburg): (717) 787-1377 Work (Bellefonte): (814) 355-0477 Email: [email protected]
Pat Toomey Junior U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania Work (Harrisburg): (717) 782-3951 Work (Washington D.C.): (202) 224-4254 Email: [email protected]
Bob Casey, Jr. Senior U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania Work (Harrisburg): (717) 231-7540 Work (Washington D.C.): (202) 224-6324 Email: [email protected]
Glenn Thompson U.S. Representative for Pennsylvania's 5th Congressional District Work (Bellefonte): (814) 353-0215 Work (Washington D.C.): (202) 225-5121
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Email: [email protected]
Ted Kirsch President of American Federation of Teachers Pennsylvania Work: 717-238-9351 Email: [email protected]
Emergency Personnel Contacts
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
Below is a list of all emergency personnel, local officials, and law enforcement to be contacted during a crisis. A serial rapist could result in a statewide crisis, so it is best that a variety of officials be informed. Listed below is each official’s name, title, cell phone, home phone, work phone and email.
Brian Bittner Penn State Emergency Management Director Cell: (814) 555-6785 Home: (814) 555-9002 Work: (814) 867-3430 Email: [email protected]
John Gardner Chief of Police, State College Police Department Cell: (814) 777-0023 Home: (814) 980-0078 Work: (814) 234-7150 Email: [email protected]
Steve Bair Chief, Alpha Fire Company Cell: (814) 555-6980 Home: (814) 235-6721 Work: (800) 479-0050 Email: [email protected]
Colonel Tyree C. Blocker Commissioner, Pennsylvania State Police Cell: (610) 555-7354 Home: (610) 879-9912 Work: (717) 783-5599 Email: [email protected]
Mount Nittany Medical Center Phone Number: (814) 231–7000 Address: 1800 East Park Avenue State College, PA 16803-6797
Centre LifeLink EMS, Inc. State College Paramedics Phone Number: (814) 237-8163 Address: 125 Puddintown Rd State College, PA 16801
State College Health Department Phone Number: (814) 234-7191 Address: 243 S Allen St State College, PA 16801
Bureau of Emergency Medical Services Pennsylvania Department of Health Phone Number: (717) 787-8740 Fax: (717) 772-0910 Address: 625 Forster Street, Room 606 Harrisburg, PA 17120
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Email: [email protected]
Crisis Control Room
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Location of Crisis Control Room
While we work to resolve the serial rape crisis at hand, all of the critical and noncritical crisis team members are to convene at Old Main, University Park.
Old Main Pollock Road University Park, PA 16801 Phone: (814) 865-4700
Alternate Locations:
If Old Main is unavailable, the following list contains alternate locations where the crisis team and necessary employees should reconvene to organize the next steps to be taken in identifying the suspect at large and disseminating information to students and publics on campus quickly and accurately. If Old Main is unattainable, the crisis team will convene at the University Police Department or State College Police Department; we have permission to use the respective police headquarters as we are working in conjunction with police officials to solve this crime and bring the perpetrator to justice. Penn State and police officials believe both Old Main and the alternative police headquarters would be locations that are easily accessible to media so that the crisis team can conveniently hold press conferences and keep the publics up to date. Addresses and contact information for both alternative departments are listed below.
Pennsylvania University Campus Police Eisenhower Parking Deck University Park, PA 16801 Phone: (814) 863-1111
State College Police Department 243 S Allen St State College, PA 16801 Phone: (814) 234-7150
Equipment & Supplies for Crisis Control Room
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
In the event of a crisis, the crisis communication team will be headquartered at Old Main; all equipment and supplies is contained in a storage area in Old Main and is ready to be transported should an alternative location be required to meet. Both University Police and State College Police have been prepped with a checklist of necessary gathered materials to ensure upon arrival that all materials have been transported. In addition to a list of necessary materials, our crisis team has also been prepped with a list of extra materials specific to the crisis communications personnel. The lists are provided below:
Necessary Gathered Materials at Site:
Podium Telephone Cameras & Film Stage Fax Machine Surge Protectors Microphone Copy Machine Extension Cords Speakers & Amp Wireless Routers Dry-Erase Boards Tables Printer Walkie-Talkies Chairs First Aid Kit
Additional Materials Necessary for Crisis Communication Personnel:
● Employee Identification Card ● HARD COPIES of all Crisis Communication Documents ○ Fact Sheets, Bios & all other critical documents should be organized and easily accessible for quick retrieval ● Company letterhead ● Personal Laptop ● Food & Water ● Change of Clothes ● Pen, Pencils, Stationery
Pre-Gathered Information
Fact Sheets Press Kits containing all information applicable to incident at hand & overarching crisis (press releases, press briefings) Bios for Appropriate Personnel Penn State University Annual Reports Brochures detailing PSUAlert system & Social Media Crisis Plan
Layouts of Alternative Crisis Control Centers Media/Press Policies for Alternative Locations
Information for University Health Center, Women’s Resource Centers and sexual assault hotlines Crime Statistics for Campus & State College Borough Information on steps the university is taking to support victims and identify perpetrator Documents highlighting campus Night Maps and Blue Phone Procedures
Collateral Materials
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Brochure on Sexual Assault and Rape: Tips on Prevention, Reporting and Resources
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Infographic
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Fact Sheets
University Park at The Pennsylvania State University Fact Sheet
Located in State College, Pa., the Pennsylvania State University is a public research university that was founded in 1855. The university is comprised of 24 campuses throughout Pennsylvania with approximately 100,000 students. Pennsylvania State’s largest campus, University Park, is 8,566 acres located in the small city of State College. The University Park campus has a total enrollment of 46,606 students.
Living Arrangements ● Approximately 13,700 students live on campus ● First-year undergraduate students are required to live on campus and are guaranteed housing ● After their first year, students must enter a lottery system to live on campus ● On-campus housing offers traditional residence halls, renovated residence halls, suites and apartments ● There are eight different housing areas on campus ○ East Housing Area ○ Eastview Terrace ○ Nittany Apartments & Suites ○ North Housing Area ○ Pollock Housing Area ○ South Housing Area ○ West Housing Area ○ White Course Undergraduate Apartments
On-Campus Residence and Apartment Halls ● There are a total of 71 residence and apartment halls on campus ○ East Housing Area: 15 ■ Three residence halls located in the East Housing Area (Mckean Hall, Pennypacker Hall and Stuart Hall) are closed for the 2017-18 academic year for renovations ○ Eastview Terrace: 7 ○ Nittany Apartments & Suites: 1 ■ Nittany Apartments & Suites has two- and four-bedroom townhouse apartments ○ North Housing Area: 5 ○ Pollock Housing Area: 9 ○ South Housing Area: 12 ○ West Housing Area: 6 ○ White Course Undergraduate Apartments: 16
(over)
Pennsylvania State University, University Park Fact Sheet Cont.
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Campus Safety On-Campus Housing Security ● University housing, with the exception of apartments, are equipped with an electronic, computerized card access security system ● University housing is locked 24 hours a day while students are in residence ● Students must use their id+ Card to gain access to their assigned building ○ Students are only able to access their assigned building unless they are approved for additional access to other residence halls by the Access Management Office ● Closed-circuit television systems are installed in common-area locations, entrances and exits throughout residence halls
University Police ● The University Police and Public Safety Department is located at 20 Eisenhower Parking Deck, University Park, PA 16802 ● The department is on duty 24 hours a day 365 days a year ○ The department has 47 police officers, 6 dispatchers, 9 assistant police service officers, 114 student auxiliary officers, 2 police academy cadets, and 2 police directors ● The Student Auxiliary Officer Unit employs full-time students to patrol the exterior areas of residence halls ○ Auxiliary officers are typically on duty from 5 p.m. to 7 a.m.
Campus Safety ● More than 200 emergency phones are located throughout campus and can be identified by their blue lights ● University students, faculty and staff who feel unsafe walking on campus at night can call 814- 865-WALK (9255) and request a Safe Walk escort ● A campus night map has been devised to show safe, well-lit walking routes and is available online or at the University police station
Emergency Preparedness ● The campus conducts at least one emergency exercise annually ○ Emergency exercises include, but are not limited to: drills, seminars, table-tops, functional and full scale exercises ● PSUAlert, the emergency notification system for students, faculty and staff, sends out emails, text notifications and phone calls to all students, faculty, and staff who opt into the program ○ When situations arise that present an ongoing threat or when events affect a campus’s ability to operate normally, notifications are sent ○ Students, faculty, and staff may also enter their contact information on PSUAlert’s website, https://psualert.psu.edu/psualert, to get notifications on their phones
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Rape and Sexual Assault Fact Sheet
Definition of rape ● A crime of aggression, power, and control in which one person forces, coerces, or manipulates another person to have sexual intercourse without their consent. ● Rape includes vaginal, oral, or anal penetration by any object (including fingers) and also includes forced oral sex.
Rape Statistics ● 1 in 6 women and 1 in 33 men will experience attempted or completed rape in their lifetime ● On average, there are 321,500 victims (age 12 or older) of rape and sexual assault each year in the United States ● People between the ages of 12-34 are at the highest risk for rape and sexual assault ● 11.2 percent of all undergraduate and graduate students experience rape or sexual assault through physical force, violence, or incapacitation ● In 29 percent of reported rapes, the rapist used a weapon ● 23.1 percent of female undergraduates and 5.4 percent of male undergraduates experience rape or sexual assault through physical force, violence, or incapacitation ● Approximately 36 percent of rapes are reported to authorities ● Only 20 percent of female students report rape to authorities
Impacts of Rape ● 94 percent of women who are raped experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) during the two weeks following the rape, and 30 percent experience symptoms 9 months after the rape ● 13 percent of women who are raped attempt suicide
Consequences of Rape ● In the state of Pennsylvania, rape is punishable as a first degree felony, with a maximum of 20 years’ imprisonment ● For rape of a child less than 13 years of age, maximum 40 years imprisonment ● For rape of a child with serious bodily injury, the maximum sentence is life imprisonment
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Photos
Image source: The Daily Collegian (edited by Halle Proper) Crime scene at Penn State University Park (sample picture)
Image source: PSU University Police continuously patrol the campus.
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Image source: PSU Penn State police station at University Park
Image source: PSU Penn State has emergency and courtesy phones available throughout the campus. Learn more about the Penn State Emergency Telephone System.
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Internet Sources
In the event of a serial rapist crisis, use these websites for reference:
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) ● https://www.fbi.gov ● FBI handles serious violent crimes and has a victim assistance program that would be beneficial in this type of crisis.
Pennsylvania State Police ● http://www.psp.pa.gov/Pages/default.aspx ● The state police is in involved in major crimes in the commonwealth and strive to serve in quick, efficient way. There are also useful links and databases that would serve well during this crisis.
Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN) ● https://www.rainn.org ● RAINN is the nation's largest anti-sexual assault organization and also has a hotline that victims can call. They also work to prevent sexual assault and help those who are victims.
NotAlone.gov ● https://www.justice.gov/ovw/protecting-students-sexual-assault ● NotAlone.gov is a White House project that provides useful information for students, schools, and on how to discover resources on campus.
Penn State Gender Equity Center (GenEQ) ● http://sites.psu.edu/genderequity/ ● GenEQ helps students who have been affected by sexual violence, harassment, stalking, and many other offenses. The staff provides assistance through advocacy, referrals, education, and crisis intervention/support. There is also a hotline that can be called.
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Dark Site
The Dark Site is a dormant website that will only be activated in the event of a serial rapist crisis. The website contains a template for information that should be made available to internal and external stakeholders during a crisis. An outline of the dark site is below. It can also be accessed by administrators (even when dormant) at the following link:
https://sites.psu.edu/mockcrisis
Current administrators include the following individuals: ● Laura Ritchey (lmr5602) ● Steve Manuel (sgm103) ● Tayah Price (tmp5388) ● Meg Riley (mfr5094) ● Halle Proper (hsp5046) ● Sarah Pettoruto (sfp5114)
If an individual needs access to the dark site, or if the above administrators’ access is denied, contact Laura Ritchey by email at [email protected] or by phone at (814) 414-2413.
Dark Site Outline ● Home: Letter to stakeholders/publics and note to internal stakeholders
● Situation: Basic description of the crisis situation ○ Rapist Profile ○ Incidents to Date ○ Questions and Answers
● Updates: Stated goal to be transparent and allow stakeholders to make informed decisions ○ News Reports ○ Press Releases ○ Current Statements ○ Corrections and Clarifications ○ Media Center ○ Register for Updates
● Contact Information/Crime Reporting: Contact information for police, medical, emotional support, legal support, media and news
● Victim Resources: What to do if a rape occurs; link to contact information to get help
● Safety Tips: Infographic of rape prevention and safety tips ○ Penn State Safety Resources
● We Are: Penn State history, overview, purpose and values
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References
Campus Safety. (2017). Retrieved November 09, 2017, from
https://police.psu.edu/campus-safety
Campus Sexual Violence Statistics. (n.d.). Retrieved November 17, 2017, from
https://www.rainn.org/statistics/campus-sexual-violence
Penn State Housing. (n.d.). Retrieved November 17, 2017, from https://housing.psu.edu/
Penn State University Park Campus Facts. (n.d.). Retrieved November 09, 2017, from
http://admissions.psu.edu/pennstate/campuses/?campusCode=UP
Policies, Safety, & U: 2017 Annual Security Report and Annual Fire Safety Report. (2017).
Retrieved November 17, 2017, from
https://police.psu.edu/sites/police/files/144206.j_policiessafetyu_up.pdf
President Eric J. Barron. (2017). Retrieved November 15, 2017, from
https://president.psu.edu/biography.html
Reporting of Sexual Violence Incidents. (n.d.). Retrieved November 17, 2017, from
https://www.nij.gov/topics/crime/rape-sexual-violence/Pages/rape-notification.aspx
Sex Crimes: Definitions and Penalties Pennsylvania. (n.d.). Retrieved November 17, 2017, from
https://apps.rainn.org/policy/policy-crime-definitions.cfm?state=Pennsylvania&group=3
This is Penn State. (n.d.). Retrieved November 09, 2017, from
http://www.psu.edu/this-is-penn-state
Trust, Amanda. (2011, July 1) How Serial Rapists Target Their Victims. Retrieved from:
http://www.cosmopolitan.com/lifestyle/advice/a3528/how-serial-rapists-target-victims/
UNC Charlotte Police Department. (2017) Reduce the Risk of Becoming a Rape Victim.
Retrieved from: https://police.uncc.edu/crime-prevention-safety/sexual-assault-
prevention/reduce-risk-becoming-rape-victim
University Police and Public Safety. (2017) Report A Crime: Report A Crime Online to Penn
State University Police. Retrieved from: https://police.psu.edu/report-crime
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CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS PLAN: SERIAL RAPIST PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
U.S. Department of Homeland Security. (2017) Reporting Suspicious Activity. Retrieved from:
https://www.dhs.gov/how-do-i/report-suspicious-activity
Victims of Sexual Violence: Statistics (n.d.). Retrieved November 17, 2017, from
https://www.rainn.org/statistics/victims-sexual-violence
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