USM: Acts of Violence

This procedure guide applies to all faculty and staff of the university and specifically applies to acts of violence, intimidation, and inappropriate aggression of various types.

The following format is designed to deal with high risk situations:

Procedures to be employed:
  1. At the first sign of violence, call USM Police at 911 from a land line or (207) 780-5211 from a cell phone. Note: If immediate calling is not possible, someone should try to do so discreetly out of sight of the offender(s).
  2. Establish an atmosphere of cooperation.
  3. Do not display anger, fear, or anxiety; remain calm.
  4. Talk in a calm voice, lower and slower than the offender. Allow the person to voice their grievance.
  5. Be willing to listen. A person in "crisis" needs this element of cooperation.
  6. Visually observe the following as you communicate with the offender(s):
  • Description of the person.
  • Description of any weapons.
  • Gather facts (details) on the offender(s) demands.
7.    Post police reporting:
  • Report the act of violence.
  • Your name.
  • Your exact campus location.
  • Specify the exact time.
  • Specify offender(s) appearance.
  • Provide exact details how the offender(s) left the building or their current whereabouts if still in the area.
Examples :    Two persons proceeded out the front doors of our building; one male, one female are currently in the main office area.

For further information or problems with this page, contact: Craig Hutchinson