Who is a witness?

A witness is a person believed to have information regarding an incident being investigated. Examples:

  • Someone present when the incident occurred
  • Someone the claimant or respondent communicated with about the incident
  • Someone who may have information relevant to the investigation.

Is participation required?

  • Student participation is voluntary
  • Employees may be compelled to participate

More information

  • In general, CCR will not consider statements of personal opinion, rather than direct observations or reasonable inferences from the facts, or statements as to any party’s general reputation for any character trait, including honesty or chastity.
  • Where CCR identifies multiple witnesses with the same information, CCR may determine that it is not necessary to interview all witnesses identified by the parties if information was sufficiently corroborated by others or if a witness does not have information relevant to the investigation (e.g. character witness).
  • Both the complainant and the respondent may suggest witnesses; however, CCR may identify additional witnesses throughout the course of the investigation. The number of witnesses presented by a party is not determinative of the outcome.
  • The Policy prohibits retaliation against individuals participating in the investigation process, including witnesses. Witnesses should notify CCR of any retaliation concerns as soon as possible. If CCR is not provided information about the retaliation, CCR may not know it is occurring and cannot act to stop the alleged retaliatory behavior.