Loyola University Chicago

Campus Safety

Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence/Abuse

Domestic violence is a broad term used to describe aggressive behavior and violence from or towards family or household members.  The more appropriate and legal term is “domestic abuse.”  
 
Examples of people included in the term “family” and “household member” include;

  • spouses and former spouses
  • parents, children and stepchildren
  • persons who currently or formerly shared the same home
  • persons who dated or were engaged, regardless of gender
  • persons who allegedly have a child in common
  • persons with disabilities and their personal assistants

The aggressive behavior or abuse can include, but not be limited to;

  • physical abuse (pushing, hitting, forced sex, not allowing you to leave)
  • harassment (creating a disturbance at school or work, repeatedly telephoning, following or watching you, threatening to hurt you)
  • making a child or other person watch abuse
  • forcing you to do something you don’t want to do
  • denying a disabled person access to needed care

At Loyola, the most common types of Domestic Abuse are those between individuals dating or that between roommates.  
 
You should always take any kind of threat or harassment seriously.  Even if you have known the person for a long period of time, or if it is the first time they have shown signs of abuse, there is always a possibility that a person can suddenly change and cause harm.  

What to do if you are a victim of Domestic Abuse

Your primary concern should be for that of your own safety and well being.  If you are still in immediate danger, you should call Campus Safety (773.508.SAFE)for on campus emergencies or 911 for off campus emergencies.  If possible, flee from your attacker.  After contacting the police, you should seek support from any number of various resources at Loyola or in the city of Chicago.

Campus Safety’s Response

If you are the victim of domestic abuse and you contact Campus Safety an officer will be dispatched to your location.  Many of our officers have received specialized training for domestic abuse and can properly assist you when they arrive.  Their first concern is for your well being and they will ask if you require medical attention.  If you require medical attention, they will contact emergency medical services and have them respond to the location or they will drive you to the nearest emergency room.
  
If you do not require medical attention, Campus Safety will begin asking you pertinent information about the incident(s).  They will ask you if you want to sign complaints, which means press charges, against the attacker.  If you agree, they will contact the Chicago Police Department to come and take a report.  

Resources

There are many resources out there to help you, some of which are a part of Loyola and some of which are state or privately funded organizations.  
Here at Loyola, you can speak with counselors at the Wellness Center - Archive or contact Ministry for support.  
Outside of Loyola University Chicago
 

National Center for Victims of Crime
800.211.7996
Monday-Friday, 7:30am-7:30pm
www.ncvc.org
 
Domestic Violence Help Line 877.863.6338
 
Between Friends 800.603.HELP
 
Center on Halsted 773.871.CARE