While there are times when sending a notice to the community about crimes on campus may be necessary, Timely Warnings may only be issued for Clery crimes, including:
- Murder
- Rape
- Robbery
- Burglary
- Motor Vehicle Theft
- Arson
For a complete list of Clery crimes, please refer to the Annual Security Report.
As such, it may contain information of a graphic nature that could trigger emotional responses, in particular for victims/survivors of sexual assault/sexual violence. If you are a student and need emotional support, please contact Counseling & Psychological Services by calling (707) 664-2153 (including after business hours) or visiting their new building #17A located south of the Salazar Hall building. Advocacy services can be reached by all Sonoma State community members by calling the Confidential Sexual Assault Advocate, Susan Pulido, at (707) 696-9301.
Timely Warnings
September 8, 2022
TO: Campus Community
FR: Nader Oweis, Chief of Police
RE: TIMELY WARNING CRIME BULLETIN UPDATE: Aggravated Assault (245 PC, 273a PC – case 22-166)
This Timely Warning Bulletin is being issued in compliance with the Jeanne Clery Act and the purpose is to provide preventative information to the campus community to aid members from becoming the victim of a similar crime.
The following information is provided to update the community as to the status of the September 3rd stabbing investigation.
UPDATED SUSPECT DESCRIPTION: A composite sketch of the likeness of the suspect was completed. This sketch is based on the memory of a witness (See attached sketch). We received additional information that the suspect may have a laceration or wound near his left eye.
Witnesses described the suspect as a Hispanic male adult, in his late 20s to early 30s, 5’6” to 5’7” tall, with a “buzzed cut” or bald hair, a thin mustache, and tattoos on his arm. The suspect may have been wearing a white T-shirt and jeans.
UPDATED SUSPECT VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: The suspect fled the area in an older model, possibly 2010 or 2011, dark gray Toyota Camry heading west on E. Cotati Avenue from Cypress Drive. It is believed that there was either a white colored rosary or white shell necklace hanging from the rearview mirror.
If you know something: Anyone with information that might assist with the investigation is urged to call the Sonoma State University Police Department at (707) 664-4444.
The Sonoma State University Police Department would like to remind the campus community to:
- Immediately and promptly report any suspected crime, suspicious persons, or activities by calling 911 or the non-emergency line at 707-664-4444 or by utilizing one of the many Blue Light Phones on campus.
- If you believe that you or someone else is in an unsafe situation, please do not delay calling 911 or seeking assistance from others.
- Be alert to your surroundings. Your actions as an active bystander can help prevent crimes from occurring within our campus community.
- Call the Sonoma State University Police Department for an on-campus safety escort or walk with another person or group of people.
Support Resources: We understand that individuals may find this message upsetting, and encourage those impacted by this incident to utilize campus support resources:
- The campus Confidential Victim Advocate at (707) 664-2698.
- Counseling and Psychological Services are available for any student seeking support at (707) 664-2153.
- Our Employee Assistance Program, LifeMatters by Empathia, is available as a support resource for staff and faculty at (800) 367-7474.
Crimes reportable under the Clery Act are defined on the Clery Compliance website.
September 4, 2022
TO: Campus Community
FR: Nader Oweis, Chief of Police
RE: TIMELY WARNING CRIME BULLETIN: Aggravated Assault (245 PC, case 22-166)
This Timely Warning Bulletin is being issued in compliance with the Jeanne Clery Act and the purpose is to provide preventative information to the campus community to aid members from becoming the victim of a similar crime.
REPORTED CRIME: On Saturday. September 3, 2022, at approximately 11:50 p.m., Officers from the Sonoma State University Police Department and City of Cotati Police Department responded to a 911 report of a stabbing in the R12 parking lot near Tuscany Village. Upon arrival, Officers located a juvenile victim with a non-life threatening laceration to the arm. The victim was transported to a local hospital by ambulance and was later released.
This is an ongoing investigation, but it appears that this incident stemmed from a possible case of road rage that occurred on Old Adobe Road. The suspect followed the victim’s vehicle, which came onto campus from E. Cotati Avenue at Cypress Way, where they drove into the R12 parking lot. The suspect exited his vehicle, approached the victim, challenged the victim to fight, and subsequently stabbed at the victim with a knife.
Witnesses described the suspect as a Hispanic male adult, in his late 20s to early 30s, 5’6” to 5’7” tall, with a “buzzed cut” or bald hair, a thin mustache, and tattoos on his arm. The suspect may have been wearing a white T-shirt and jeans. The suspect fled the area in an older model dark gray Toyota Camry heading west on E. Cotati Avenue.
At this time, the suspect has not been identified or apprehended and is not believed to be on campus.
A SSUAlert was sent to the campus community via text message, email, and voice recording to warn the community, shortly after the incident was confirmed.
If you know something: Anyone with information that might assist with the investigation is urged to call the Sonoma State University Police Department at (707) 664-4444.
The Sonoma State University Police Department would like to remind the campus community to:
- Immediately and promptly report any suspected crime, suspicious persons, or activities by calling 911 or the non-emergency line at 707-664-4444 or by utilizing one of the many Blue Light Phones on campus.
- If you believe that you or someone else is in an unsafe situation, please do not delay calling 911 or seeking assistance from others.
- Be alert to your surroundings. Your actions as an active bystander can help prevent crimes from occurring within our campus community.
- Call the Sonoma State University Police Department for an on-campus safety escort or walk with another person or group of people.
Support Resources: We understand that individuals may find this message upsetting, and encourage those impacted by this incident to utilize campus support resources:
- The campus Confidential Victim Advocate at (707) 664-2698.
- Counseling and Psychological Services are available for any student seeking support at (707) 664-2153.
- Our Employee Assistance Program, LifeMatters by Empathia, is available as a support resource for staff and faculty at (800) 367-7474.
Crimes reportable under the Clery Act are defined on the Clery Compliance website.
April 30, 2022
TO: Campus community
FR: Nader Oweis, Chief of Police
Tyson Hill, Clery Compliance Office Director
RE: TIMELY WARNING CRIME BULLETIN: Sexual Assault (Case 22-76)
This Timely Warning Bulletin is being issued in compliance with the Jeanne Clery Act and the purpose is to provide preventative information to the campus community to aid members from becoming the victim of a similar crime.
REPORTED CRIME:
The Sonoma State Police Department and the Office for the Prevention of Harassment and Discrimination (OPHD) have received complaints against an individual for alleged sexual assault, including rape and fondling, occurring in private residences on campus.
The individual has been removed from campus in accordance with policy. Information identifying the individual is being withheld unless legal processes allow for the release of this information.
If you know something: Anyone with information that might assist with the ongoing investigation is urged to call Sonoma State Police Department at (707) 664-4444 and/or OPHD at (707) 664-4140.
Support Resources: Anyone impacted by interpersonal and/or sexual violence is encouraged to utilize campus resources:
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The campus Confidential Victim Advocate at (707) 664-2698.
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Counseling and Psychological Services are available for any student seeking support at (707) 664-2153.
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Our Employee Assistance Program, LifeMatters by Empathia, is available as a support resource for staff and faculty at (800) 367-7474.
Additional resources may also be available through the following local organizations:
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Verity (Sonoma County's Rape Crisis Center) is available as a support resource for students, staff and faculty.
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For immediate crisis: (707) 545-7273 (operational 24/7)
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Other inquiries: (707) 545-7270
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YWCA Sonoma County is available as a support resource for students, staff and faculty.
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Domestic Violence Crisis Hotline: (707) 546-1234
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Other inquiries: (707) 546-9922
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The Sonoma State University Police Department reminds the campus community of the following:
-
Immediately and promptly report any suspected crime, suspicious persons or activities on campus to the Sonoma State Police Department by calling 911 or the non-emergency line at 707-664-4444 or by utilizing one of the many Blue Light Phones on campus.
-
Call Sonoma State Police Department for an on-campus safety escort.
-
If you believe that you or someone else is in an unsafe situation, please do not delay calling 911.
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Be aware of your surroundings. Your actions may help prevent others from becoming victims.
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If something or someone makes you uneasy, tell someone, tell them to leave, avoid the person and/or leave the area.
None of the above reminders is in any way intended to imply that fault or responsibility for interpersonal or sexual violence lies with the survivor.
Affirmative consent is required for any type of sexual activity. The definition of affirmative consent means an informed, affirmative, conscious decision by each participant to engage in mutually agreed upon sexual activity. Affirmative consent must be voluntary and given without coercion, force, threats or intimidation. Affirmative consent can be withdrawn or revoked at any time.
April 24, 2022
TO: Campus community
FR: Nader Oweis, Chief of Police and Tyson Hill, Clery Compliance Office Director
RE: TIMELY WARNING CRIME BULLETIN: Attempted motorcycle theft from Tuscany Village
This Timely Warning Bulletin is being issued in compliance with the Jeanne Clery Act and the purpose is to provide preventative information to the campus community to aid members from becoming the victim of a similar crime.
REPORTED CRIME: The Sonoma State University Police Department is investigating the attempted theft of a motorcycle from the patio of a residence in Tuscany Village that occurred at approximately 2:25 a.m. today. A resident interrupted the suspect from stealing the motorcycle. Before leaving the area towards East Cotati Avenue and Petaluma Hill Road, the suspect threatened the resident.
The suspect is described as a white male, between 30-40 years of age, wearing a gray colored sweatshirt, a small two-strap backpack, a baseball cap or beanie, and a neck gaiter pulled up to his face.
If you know something: Anyone with information that might assist with this investigation is urged to call Sonoma State University Police at (707) 664-4444.
Sonoma State University Police would like to remind the campus community to:
-
Immediately and promptly report any suspected crime, suspicious persons, or activities on campus to University Police by calling 911 or the non-emergency line at 707-664-4444, or by utilizing one of the many Blue Light Phones on campus.
-
If you believe that you or someone else is in an unsafe situation, please do not delay calling 911 or seeking assistance from others.
-
Be alert to your surroundings. Your actions as an active bystander can help prevent crimes from occurring within our campus community.
-
Call Sonoma State University Police for an on-campus safety escort or walk with another person or group of people.
Crimes reportable under the Clery Act are defined on the Clery Compliance website.
Crime Bulletins
January 27, 2023
TO: Sonoma State Campus Community
FR: Nader Oweis, Chief of Police
RE: Crime Alert Bulletin: Scammers targeting Sonoma State Students
Exchange Bank has alerted the Sonoma State Police Department that at least two Sonoma State students have been victims of a scam. The scammers are reaching out to students, possibly through email or phone, and impersonating themselves as members of the "Sonoma State Employment" department, which does not exist.
The scammers attempt to "employ" the students to test Bitcoin machines in the area. The scam is carried out in the following manner:
- Fraudulent checks are sent to the students to be deposited in their personal accounts.
- After the checks are deposited, they are instructed to withdraw the funds and take the cash to specific Bitcoin machines.
- Students are then required to send a receipt of the transaction to the scammers, which provides the scammers access to the accounts.
If you are a victim of these scammers with financial loss, you are encouraged to file a report by calling the Sonoma State Police Department Non-Emergency line at (707) 664-4444.
November 1, 2022
TO: Campus Community
FR: Nader Oweis, Chief of Police
RE: Crime Bulletin: Felony vandalism to a vehicle on Parking Lot F
Dear Campus Community,
REPORTED CRIME: Community assistance is needed with identifying the suspect(s) in a series of vandalisms to a vehicle occurring in Parking Lot F.
The Sonoma State University Police Department has received several reports of a vehicle being vandalized in Parking Lot F since October 7, 2022, causing extensive damage to the vehicle.
The instances of vandalism have included keying, and placing substances on the vehicle.
If you know something: Anyone with information that might assist the Sonoma State University Police Department with the investigation is urged to call 707-664-4444.
The Sonoma State Police Department reminds the community of the following safety tips:
- Immediately and promptly report any suspected crime, suspicious persons, or activities on campus to University Police by calling 911 or the non-emergency line at 707-664-4444 or by utilizing one of the many Blue Light Phones on campus.
- Call the Sonoma State Police Department for an on-campus safety escort.
- If you believe that you or someone else is in an unsafe situation, please do not delay calling 911 or seeking assistance from others.
- Be alert to your surroundings. Your actions as an active bystander can help prevent crimes from occurring within our campus community.
You are not at fault for any harm done to you. The above safety tips are not intended to imply otherwise.
Support Resources: Counseling and Psychological Services are available for any student seeking support at 707-664-2153. A Confidential Advocate is also available at 707-664-2698. Our Employee Assistance Program, LifeMatters by Empathia, is available as a support resource for staff and faculty at 1-800-367-7474.
Physical descriptions of a suspect or subject, including race or gender, are included only when they provide several details that might help distinguish the suspect’s or subject’s appearance from the general population.
September 14, 2022
TO: Campus Community
FR: Nader Oweis, Chief of Police
RE: Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety Shooting Investigation
The Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety announced this morning that on Tuesday, September 13, at approximately 11:00 pm, their officers responded to a disturbance call on the Copeland Creek Trail, in the area of the Santa Alicia footbridge, which is approximately two miles from campus. Officers located one victim with an injury consistent with being shot. The victim was taken to a local hospital for treatment.
Due to the active investigation, members of the public have been asked to avoid the area of the Copeland Creek Trail between Seed Farm Drive and Commerce Boulevard.
We are not aware of any Sonoma State students, faculty or staff being involved in this incident. Nonetheless, we recognize that members of our community may still be impacted.
Students needing to access resources are advised to contact Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) for assistance by calling (707) 664-2153.
Faculty and staff needing assistance may contact our Employee Assistance Program, LifeMatters by Empathia by calling (800) 367-7474.
Members of the Sonoma State Police Department are assisting in this investigation.
Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety asks that anyone with information regarding this incident are encouraged to call their dispatch center at (707) 584-2600 and refer to case #22-3609.
July 1, 2022
TO: Campus Community
FR: Nader Oweis, Chief of Police
RE: Crime Bulletin: Scam Calls from someone impersonating a Sonoma County Sheriff's Employee
Dear Campus Community,
SCAM ADVISORY - We have received emails from staff and faculty reporting a scam telephone call from someone impersonating a Sonoma County Sheriff’s Department Employee. The caller requests a phone call back in regards to a “civil matter” that must be handled immediately. Additionally, the caller “spoofed” the legitimate Sonoma County Sheriff’s Department phone number to gain the employees trust.
The Sonoma County Sheriff’s Department is aware of these calls. They do not call community members seeking payment for outstanding traffic citations, fees, warrants or civil matters.
Scammers can disguise their phone numbers to appear to be from local law enforcement on your caller ID. If you receive a suspicious phone call from someone claiming to be in law enforcement, please contact your local law enforcement agency to confirm the information you are given. Never provide your bank account, credit card or personal information to anyone on the phone when you receive these types of calls.
If you have received a call and are a victim of these scammers with financial loss, you are encouraged to file a report by calling the Sonoma State Police Department Non-Emergency line at (707) 664-4444.
July 2, 2022
TO: Campus Community
FR: Nader Oweis, Chief of Police
RE: Crime Bulletin UPDATE: Indecent Exposure Incident in City of Rohnert Park
Dear Campus Community,
On June 27, 2022, a Crime Bulletin was issued to alert the community and seek assistance in identifying a suspect in an indecent exposure incident, which occurred in the City of Rohnert Park Copeland Creek path that morning.
On July 1, 2022, the Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety arrested a 16-year-old male for indecent exposure and sexual battery, without incident, after serving a search warrant at his residence.
The identification of the teen resulted after Sonoma State and Cotati Police Officers handled an unrelated call for service in the City of Cotati, and contacted a teen matching the description in the Crime Bulletin. This information was shared with the Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety.
This investigation is a great example of the Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety, Sonoma State Police Department, and the Cotati Police Department working swiftly together to keep our communities safe.
If you know something: Anyone with information that might assist the Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety with the investigation is urged to call them at 707-584-2600 or call the Sonoma State Police Department at 707-664-4444.
Support Resources: Counseling and Psychological Services are available for any student seeking support at 707-664-2153. A Confidential Advocate is also available at 707-664-2698. Our Employee Assistance Program, LifeMatters by Empathia, is available as a support resource for staff and faculty at 1-800-367-7474.
June 27, 2022
TO: Campus Community
FR: Nader Oweis, Chief of Police
RE: Crime Bulletin: City of Rohnert Park Indecent Exposure Incident
REPORTED CRIME: Community assistance is needed with identifying the suspect in an indecent exposure incident, which occurred in the City of Rohnert Park.
At 7 a.m. on the morning of Monday, June 27, a female community member reported to the Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety and Sonoma State Police Department that while she was walking on the creek path in the area of Copeland Creek and Snyder Lane, an unknown male suspect on a black mountain bike approached her and made a lewd comment.
The suspect then got off his bicycle, and with his genitals exposed, began chasing the community member. The community member was able to hit the suspect with an object she was carrying, and the suspect fled southbound on Snyder Lane.
The community member described the suspect as Latino, 17 to 19 years old, heavy set, with dark hair and glasses. He was wearing a black colored sweatshirt with a hoodie and orange shorts with a smiley face design.
If you know something: Anyone with information that might assist the Rohnert Park Department with Public Safety with the investigation is urged to call them at 707-584-2600 or call the Sonoma State Police Department at 707-664-4444.
The Sonoma State Police Department reminds the community of the following safety tips:
- Immediately and promptly report any suspected crime, suspicious persons, or activities on campus to University Police by calling 911 or the non-emergency line at 707-664-4444 or by utilizing one of the many Blue Light Phones on campus.
- Call the Sonoma State Police Department for an on-campus safety escort.
- If you believe that you or someone else is in an unsafe situation, please do not delay calling 911 or seeking assistance from others.
- Be alert to your surroundings. Your actions as an active bystander can help prevent crimes from occurring within our campus community.
You are not at fault for any harm done to you. The above safety tips are not intended to imply otherwise.
Support Resources: Counseling and Psychological Services are available for any student seeking support at 707-664-2153. A Confidential Advocate is also available at 707-664-2698. Our Employee Assistance Program, LifeMatters by Empathia, is available as a support resource for staff and faculty at 1-800-367-7474.
Physical descriptions of a suspect or subject, including race or gender, are included only when they provide several details that might help distinguish the suspect’s or subject’s appearance from the general population.
May 13, 2022
TO: Campus community
FR: Nader Oweis, Chief of Police
RE: CRIME BULLETIN: Potential Hate Crime (case 22-95)
Warning: Individuals may find this information disturbing.
REPORTED CRIME: The Sonoma State University Police Department is investigating a potential hate crime and vandalism that was reported to us last evening.
University staff located a rope that was hanging in a classroom at Salazar Hall, fashioned as a noose. This is the second incident in two weeks (Case 22-86).
There is no suspect information at this time.
We do not know the motives of the individual(s) involved in this incident. Sonoma State University is committed to maintaining an inclusive and equitable community that values diversity and fosters mutual respect. Any act of bias or discrimination based upon a protected class is prohibited pursuant to the Interim CSU Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Exploitation, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, Stalking, and Retaliation.
If you know something: Anyone with information that might assist with the investigation is urged to call Sonoma State University Police at (707) 664-4444.
Support Resources: Anyone impacted by this incident is encouraged to utilize campus resources:
The Office for the Prevention of Harassment and Discrimination at (707) 664-4140.
The campus Confidential Victim Advocate at (707) 664-2698.
Counseling and Psychological Services are available for any student seeking support at (707) 664-2153.
Our Employee Assistance Program, LifeMatters by Empathia (password is: sonoma), is available as a support resource for staff and faculty at (800) 367-7474.
May 2, 2022
TO: Campus community
FR: Nader Oweis, Chief of Police
RE: CRIME BULLETIN: Potential Hate Crime and Vandalism (case 22-86)
REPORTED CRIME: The Sonoma State University Police Department is investigating a potential hate crime and vandalism that was reported to us this morning.
University staff located a barbecue grill that had been pushed into the pool. Attached to the barbecue grill was a rope, with the loose end of the rope fashioned into a noose and left hanging on the pool's accessibility lift.
There is no suspect information at this time.
We do not know the motives of the individual(s) involved in this incident. Sonoma State University is committed to maintaining an inclusive and equitable community that values diversity and fosters mutual respect. Any act of bias or discrimination based upon a protected class is prohibited pursuant to the Interim CSU Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Exploitation, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, Stalking, and Retaliation.
If you know something: Anyone with information that might assist with the investigation is urged to call Sonoma State University Police at (707) 664-4444.
Support Resources: Anyone impacted by this incident is encouraged to utilize campus resources:
-
The Office for the Prevention of Harassment and Discrimination at (707) 664-4140.
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The campus Confidential Victim Advocate at (707) 664-2698.
-
Counseling and Psychological Services are available for any student seeking support at (707) 664-2153.
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Our Employee Assistance Program, LifeMatters by Empathia (password is: sonoma), is available as a support resource for staff and faculty at (800) 367-7474.
Community Information
October 27, 2022
TO: Campus Community
FR: Nader Oweis, Chief of Police; Dr. Ryan Jasen Henne, Dean of Students.
RE: Staying Safe During Halloween
Dear Campus Community,
As part of our continued effort to enhance safety, we want to share this information to help you make informed decisions regarding participation in Halloween festivities on our campus and in our surrounding communities.
CONCERNS ASSOCIATED WITH HALLOWEEN
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, there have been increased seizures of new, colorful forms of illicit fentanyl causing accidental fentanyl exposure by those who misidentify it as candy or other consumables. Fentanyl and other drugs resembling Skittles candy and Fruit Loops cereal have reportedly been found in the San Francisco Bay Area. As Halloween approaches, this may pose an increased risk to children and community members who commonly consume candy.
In prior years, community members have been negatively impacted by incidents of violence, overdoses of drugs and alcohol, and accidents involving driving under the influence. Please make sure if you observe these incidents to report them by dialing 9-1-1.
HAVE A PLAN – DON’T DELAY SEEKING HELP
In support of a safe and enjoyable Halloween, we encourage everyone to have a plan to stay safe, look after one another, and to keep in mind the following while enjoying the festive atmosphere in our communities:
- If you, or someone near you is suffering a medical emergency, including from alcohol or drug poisoning, do not delay calling 9-1-1. Timely calls to 9-1-1 save lives. Even if you aren't sure or don't want any trouble, please call.
- Be sure to charge your cell phone and be prepared to call 9-1-1 to report any suspicious behaviors or unsafe situations.
- Refrain from participating in or escalating any potential dangerous situation or circumstances and support your friends’ efforts to do the same.
- Be aware of the Rohnert Park City Ordinance (Chapter 9.48) regarding Alcohol Offenses, Loud and Unruly Gatherings, and Social Host Accountability, and/or Cotati’s City Ordinance (Chapter 9.38) regarding Alcohol Offenses/Loud Parties and their impact (legal and financial) if cited in violation.
- Always obtain clear consent from potential partners before engaging in any sexual activity.
- Do not drink and drive. Call a taxi or other for-hire transportation service.
- If you are celebrating in nearby off-campus communities or hospitality establishments, be respectful of others and those who may choose to enjoy a quiet experience.
- If you live on-campus, ensure that you follow all housing regulations and guidelines. Please cooperate with University Police and the Residential Education and Campus Housing staff, who will be helping to keep you and the community safe.
CULTURAL APPROPRIATION
We would encourage you to be intentional with your Halloween costume. Costumes are fun, but they can quickly become controversial. If you are planning to dress up for Halloween, or will be attending any social gatherings planned for the week, please ask yourself these questions before deciding upon your costume of choice:
- Wearing a "cultural" costume? Does this costume reduce cultural differences down to jokes or stereotypes?
- Wearing a funny costume? Exercise good judgment and be respectful of others who may not share similar humor.
- Wearing a clown costume? Be mindful that this outfit can generate emotional and sometimes dangerous responses.
- Wearing a historical costume? If this costume is meant to be historical, does it further misinformation or historical and cultural inaccuracies?
- Wearing an "action-based" costume? For everyone’s safety, leave weapon themed accessories at home.
Please know that Sonoma State University is a safe place to live and work but it is not crime-free. As you move about the campus and the surrounding cities, please remember if you see something, say something, report suspicious behavior, crime and emergency situations by dialing 9-1-1. Together we share in the responsibility of keeping one another safe.
We wish you all a fun and safe Halloween!
September 16, 2022
To: University Community
From: Nader Oweis, Chief of Police
Re: Mountain Lion Sighting near campus
Late last night, our dispatch center received a report of a mountain lion that may have been struck by a vehicle while it was crossing the road on Petaluma Hill Road near the Laurel Drive entrance. The mountain lion ran off towards Laurel Drive. Officers checked the area, but were unable to find signs of an injured animal or locate the mountain lion.
We have alerted the California Department of Fish and Wildlife of the report.
Although mountain lion sightings are rare, they do occur in Sonoma County. Please use caution and stay aware of your surroundings, especially late at night or in the early morning hours.
If you see a mountain lion on campus, immediately call 911 or (707) 664-4444.
SAFETY TIPS
If you encounter a lion, remember the goals are to convince it that you are not prey and that you may be dangerous. Follow these safety tips from the National Park Service:
· Do not approach a lion. Most mountain lions will try to avoid a confrontation. Give them a way to escape.
· Do not run from a lion. Running may stimulate a mountain lion's instinct to chase. Instead, stand and face the animal. Make eye contact. If you have small children with you, pick them up if possible so that they don't panic and run. Although it may be awkward, pick them up without bending over or turning away from the mountain lion.
· Do not crouch down or bend over. A human standing up is just not the right shape for a lion's prey. Conversely, a person squatting or bending over resembles a four-legged prey animal. In mountain lion country, avoid squatting, crouching or bending over, even when picking up children.
· Do all you can to appear larger. Raise your arms. Open your jacket if you are wearing one. Again, pick up small children. Throw stones, branches, or whatever you can reach without crouching or turning your back. Wave your arms slowly and speak firmly in a loud voice. The idea is to convince the mountain lion that you are not prey and that you may be a danger to it.
· Fight back if attacked. Individuals have fought back successfully with sticks, caps, jackets, garden tools and their bare hands. Since a mountain lion usually tries to bite the head or neck, try to remain standing and face the attacking animal.
August 18, 2022
TO: Sonoma State Campus Community
FR: Nader Oweis, Chief of Police
RE: Mountain Lion Sighting near Copeland Creek Trail
Campus Community,
This morning at 4:30 a.m. the Rohnert Park Department of Public Safety (RPDPS) Dispatch Center received several calls reporting a mountain lion walking along the Copeland Creek Trail between Country Club Drive and Snyder Lane.
The mountain lion appeared to be walking in a direction toward the campus. Officers from RPDPS and Sonoma State Police Department checked the trail but were unable to locate the mountain lion. Although mountain lion sightings are rare, they do occur at Sonoma State University. Please use caution and stay aware of your surroundings, especially late at night or in the early morning hours.
If you see a mountain lion on campus, immediately call 911 or (707) 664-4444.
SAFETY TIPS
If you encounter a lion, remember the goals are to convince it that you are not prey and that you may be dangerous. Follow these safety tips from the National Park Service:
- Do not approach a lion. Most mountain lions will try to avoid a confrontation. Give them a way to escape.
- Do not run from a lion. Running may stimulate a mountain lion's instinct to chase. Instead, stand and face the animal. Make eye contact. If you have small children with you, pick them up if possible so that they don't panic and run. Although it may be awkward, pick them up without bending over or turning away from the mountain lion.
- Do not crouch down or bend over. A human standing up is just not the right shape for a lion's prey. Conversely, a person squatting or bending over resembles a four-legged prey animal. In mountain lion country, avoid squatting, crouching or bending over, even when picking up children.
- Do all you can to appear larger. Raise your arms. Open your jacket if you are wearing one. Again, pick up small children. Throw stones, branches, or whatever you can reach without crouching or turning your back. Wave your arms slowly and speak firmly in a loud voice. The idea is to convince the mountain lion that you are not prey and that you may be a danger to it.
- Fight back if attacked. Individuals have fought back successfully with sticks, caps, jackets, garden tools and their bare hands. Since a mountain lion usually tries to bite the head or neck, try to remain standing and face the attacking animal.
July 28, 2022
TO: Sonoma State Campus Community
FR: Evan Ferguson, Chief Technology Officer; Nader Oweis, Chief of Police
RE: Resolved -- Campus 911 Emergency Service Disruption
Campus Community,
As communicated last week, Sonoma State University was experiencing a technical service disruption with our 911 emergency service. This issue has been resolved through the efforts of our IT Department and AT&T technicians. 911 calls can now be successfully completed to include proper location information.
Regardless, it is always prudent to provide as much information as possible to dispatchers when reporting an emergency.
Non-emergency calls for service may be made by dialing 707.664.4444.
July 21, 2022
TO: Sonoma State Campus Community
FR: Evan Ferguson, Chief Technology Officer; Nader Oweis, Chief of Police
RE: Campus 911 Emergency Temporary Service Disruption
Campus Community,
As communicated last week, Sonoma State is experiencing a technical service disruption with our campus 911 emergency service. AT&T technicians are continuing to work with members of Information Technology as diligently as possible to resolve this issue.
As a reminder, 911 calls received by our Dispatch Center may not provide a caller’s location. When dialing 911 or using an Emergency Blue Light Phone to report an emergency during this temporary disruption, callers must provide their precise location they are calling from so that the appropriate resources may be dispatched.
Non-emergency calls for service may be made by dialing 707.664.4444.
The campus community will be updated once this temporary disruption is resolved.
July 15, 2022
TO: Sonoma State Campus Community
FR: David Chun, Associate Vice President for Information Technology; Nader Oweis, Chief of Police
RE: Campus 911 Emergency Temporary Service Disruption
Campus Community,
Sonoma State is experiencing a technical service disruption with our campus 911 emergency system. Although 911 calls are received by our Dispatch Center, a caller’s location may not appear properly.
An AT&T technician is on campus and is actively working with members of the Information Technology Department to resolve the issue.
When dialing 911 or using an Emergency Blue Light Phone to report an emergency during this temporary disruption, callers must provide the precise location they are calling from so that the appropriate resources may be dispatched.
Non-emergency calls for service may be made by dialing 707.664.4444.
The campus community will be alerted once this temporary disruption is resolved.