FSU Police Receive Sexual Assault Training As Result of MCASA Grant

The Frostburg State University Police Department (FSUPD) will receive additional sexual assault response training, thanks to a $71,228 grant awarded to the Maryland Coalition Against Sexual Assault (MCASA) to fund its Sexual Assault on College Campus program.

The grant, which was given by the Governor’s Office of Crime Control & Prevention, will provide salary support, operating expenses, and travel expenses for an attorney who will provide “technical assistance, training and policy development to colleges and victim service providers in Maryland to enhance their response to sexual assault on college campuses,” according to a press release.

Alexandra Hoskins, Esquire, has been hired by MCASA to provide the training.

“Our officers currently receive training regarding response to sexual assault, and I hope this action on the part of GOCCP will enhance our efforts,” said FSU Police Chief Cynthia Smith.

Smith emphasized that officers are already required to receive sexual assault response training, and that “FSUPD sponsors and/or attends annual trainings to include: Application and Interview Investigation of Rape and Sexual Assault, Victims’ Rights, and will be attending Title IX-Sexual Assault Reporting and Investigation Procedures presented by Emily Caputo, FSU Title IX Coordinator, scheduled for August 2015.”

The grant comes after the passing of Maryland House Bill 571, which requires Maryland colleges to develop agreements with local rape crisis centers, MCASA, or both.

“FSU already has a great working relationship with our local rape crisis center, the Family Crisis Resource Center (FCRCC),” said Smith. “In fact, the University has provides space for FCRC staff to be on campus each week when school is in session.”

The bill also requires colleges to pursue agreements with local law enforcement entities and college law enforcement entities to set in place a system to preserve evidence of sexual assault so cases can be pursued in court

“FSU is ahead of the curve on this issue as well,” said Smith. “We have long been a partner signatory to the Memorandum of Understanding with the Combined County Investigation Unit, C3I which investigates all serious crime in Allegany County including sexual assaults.”

Alexandra Hoskins, Esquire and FSU Title IX Coordinator Emily Caputo did not reply to requests for comment.