Hazing Reporting

The University of Maryland is committed to a safe and respectful campus for all. Hazing is a serious violation of University policy and human dignity. If you’ve experienced or witnessed hazing, there are several ways to report it and access support—some of which are confidential and available 24/7.

• Emergencies:
  • UMD Police (Pocomoke Building): (301) 405-3333 or #3333 from a mobile phone
  • Local Police: 911
• Non-Emergencies:
  • UMD Police: (301) 405-3555
• Office of Student Conduct (C. Mitchell Building): 
  • (301) 314-8204 (Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.)
  • Online Reporting: Submit an incident anytime using the online hazing report form. You may report anonymously.

If you're not ready to file a formal report, you can speak privately with these offices:

• Counseling Center (Shoemaker Building): (301) 314-7651
• Mental Health Service (Health Center): (301) 314-8106
• Campus Chaplains: (301) 405-8450 or (301) 314-9866
• Student Legal Aid Offices: (301) 314-7756 (Undergraduate) or (301) 405-5807 (Graduate)

These services are confidential (to the extent permitted by law) and can help you process what happened and explore your options.

Reporting to the University’s Office of Student Conduct or to the University of Maryland Police Department (UMPD) may trigger an official investigation. You can file a report with either—or both.The law enforcement process and the University disciplinary process are separate and can happen at the same time:

• UMPD – for criminal investigations
• Office of Student Conduct – for student disciplinary action

Anyone—student, staff or community member—can report hazing involving a University student, student group, or student organization. Even alumni may be held accountable if the hazing occurred while they were students.

There’s no deadline to report, but doing so promptly helps the University respond effectively.

After a report is filed:

• The Office of Student Conduct may begin an investigation, even if criminal proceedings are also underway. Interim measures may be put in place, including:
  • No-contact orders
  • Temporary changes to University class schedules, housing, or jobs
  • Suspension of group activities during an investigation
• If reported to UMPD, UMPD will normally conduct a criminal investigation. UMPD officials can also assist hazing victims in notifying other law enforcement authorities, as appropriate. 

The Office of Student Conduct oversees the University’s Policy and Procedures on Hazing (V-1.00(K)). If a student, student organization or student group is found responsible for hazing, possible outcomes include:

• For individuals: Suspension or expulsion
• For organizations: Loss of University recognition or registration

Both complainants and respondents have rights during the University’s disciplinary process, including the right to an attorney or other advisor, the right to question evidence and witnesses, and the ability to appeal decisions. More information can be found in the University’s Code of Student Conduct (V-I.00(B)).

Retaliation against any person for reporting or cooperating in an investigation is prohibited. Retaliation includes, but is not limited to, direct or indirect intimidation, threats, and/or harassment involving any party in the investigation.