A. In accordance with local, state and federal laws and with University Regulations promulgated in accordance with the Tennessee Board of Regents policy, students are prohibited from unlawfully possessing, using, selling, manufacturing or distributing illicit drugs on University owned or controlled property. Also, students are prohibited from possessing, using, selling, manufacturing or distributing alcoholic beverages on University owned or controlled property.
- At off-campus University sponsored (funded) events, students are prohibited from unlawfully possessing, using, selling, manufacturing or distributing illicit drugs. Alcohol shall not be abused by those of legal drinking age, nor used, possessed or distributed by those who have not attained drinking age.
- Additionally, students are prohibited from being under the influence of illegal drugs or alcohol while on University owned or controlled property or while attending any University sponsored (funded) activity.
B. Under the laws of the state of Tennessee, a person convicted of the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of an illicit drug or alcohol may face a fine ranging from fifty dollars ($50) to $500,000 and may face imprisonment ranging from thirty (30) days to sixty (60) years. Dependent on the offense and its classification, the fine and imprisonment may vary but will be within the limits noted. Descriptions of the offenses and sanctions listed are located in the Tennessee Code Annotated (T.C.A.) in section 39-17-401 through 427 and in sections 40-35-101 through 504.
Under the laws of the United States, a person convicted of the manufacture, distribution or possession of any controlled sub-stance may face a fine of up to $100,000 and may face imprisonment of up to one (1) year for Schedule V drugs, and a fine of up to $1,000,000 and life imprisonment for Schedule I drugs. Dependent on the offense and its classification (according to the schedule of the drug), the sanction may vary but will be within the limits listed above. These sanctions are doubled when the offense involves either (i) distribution or possession at or near a school or college campus (emphasis supplied) or (ii) distribution to persons under 21 years of age. Additional sanctions include civil fines of up to $1,000,000 for simple possession and loss of eligibility for federal benefits. Descriptions of offenses and sanctions are located in the United States Code (U.S.C.), title 21, sections 801 et seq.
C. The use of illicit drugs or alcohol may result in a variety of health problems. Excessive use of alcohol, for instance has been shown to result in damage to the heart and liver; impairment of brain activity, digestion and blood circulation; impairment of judgment, memory and motor skills; and ultimately may lead to death.
- The use of illicit drugs has been shown to cause organic damage, impairment of physiological processes, and impairment to mental functioning. Risks of contracting hepatitis, AIDS and other infection increases when illicit drugs are injected. The use of illicit drugs may also lead to death.
D. The University of Memphis students have access to a wide variety of drug or alcohol related counseling/assistance programs, both on and off campus. On campus services free to students, include the Center for Counseling, Learning and Testing and the University's Health Center , and for a small fee, students are seen at the Department of Psychology's Psychological Service Center. For more information on campus based services, contact the Center for Student Development at 678-2067.
- Off campus programs to assist the substance abuser range from groups dealing with addictive behaviors - such as Alcoholics Anonymous - to full service, in-patient programs operated by local hospitals or health-related concerns. These programs may be contacted either directly or through referral by The Center for Student Development; although, none are operated with the assistance of the University.
E. Violation of University Policy as stated in Section A above will result in disciplinary action being taken against the responsible student. A violation may result in a sanction ranging from a simple warning and referral for treatment to a full suspension or expulsion from the University and may also result in referral for prosecution by local, state or federal authorities. For a more detailed view of the disciplinary process, see "Code of Student Conduct" at http://saweb.memphis.edu/judicialaffairs/ or contact the Office of Student Judicial and Ethical Programs at 678-2298. |
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