ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú

Policy

No person shall possess, have under the person’s control, convey or attempt to convey a weapon on University property except as expressly authorized by Ohio law or this policy.  A weapon is defined as any instrument, device, or thing capable of inflicting death and designed or specifically adapted for use as a weapon; or possessed, carried, or used with the intended purpose of causing harm to another. Weapons include, but are not limited to, firearms, explosives, knives, crossbows, pellet guns, explosive devices, incendiary devices and ballistic knives.

Firearm means any weapon capable of expelling or propelling one or more projectiles by the action of an explosive or combustible propellant. “Firearm” includes an unloaded firearm and any firearm that is inoperable but that can readily be rendered operable.

No person, except as expressly permitted by this policy, may possess a weapon, including a firearm, inside any University building. This includes academic buildings, libraries, residence and dining halls, administrative and other buildings. University buildings have signage prohibiting the possession of weapons including firearms.

ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University police officers and other sworn peace officers with police jurisdiction on ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University property or roads acting in furtherance of their duties and registered armored courier services with the written authorization of the Senior Vice President for Finance and Business Services may possess and carry firearms on University property.

Ohio law permits Ohio peace officers to carry a concealed handgun in an establishment serving the public on ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University’s property. This includes restaurants located in the Armstrong Student Center, the Marcum Conference Center and Inn, sports venues, and the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University Bookstore. Other law enforcement personnel may possess and carry firearms on University property with the written authorization of the Chief of the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University Police Department.

Students who wish to bring a firearm to campus for off campus use may make arrangements to store it with the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University Police Department. 

Due to the risk of being identified as a real weapon, any fake weapon (e.g. firearm) in appearance and which is utilized on ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University property must be reported to and approved by the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University Police Department prior to being used in any University activity.  Examples of these activities include but are not limited to plays, class presentations, ROTC military exercises and ceremonial uses.

The possession of pepper spray for personal protection is permitted. Use of pepper spray in a manner other than for personal protection that causes or threatens serious harm to the safety or security of others is prohibited.

Any student or employee who violates this policy is subject to University disciplinary action. Disciplinary action may include discharge, suspension or dismissal from the University. Such person may also be subject to criminal prosecution. Visitors are subject to criminal prosecution. Any visitor who violates this policy may be immediately removed from University property by ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University Police.

Related Form(s)

Not applicable.

Additional Resources and Procedures

Not applicable.

FAQ

Not applicable.

Policy Administration

Next Review Date

7/1/2023

Responsible Officer

• Sr. Vice President for Finance and Business Services
• General Counsel

Legal Reference

• ORC 9.68
• ORC 2923.126

Compliance Policy

No

Revision History

 New July 2019

Reference ID

N/A

Reviewers

• Sr. Vice President for Finance and Business Services
• General Counsel