Anti-Discrimination & Harassment Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to maintain a safe, inclusive, and professional workplace free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Crime Trackers Massachusetts has zero tolerance for any conduct that undermines respect, equity, or operational integrity.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

  • All employees, full-time and part-time
  • Contract personnel
  • Operational volunteers
  • Supervisory and executive leadership
  • Interactions in person, virtually, or during organizational activities

3. Policy Statement

  • Discrimination or harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic is strictly prohibited.
  • Harassment includes verbal, physical, visual, or digital conduct that creates a hostile, intimidating, or offensive environment.
  • Retaliation against any individual who reports discrimination, harassment, or participates in an investigation is strictly prohibited.

4. Examples of Prohibited Conduct

  • Derogatory comments, slurs, or jokes targeting protected characteristics
  • Threatening, intimidating, or coercive behavior
  • Unwanted physical contact or sexual advances
  • Displaying offensive materials or images
  • Cyberbullying or harassing messages via email, text, or social media
  • Retaliatory actions following a complaint or whistleblower report

5. Reporting Procedures

Personnel are required to report suspected discrimination, harassment, or retaliation via:

  • Direct supervisor or manager
  • Human Resources or designated compliance officer
  • Anonymous reporting mechanisms (if available)

Reports should include details of the incident, individuals involved, dates, times, and any supporting evidence.

6. Investigation Process

  • All reports will be promptly and thoroughly investigated by HR, executive leadership, or a designated investigator.
  • Investigations will be impartial, confidential, and documented.
  • Employees under investigation will have the opportunity to respond to allegations.
  • Corrective actions will be implemented as necessary based on findings.

7. Corrective Actions

Confirmed violations may result in:

  • Verbal or written warnings
  • Suspension of duties
  • Demotion or reassignment
  • Termination of employment or engagement
  • Additional training or counseling for involved personnel

8. Anti-Retaliation Protections

  • Personnel who report incidents in good faith or participate in investigations are protected from retaliation.
  • Retaliatory behavior is considered a serious violation and may result in disciplinary action, up to termination.

9. Training & Awareness

  • All personnel shall receive anti-discrimination and harassment training during onboarding and annually thereafter.
  • Supervisors and leadership must undergo specialized training to recognize, prevent, and respond to harassment and discrimination.

10. Recordkeeping & Confidentiality

  • Reports, investigations, and outcomes will be documented and maintained securely.
  • Access to confidential records is limited to authorized personnel only.
  • Information will be shared on a need-to-know basis consistent with organizational policies and legal requirements.

11. Policy Review

This policy shall be reviewed annually to ensure compliance with applicable laws, best practices, and Crime Trackers Massachusetts’ commitment to a professional, safe, and respectful operational environment.