1. Purpose

Ezra University is committed to combatting plagiarism and copyright infringement. Pursuant to certain stipulations in the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008 (HEOA), Ezra University complies with regulations pertaining to the distribution of copyrighted materials. As part of this compliance, the University has adopted and implemented a plan to combat plagiarism and copyright infringement. This policy serves to fulfill those requirements and outlines the University’s position regarding this topic.

2. Policy Statement

Plagiarism and copyright infringement of any kind is not permitted at Ezra University and may subject the infringer to criminal and civil penalties as well as dismissal from the university.

3. Penalties

3.1 Code of Student Conduct

Plagiarism, unauthorized copying, sharing or distribution of copyrighted material is strictly prohibited. It is a violation of federal law, the Copyright Act, and of the Code of Student Conduct. Students who infringe a copyright are subject to disciplinary action under the Code of Student Conduct, up to and including expulsion.

3.2 Penalties for Copyright Infringement

The US Government takes this seriously!In addition, penalties for copyright infringement include civil and criminal penalties. In general, anyone found liable for civil copyright infringement may be ordered to pay either actual damages or “statutory” damages affixed at not less than $750 and not more than $30,000 per work infringed. For “willful” infringement, a court may award up to $150,000 per work infringed. A court can, in its discretion, also assess costs and attorneys’ fees. For details, see Title 17, United States Code, Sections 504, 505.

Willful copyright infringement can also result in criminal penalties, including imprisonment of up to five years and fines of up to $250,000 per offense. We are committed to honesty and integrity here at Ezra University. Please don’t put your academic future in jeopardy by plagiarism and/or copying textbooks. We understand how expensive textbooks can be but breaking the law is a whole more expensive!