United Group Insurance

Iowa State U. faces federal inquiry on sexual violence cases

News

January 29th, 2015 by Ric Hanson

AMES, Iowa (AP) – A federal agency is investigating whether Iowa State University has responded appropriately to reports of sexual violence against students. The school confirmed Thursday that the U.S. Department of Education Office of Civil Rights is investigating its handling of a 2014 assault of a female student by a male student.

An Oct. 15 letter from the agency to ISU President Steven Leath says investigators will look into whether the school has failed to “promptly and equitably” respond to complaints of sexual violence, including the female student’s report. Iowa State spokesman John McCarroll said an investigation by campus police has led to a criminal charge against the male student. He says the student faces a disciplinary hearing next month.

McCarroll said school officials believe they’ve acted appropriately and are cooperating with investigators.