New research shows a pattern of under-reporting of on-campus sexual assaults by universities and colleges across the nation, and some schools have continued to under-report even after being fined for violations of federal law, according to a study published by the American Psychological Association.
The woman who accused Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston of sexual assault has filed a civil suit against the university’s board of trustees.The suit claims FSU had knowledge of her alleged sexual harassment and discrimination by Winston, and that it created a hostile educational environment for her.
Federal investigations are underway at 55 colleges and universities, looking into whether they illegally handled sexual violence and harassment complaints, according to the U.S. Department of Education.
The White House is taking new actions to combat sexual assault, particularly on college campuses, as President Barack Obama announced a new task force to help educational institutions prevent and respond to sexual violence as well as beef up the ability of federal agencies to hold schools accountable if they aren’t addressing problems.