Eastern Michigan University President John Fallon, along with two other university officials, was fired after being accused of attempting to cover up the rape and murder of a student in an on-campus dormitory room. In December 2006, a police investigation concluded that the death of EMU student Laura Dickson was suspicious. Shortly thereafter, however, EMU officials released a statement declaring that “at this point, there is no reason to suspect foul play.” Two months later, a fellow student was arrested and charged with Dickinson’s rape and murder.
A recent report by the US Department of Education denounced EMU’s handling of the case, accusing university officials of violating the federal Clery Act, which requires that universities report campus crimes to the surrounding community.
Two other EMU officials — Vice President of Student Affairs James Vick and Public Safety Directory Cindy Hall — were also fired. Both Vick and Hall will receive a year’s salary totaling $245,253, and will be allowed to collect retirement benefits and pension. Fallon will collect one year’s salary of $225,000.
