Investigation sheds harsh light on campus police department

NEW BRITAIN, Conn. – An outside investigation into the way a Connecticut university handled a female campus police officer’s allegations of sexual assault by a male officer has found multiple issues within the department.

The results of the investigation were released Friday by Zulma Toro, president of Central Connecticut State University.

The report found the police chief knew about the 2016 allegation but didn’t pursue an investigation after discussing the issue with the school’s chief administrative officer, who oversees the department. He was placed on leave.

The investigation also found officers were hired despite a record of serious disciplinary action or disqualifying performance issues; the department has a “fraternity” type atmosphere; and required sexual harassment training wasn’t taken seriously.

Toro says she is “deeply disturbed and saddened” by the findings and is taking corrective action.