Three members of the Vanderbilt University Police Department have been disciplined as a result of their actions after responding to a disturbance call Feb. 7 at the National Pan-Hellenic Council house.
The officers were disciplined following an extensive investigation by VUPD’s office of professional standards into their response to a complaint involving the Delphi House on West Side Row, which is used by the NPHC chapters.
“The Vanderbilt Police Department exists for the utmost purpose of ensuring the safety of our students, staff, faculty, patients and visitors. The investigation found that the officers involved made mistakes in the way they responded to this call, and we have taken the appropriate actions,” Assistant Vice Chancellor and VUPD Chief August Washington said.
“We have examined and continue to re-examine our procedures and our officers’ understanding of those procedures. VUPD officers, through continuous training, have an expectation to be aware of proper procedures and to utilize them at all times,” he said.
“This incident serves as a reminder that it is important that VUPD and students continue to work together to ensure that we have a safe, welcoming climate for all our students and their visitors,” Washington said. “Improving the lines of communications between VUPD and all students will go a long way in understanding and addressing students’ needs and concerns.”
Students involved in the incident were referred to the university’s Office of Student Conduct to determine what disciplinary action should be taken. Results of student conduct deliberations are confidential.
In keeping with university policies on personnel matters and federal policies on student privacy, the university has declined to name those involved in the incident.
Media contact: Elizabeth Latt. (615) 322-2706
elizabeth.p.latt@vanderbilt.edu