The Digital Collegian - Published independently by students at Penn State
OPINIONS
[ Friday, Nov. 30, 2001 ]

Letter to the Editor
Judicial Affairs action needed in assault case

The lack of action by the Penn State Office of Judicial Affairs is upsetting. During last spring's riot about 40 Penn State students were arrested and charged with crimes associated with that night's violence. Before the students were convicted of civil charges the Office of Judicial Affairs took swift action -- 14 of these students were expelled immediately from Penn State.

Penn State's policy on sexual assault states: "The university does not tolerate sexual assault or abuse, such as rape (including acquaintance rape) or other forms of nonconsensual sexual activity." Jean Celestin, the Penn State senior who was convicted of sexual assault almost two months ago, is still attending Penn State. Since his conviction the university has sat idly by while this convicted felon is allowed to walk across campus and attend classes. This is happening in spite of the fact that the university has no tolerance for the crime he committed. Additionally, Mr. Celestin will most likely graduate before the administration takes action against him.

This case is another prime example illustrating that we are living in a society that tolerates rape and sexual assault. Apparently sexual assault is not a serious enough crime for the university to take action. Although the victim's request of postponing the review board should be taken into consideration, the university has an unavoidable responsibility to uphold its code of conduct.

Jarrett L. Heller
sophomore-crime, law and justice
 



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