Outside consultant completes report on campus online threat response

Outside consultant John Vinson, hired by Western Washington University to review the procedures and processes used to investigate a threat made via Yik Yak last November, has completed his report, which is available online here.

Vinson, police chief at the University of Washington, reviewed Western’s response to the Yik Yak threat made last November against Western’s Associated Students president. His review includes a description and analysis of actions taken. His findings state that Western University Police’s investigatory process was comprehensive, complete and in compliance with law enforcement best practices. His review includes lessons learned as well as recommendations for improvements.

Western President Bruce Shepard said the review was important, and that the findings and recommendations will help provide future direction for the university. A management response by Western’s Administration is here.

Some recommendations of the report:

• The University may wish to hire a victim advocate who can serve as a resource for victims at the university, and allow the university to have a victim-centered approach for all victims.
• Ensure all University Police officers receive trauma informed investigation training.
• Develop a protocol and train additional senior leadership for emergency response in the absence of the vice presidents.
• Create a campus security advisory committee with membership that is comprised of a cross-section of the university community, to include faculty, staff, students and external community members.

Vinson became the University of Washington Police Department Chief in February 2009. Chief Vinson holds a doctorate in public administration from Western Michigan University and came to the University of Washington with 15 years of law enforcement experience, including 10 years of supervisory and administrative experience. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Central Michigan and a master’s degree in administration. He is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy.