LAS CRUCES, N.M. — A student’s lawsuit against New Mexico State University, claiming sexual assault in 2022, has reached a resolution with the university agreeing to a $1 million settlement. This decision, made by the NMSU Board of Regents, prevents the case from going to trial.
The lawsuit contended that the university failed to take necessary steps to avert the assault, allowing the accused student to continue attending classes while delaying an investigation into the allegations. The plaintiff argued that the university’s inaction not only compounded her trauma but also jeopardized the safety of other students.
As part of the settlement, finalized in July, the university will implement mandatory training on sexual consent, as well as protocols for preventing and reporting sexual assault. This initiative aims to foster a safer campus environment and ensure that students are better informed about their rights and resources.
In conjunction with the civil case, the student accused of the assault faced three counts of criminal sexual penetration. However, after a jury trial, he was acquitted on all charges. This outcome highlighted the complex nature of such cases and the difficulty of proving allegations in court.
The settlement has sparked discussions about university policies regarding sexual assault and the support systems in place for victims. Advocates for survivors emphasize the importance of responsive and proactive measures by educational institutions to address such serious complaints effectively.
With the settlement now finalized, many hope it marks a step forward in addressing the broader issues of sexual violence on college campuses. The university’s commitment to education and preventative measures may help foster a culture where students feel safer and more empowered to report incidents when they occur.
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