Board Fires 3 EMU Officials after Homicide Cover-up

YPSILANTI, Mich. – After firing President John Fallon on July 16, the Eastern Michigan University (EMU) Board of Regents ousted two more officials the following day in response to the school’s decision to conceal a student’s murder.

The board permitted Jim Vick, vice president of student affairs, and Cindy Hall, public safety director, to retire with pensions and benefits as well as a full year’s salary, which together add up to $245, 253. Fallon will also receive his annual pay of $225,000.

The scandal came to light last February when authorities arrested Orange Taylor III for the rape and murder of fellow student Laura Dickinson. Up until that point, the university had told her friends, family and the press that they suspected no foul play in her death on Dec. 15, despite evidence indicating otherwise.

Taylor has pleaded not guilty to charges of murder and criminal sexual conduct. His trial is set for Oct. 15.

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