Bill, requiring colleges to report certain violent crimes, approved

A bill that would require college campuses in California to report certain violent crimes to local law enforcement, unless the victim requests anonymity, was approved with a 74-0 vote on Wednesday.

The legislation, introduced by Assemblyman Mike Gatto (D-Silver Lake), came about after several colleges were accused of covering up on-campus sexual assaults because of concerns that higher crime stats would influence prospective students to apply elsewhere.

“Victims of crime should not see their chances of justice hurt, nor should perpetrators be allowed to victimize others, because a school values its public image more than victims’ rights,” Gatto said in a statement. “Simple communication between campus officials and local law enforcement will ensure greater community awareness and increased public safety.”

-- Arin Mikailian, arin.mikailian@latimes.com

Follow on Twitter: @ArinMikailian.

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