U of U has new safety recommendations following McCluskey murder

SALT LAKE CITY — Representatives from the University of Utah and campus police have unveiled 30 safety upgrades following the murder of student athlete Lauren McCluskey on campus last year.

Most of the recommendations are aimed at the police department, including hiring more officers, detectives and a victim’s advocate. Chief Dale Brophy says that would cost around $400,000.

Chief Brophy says they’ve already made sure dispatch is live 24-7 and that any messages are passed on to an on-duty officer.

At the Board of Trustees meeting Tuesday, plans for more key card access for the dorms, as well as more training to spot domestic violence, were also discussed.

McCluskey’s killer has been identified as an ex-boyfriend she had notified campus police about several times in the weeks leading up to her death.

On Twitter, McCluskey’s mom Jill blasted the school for not letting her know about the meeting beforehand and added, “Will you admit that you didn’t respond appropriately to Lauren, which led to her death & take disciplinary action?”

In response to the victim’s family’s continued criticism, U of U President Ruth Watkins said she’s taking personal responsibility for implementing the 30 safety recommendations. But she will not fire anyone who “acted in good faith” in October and is committed to change.