FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JULY 14, 2021
CONTACT:
Autria Lindsay (202) 322-4401
SPOTLIGHT MICHIGAN STATEMENT ON THE DEMOTION OF UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN POLICE DETECTIVE MARK WEST
ANN ARBOR - Today, The Detroit News reported on the demotion of long-time University of Michigan police detective Mark West, the lead detective investigating sexual abuse and rape claims against Dr. Robert Anderson. West, a 27 year veteran with the department began investigating Anderson in 2018 and his work has been integral in not only exposing the heinous crimes committed by Anderson against nearly 900 students, but also the concerted coverup of these crimes by University officials. The demotion from detective down to road patrol officer also comes with a pay cut for the 51-year-old when he begins the new position in September.
In response, Spotlight Michigan Spokesperson Autria Lindsay issued the following statement:
"Spotlight Michigan is appalled that the University would make such a highly questionable decision to demote a dedicated public servant whose impeccable work uncovered nearly 40 years of horrible atrocities of rape and sexual abuse at the University of Michigan. Detective West's work speaks for itself, yet he's rewarded with a demotion and pay cut. The move is likely to raise red flags from anyone else demanding transparency and honesty from University officials."
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The full published article can be read here.
Spotlight Michigan is committed to exposing these crimes and providing a voice to the community of victims, families, friends, and University of Michigan alumni that demand accountability from the University for its failure to put students before predators. It is also imperative that protocols and procedures be updated and improved to ensure such systemic failures that allowed for both the abuse and the cover-up never happen again.
To learn more about Spotlight Michigan visit our website at www.spotlightmichigan.com
