N.J. university settles for $800K in suit over rape allegations
The estate of a William Paterson University student who took her own life after alleging she was raped at a fraternity party has settled a lawsuit against the school.
WAYNE, N.J. (AP) — The estate of a William Paterson University student who took her own life after alleging she was raped at a fraternity has settled a lawsuit against the school for $800,000.
Cherelle Locklear's mother alleged the university failed to adequately investigate the rape claims in 2015 and didn't question or discipline her alleged attacker.
Locklear hanged herself in a dormitory bathroom in November 2015 after the alleged rape at the Sigma Pi fraternity.
The lawsuit alleged negligence, infliction of emotional distress, and a violation of Title IX, the federal law protecting people at institutions receiving federal funds.
Under terms of the settlement, the university admitted no wrongdoing.
An attorney representing Locklear’s estate said a separate, confidential settlement was reached with the fraternity and didn’t disclose details.