In “Federal April 16 findings under wraps,” (CT, Feb. 23) the implication that there’s nothing to hide is, unfortunately, another attempt to do just that. This is simply a continuation of the ongoing efforts to cover-up the truth of April 16, 2007. Since when does the U.S. Department of Education send a draft document of findings to an institution?
Is Virginia Tech spokesman Larry Hincker saying that the Department of Education, a federal agency, is requesting that the Tech administration actually submit corrections to what the Department of Education has stated relative to Clery Act violations committed by the school?
If the answer is no, and there is nothing to hide, then simply release the preliminary findings from the Department of Education stating that the administration does not agree. If there is nothing to hide, why not do that?
Is it possible, however, that the real reason there is “nothing to hide” is because the Department of Education submitted a report of preliminary findings to Tech administrators that cites violations and the school simply needs more time to prepare a response? In other words, the best spin?
Given that the Department of Education issued a preliminary report of findings and not simply a draft document, eventually this will be a public document.
It does seem interesting that this delay tactic seems to connect very well with the corresponding delay in the re-appointment decision of Judge William Alexander. Alexander was appointed by the Virginia Supreme Court to preside over the Julia Pryde and Erin Peterson cases that were approved to proceed.
It appears rather obvious that some people in very high office will go to any lengths to ensure the truth never sees the light of day because of how it reflects on not only a state institution but also on state government. This is no coincidence.
Mike Pohle
Father of April 16 victim Mike Pohle Jr.