Brunel has been in the spotlight on social media because of a tweet sent yesterday morning from the Twitter account of a Doctoral Researcher who has been studying at the University.
The tweet, which included a threat of violence, was responded to by a member of staff who acted too quickly and misinterpreted the original post. Their initial response does not reflect the University position whatsoever and was deleted very shortly after, with an explanation and apology.
Brunel condemns threats of violence in all circumstances and we immediately initiated our investigation processes, which, given the seriousness, includes an immediate suspension and exclusion, and referral to the police. The immediate suspension and exclusion means that the student is not allowed to study or to enter campus.
Our own investigation is suspended until the police investigation ends, in order to ensure that the police investigation is not jeopardised. Though the outcome of the police investigation will inform our own subsequent investigation, it won’t be the only consideration.
The person who posted the initial response was a valued member of our team who made a single, grave error of judgement. They have since resigned so no further action will be taken.
Brunel is a safe and inclusive community and, bar the error of one member of staff which was immediately retracted, we have acted swiftly to address the issues, following the processes we have in place to do so.
Violence or threats of violence have no place in our community or on our campus and will not be tolerated.
Reported by:
Press Office,
Media Relations
+44 (0)1895 266867
press-office@brunel.ac.uk