Massachusetts - State auditors are investigating allegations that Roxbury Community College has not accurately reported serious crimes on its campus.
A spokeswoman for the office confirmed the investigations Thursday, saying they were triggered by two complaints filed by public employees. She declined to provide more details, but told The Boston Globe that the accusations were reported under state regulations on financial improprieties.
Under the statute, known as Chapter 647, employees of state agencies must report "any unaccounted for variances, losses, shortages, or thefts of funds or property."
The probe has prompted an ongoing investigation by the US Department of Education into the college's compliance with federal laws on crime reporting.
The Globe reported last week that federal officials are looking into suspected lapses in its crime reporting.
From 2008 to 2010, the college reported just six criminal offenses - five aggravated assaults and a robbery - a particularly low number for an urban school.
By comparison, Bunker Hill Community College reported 26. Springfield Technical Community College reported 22, and Quinsigamond Community College tallied 18.
Federal officials have learned of at least three reports made by students that the college did not disclose.
Under the Clery Act, colleges are required to submit yearly crime statistics to federal education officials.
News of the investigation has prompted fears that funding for the college could be in jeopardy.
In a statement Wednesday, higher education commissioner Richard Freeland expressed support for the board of trustees.
"I've been in regular contact with the Roxbury Community College board of trustees and believe the board is appropriately addressing a range of issues at the college," the statement read. "The board has my full support."
Source: The Boston Globe
