Consequences for Cornell Student?
Left to care for another's dog, Cornell University senior Alexander Atkind allegedly beat the dog severely and doused her head and body with bleach. The dog, Princess, was discovered with a deep laceration on her head, and was additionally treated for chemical burns as well as gastrointestinal issues likely caused by the ingestion of bleach. A grand jury will consider a felony animal cruelty indictment.
Atkind was reportedly 5 weeks away from graduation at the time of the incident, which occurred off campus property. This case illustrates the potential, and perhaps obligation, which academic institutions have to commit to a standard for student behavior which considers - and takes a meaningful stand against - criminal violence, acknowledging its well-documented (often thanks to the research efforts of the academic community) effects in society.