Penn State eyes changes to sexual misconduct case handling

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. -- A Penn State task force is recommending the university change how it handles sexual misconduct, suggesting the school devote an investigator and other staff to the cases.

The university's Task Force on Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment made its report public Thursday, saying all campuses should move away from the traditional hearing process and instead having a group of faculty and staff review an investigator's work.

The panel also suggests Penn State release more detailed data including student conduct sanctions, and that it replace a hotline with a better way for people to make reports and complaints.

The group also endorses improving staff training and expanding victim services at campuses outside University Park.

The recommendations are in the hands of Penn State president Eric Barron, who convened the task force.