USU Takes Action to Address Sexual Assault

Utah State University freshman football player, Ismael "Izzy" Kalani Vaifo'ou, was suspended from the team and all team activities on Sunday, April 18, after he had been arrested on multiple charges, including forcible sexual abuse.

Vaifo’ou was booked into Cache County Jail, and the case is under investigation by USU police as the incident allegedly occurred in campus housing. USU Police has issued a trespass order against Vaifo’ou, which prohibits him from entering campus without a police escort.

“Our first priority in any situation involving a crime is the safety of our students and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of any victims involved,” said Amanda DeRito, university spokesperson.

USU Police has a specialized unit that includes a confidential advocate from USU’s Sexual Assault and Anti-Violence Information office and a dedicated law enforcement detective to respond to reported incidents of sexual misconduct. The advocate offers assistance with filing protective orders, sexual violence protective orders, and dating violence protective orders, and helps the victim access other on and off-campus resources like confidential counseling.

USU continually assesses threats to campus and takes appropriate action. Cases of sexual misconduct on campus are also shared with the university’s Title IX coordinator for investigation and possible sanctioning. In cases involving criminal behavior, the university has a process for an emergency removal of a student who is considered an immediate safety threat.

Students and employees are encouraged to report sexual misconduct. Find information about reporting options and how to seek confidential advocacy and counseling at www.sexualrespect.usu.edu.

Utah State is also currently implementing its third sexual misconduct survey, open to both students and employees. This survey is used to gather information about the attitudes and experiences around sexual misconduct as well as how to better prevent and respond to misconduct when it occurs. Both surveys close on Thursday, April 22. Learn more on Utah State Today.