S. Department of Education has imposed a groundbreaking $14 million fine on the Christian university for failing to comply with the Clery Act, a federal law aimed at ensuring campus safety. This penalty, the largest ever recorded, comes after a thorough investigation that uncovered serious and systemic violations.

Department officials announced the settlement on Tuesday, revealing that the probe revealed numerous violations committed by the university between 2016 and 2023. The more than 100-page report described how Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, discouraging students from reporting crimes, providing inadequate responses to incidents of sexual violence, and failing to communicate criminal activities and dangerous situations, such as gas leaks, to the campus community. Additionally, it was found that the institution did not maintain an accurate or complete list of crimes.

The investigation involved reaching out to approximately 100 individuals, including former and current university employees, students, and parents. The findings paint an alarming picture of the university's persistent disregard for campus safety.

As part of the settlement, Liberty University must pay the hefty $14 million fine, the largest ever imposed for Clery Act violations. Additionally, the institution is required to allocate $2 million for campus safety improvements during a two-year federal monitoring period, which concludes in April 2026.

Richard Cordray, the chief operating officer of the Education Department's Federal Student Aid office, emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and security of students, faculty, and staff. Cordray stated, "Students, faculty, and staff deserve to know that they can be safe and secure in their school communities. We respond aggressively to complaints about campus safety and security."

Liberty University administrators have acknowledged the violations identified in the report and expressed their commitment to rectify the shortcomings. The university issued a statement emphasizing their dedication to Clery Act compliance and the safety of their students and staff. They admitted to past deficiencies, and while acknowledging the past failures, they stated that necessary improvements have been taken seriously.

The university also highlighted the significant investments already made in campus safety, amounting to over $10 million since 2022.

The $14 million fine imposed on Liberty University surpasses the previous Clery Act settlement records. In 2019, the fine imposed on Michigan State University for violations amounted to $4.5 million, followed by the University of California, Berkeley, which was fined $2.35 million in 2020.

The substantial penalty imposed on Liberty University underscores the government's commitment to enforcing campus safety regulations. It serves as a powerful reminder to educational institutions nationwide that compliance with federal laws governing crime reporting on campuses is essential to ensure the well-being of students and staff.