Former OSU professor extradited by Benton County judge; OSU to offer support
Via Benton County Sheriff's Office
Brett Tyler, an OSU professor, was arrested on Oct. 7, 2021 for fugitive charges from the state of Virginia. Tyler was extradited by a Benton County Circuit Court judge on April 21 to the state of Virginia.
April 21, 2022
An Oregon State University professor fired in October 2021 after his arrest has been extradited by a Benton County Circuit Court judge to the state of Virginia.
Brett Tyler, a professor in the College of Agricultural Sciences and previous director for the Center for Quantitative Life Sciences was arrested by the U.S. Marshal Service on Oct. 7, 2021 for crimes of sexual misconduct that were committed in Virginia.
At the time of Tyler’s arrest, he resigned immediately from his position as CQLS director and worked remotely from home, due to the requirements associated with his grant-based research. The university took action by denying Tyler any access to on-campus resources as well as his contact with any OSU faculty, staff or students.
Tyler’s trial conducted in Virginia will surround his “serious charges” of sexual misconduct against two minor children between the years of 2005 to 2009, according to a statement released by Interim OSU President Becky Johnson on Thursday morning.
“I am deeply saddened for everyone impacted by these reported offenses, as well as for all in our community impacted by interpersonal violence and reports of violence against others,” Johnson said. “As an institution, OSU unequivocally condemns any form of sexual misconduct, child abuse and sexual violence.”
The statement also reiterated support available to OSU students and faculty, whether or not they interacted with Tyler during his time as a professor.
Employees that would like to seek out support should reach out to Bonny Ray, director of benefits and Human Resources Services, at [email protected] or by calling 541-737-2806.
Johnson also pointed students to the Survivor Advocacy and Resource Center, which will host a session with Counseling and Psychological Services next week. More details regarding this session will be shared here.
Two support groups sessions for employees have been scheduled; one was held Thursday at noon, and the next will be held on Friday, April 22, at noon. Registration for the upcoming session can be found here.
