Investigating serious abuses must be taken out of universities’ hands

Universities shouldn't be investigating allegations of misconduct at all, certainly not if the allegation is that a criminal offence has been committed. That's what the police are for - they have the time and expertise and it's their JOB to investigate claims of wrongdoing.

The problem is similarly apparent in Australia, where despite all the Codes of Conduct and even an Australian Research Integrity Council, universities continue to self-regulate and allow bullying to continue at all levels. Attempts to go external through the State Ombudsman similarly go nowhere with the Ombudsman simply referring back to the University concerned. Academia has truly lost its way.