Recently, several former employees have raised serious allegations about the culture within Brown University’s Department of Public Safety (DPS). They described it using words like “toxic,” “vindictive,” and “dangerous.” Many left their jobs due to harassment and a hostile work environment.
Reports reveal that some officers experienced harassment based on gender and sexual orientation. They expressed concerns about retaliation if they spoke up. Seven people shared their experiences with The Herald, but requested anonymity due to fear of consequences.
Brian Clark, a spokesperson for Brown University, stated that the institution takes all reports of harassment and discrimination seriously. He emphasized that maintaining a respectful workplace is a requirement for all departments, including DPS. However, he did not clarify if prior investigations addressed the specific incidents reported by employees.
Inside the department, a troubling culture appears to have taken hold. Some male employees allegedly gathered in the parking lot to make sexist and homophobic remarks. Many sources confirmed that female officers often faced disrespectful comments and criticism of their abilities.
A former employee shared her experience with Sergeant Kevin Pepere, who sent her inappropriate messages, despite her clear disinterest. After she reported concerns to her supervisors, she felt ignored and later lost her job for allegedly violating University policy—an action she claimed she was instructed to undertake.
The employee was presented with a separation agreement which limited her options for legal recourse. The difficulty of choosing between her professional reputation and potential legal battles weighed heavily on her decision-making. Pepere continues to work at DPS without any recorded consequences for his behavior.
Many employees pointed fingers at Deputy Chief John Vinson for fostering a hostile work environment. Several sources described him as a micromanager who threatened to fire those who voiced concerns. Vinson’s past, including his resignation from the University of Washington amid similar allegations, raises questions about his leadership style.
At the University of Washington, a review highlighted a culture of intimidation and fear under Vinson’s leadership, discouraging open communication among staff. Racial discrimination allegations also emerged during his tenure, leading to a significant lawsuit that resulted in a jury awarding $16 million to several Black employees.
Brown hired Vinson as deputy chief of DPS in April 2022, but it remains unclear if the university considered his previous controversies at the University of Washington during the hiring process.
