Inquest opened into death of former Cambridge professor Jason Arday amid plagiarism allegations
Jason Arday, a former professor of sociology of education at Cambridge University, was found dead at his south‑London home in mid‑August. He had resigned from Cambridge after plagiarism accusations and challenges to his personal claims surfaced, and he said the allegations were racially motivated. Senior coroner Dr. Julian Morris indicated that the circumstances could point to an unnatural death, prompting a formal inquest at London Inner South Coroner's Court. Supporters have described the media coverage as a "lynching" and are calling for accountability for journalists involved.
How this was covered
- Right-leaning outlets covered this 3h later
- Right-leaning coverage is the most divided on this story
Why it matters
The case raises questions about how academic misconduct allegations and intense media scrutiny affect individuals and institutions.
How this story developed
- Aug 17 Cambridge chancellor condemns racist backlash surrounding late professor Jason Arday
- Aug 17 Cambridge University announced a review of its hiring process and scholarly output.
- Aug 18 Police said the death was unexpected and non‑suspicious.
- Aug 19 Green Party members will debate an emergency motion to establish state‑run regulators addressing racism and ableism in media reporting.
- Aug 21 University and College Union’s Solidarity Movement held an online session to draft a response to Arday’s death.
- Aug 25 University leaders have publicly pledged to address racism in the wake of Arday’s death.
- Aug 27 An inquest into Arday’s death was opened at London Inner South Coroner's Court.
