Professors seek justice for Vassell

AMHERST, Mass. (WWLP) - The faculty members of UMass Amherst have a petition signed by over 126 fellow professors seeking re-instatment for Jason Vassell. Vassell is accused of stabbing two men he says broke into his room and shouted racial epithets at him. He voluntarily left the University rather than face expulsion.

At a news conference this morning, a group called "UMass Faculty Concerned for Justice" said the evidence points to Vassell acting in self defense. They feel the University acted hastily in having Vassell leave campus before the case is resolved.