Numerous requests for information from VCU reflect a pattern of secrecy. The school has repeatedly denied FOIA requests, threatened to charge thousands of dollars for the production of routine records, and refused to allow any images to be captured of the animals. What are they hiding behind those walls?
In response to questions from the Richmond Times-Dispatch about their animal research program, VCU responds that the requested information may cost $2,500 or more to produce and may not be covered by the Freedom of Information Act.
VCU refuses to release information such as notes and agendas from their governing body over animal research.
VCU estimates it will cost over $1,100 to produce routine veterinary and euthanasia records as well as any photographs or videos from their experiments.
In response to a FOIA request for pictures and videos related to their primate research programs, VCU provided this ONE, single photograph. According to VCU, this innocuous picture is the only photograph ever taken during the requested time period which spanned at least a year.
VCU refuses WRIC News’ request to see the animals, citing “safety to the animals and researchers.”