The family of the University of Idaho student murdered by her former professor has filed a $3 million dollar claim against the school.
In August, 22-year-old Katy Benoit was gunned down by former U of I psychology professor, Ernesto Bustamante. Bustamante then killed himself in a nearby hotel.
The pair had been involved in a sexual relationship. However, the relationship quickly turned violent. In June, Benoit filed a complaint with the U of I because she feared for her life. In that complaint, Benoit told university officials Bustamante threatened her with a gun on several occasions.
The tort claim, filed in December, alleges the university failed to protect Benoit and that its recklessness was a substantial factor in causing her murder.
The claim also alleges the university negligently and recklessly hired and supervised Bustamante and failed to require him to get mental health care.
Bustamante was bipolar and wasn't shy about his multiple personalities, including two he referred to as, "The Beast" and "The Psychopathic Killer."
According the Idaho Statesman, the university has not responded to the claim. Because 90 days has passed since the claim was filed, the Benoit family can now file a lawsuit if they choose to do so.
Since Benoit's murder, the university hired an independent board to take a closer look at its policies and procedures.
In November, that panel recommended the U of I develop a better way to handle concerns about disturbing or disruptive behavior by faculty members.