David Jeswald v. Bridgewater State University (SPR 20232783)

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts William Francis Galvin, Secretary of the Commonwealth Public Records Division Manza Arthur Supervisor of Records December 1, 2023 SPR23/2783 Laura Machado Records Access Officer Bridgewater State University Office of the President 131 Summer Street Bridgewater, MA 02325 Dear Ms. Machado: I have received the petition of David Jeswald appealing the response of the Bridgewater State University (University) to a request for public records. See G. L. c. 66, § 10A; see also 950 C.M.R. 32.08(1). On July 5, 2023, Mr. Jeswald requested “… copies of public records that pertain to the Bridgewater State University’s Employee communications involving [an identified individual] whereas either his name or it’s appearance is plausible to assume that the student has been alluded to in any way.” On August 11, 2023, the University responded and provided responsive records. The University identified one record that was redacted pursuant to Exemptions (a) and (c) of the Public Records Law. G. L. c. 4, § 7(26)(a), (c). The University also withheld numerous records pursuant to the attorney-client privilege. Unsatisfied with the University’s response, Mr. Jeswald petitioned this office and this appeal, SPR23/2783, was opened as a result. In a telephone conference with a University representative, the University stated that it intends on providing a further response to Mr. Jeswald. Accordingly, the University is ordered to provide Mr. Jeswald with said response in a manner consistent with the Public Records Law and its Regulations within ten (10) business days. A copy of any such response must be provided to this office. It is preferable to send an electronic copy of the response to this office at pre@sec.state.ma.us. Mr. Jeswald may appeal the substantive nature of the University’s response within ninety days. See 950 C.M.R. 32.08(1). One Ashburton Place, Room 1719, Boston, Massachusetts 02108 • (617) 727-2832• Fax: (617) 727-5914 sec.state.ma.us/pre • pre@sec.state.ma.us

Laura Machado SPR23/2783 Page 2 December 1, 2023 Sincerely, Manza Arthur Supervisor of Records cc: David Jeswald