Cambridge University professor in fraud controversy found dead

Jason Arde (41), a former Cambridge University professor who faced criticism for alleged large-scale intellectual property theft, has died. Former Cambridge University professor Jason Arde (41), who faced intense controversy and criticism over allegations of theft or plagiarism, has died.

Emergency services found his body at a house in Battersea, south London, on Friday (August 14). Police said the incident was unexpected but there were no apparent suspicious circumstances.

Jason resigned from his position as a lecturer in the ‘Sociology of Education’ at Cambridge University last week in the face of controversy. However, he had always denied all allegations of fraud against him.

Expressing deep sorrow over Jason’s death, his family said in a statement, “Jason could not bear the mental stress of this campaign based on false information. He was a very honest and kind-hearted man who always wanted the best for everyone.

It is worth noting that in 2023, Jason made history by becoming the youngest black professor at Cambridge at the age of 37. Jason's achievement, who could not speak until the age of 11 and learned to read and write at the age of 18, was seen as a unique chapter in the world of academia.

However, in 2024, a researcher named Nathan Cofnas accused Jason of plagiarism. In response, Jason admitted to some mistakes and said that due to his autism, he used imitation or 'mimicry' techniques in writing. However, denying intentional plagiarism, he said that this cruel behavior of the academic world and the attempt to make him a 'fraud' was completely unfair. Later, unable to bear the mental stress, he resigned.

The authorities of Cambridge, Glasgow and Durham universities have expressed deep sorrow over Jason's death. Cambridge Vice-Chancellor Deborah Prentice and Education Secretary Lucy Powell have expressed their deepest condolences to his family.

Meanwhile, Jason's death has raised serious questions about the protection of black professors in academia and the role of the media. Human rights activists and colleagues have complained that the level of personal attacks and media trial against Jason is unacceptable.

. BBC News.