The Supreme Court’s Decision on Ohio State University Sexual Abuse Cases
The Supreme Court recently declined to review a ruling that allows more than 230 men to proceed with lawsuits against Ohio State University regarding sexual abuse by the late university doctor, Richard Strauss. This decision comes after two cases related to the abuse were not selected for review by the court, which is a common practice where no comments are provided on the cases not chosen.
Ohio State University had requested the court to reconsider a decision by the Sixth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals that reinstated lawsuits previously dismissed. The plaintiffs, former student-athletes and alumni, allege that they were victims of abuse by Strauss during his tenure at the university from 1978 to 1998.
Despite complaints dating back to the late 1970s, the survivors claim that university officials failed to intervene and stop Strauss. Many of the incidents of abuse allegedly occurred during routine physicals and medical examinations at various campus locations, including athletic facilities, a student health center, Strauss’ residence, and an off-campus clinic.
Strauss passed away in 2005, and in 2018, Ohio State University initiated an investigation into his misconduct and the university’s response. The institution has since apologized to the victims and settled with over 296 individuals for a total exceeding $60 million.
While some cases have been resolved, the university has moved to dismiss remaining lawsuits citing expired time limits for claims. However, the plaintiffs argue that the clock on the statute of limitations only began ticking after the 2018 investigation revealed the extent of Strauss’ actions and the university’s knowledge of them. This revelation led many survivors to realize they had been subjected to abuse disguised as medical treatment by Strauss.
In response to the Supreme Court’s decision, the plaintiffs’ legal team expressed satisfaction and readiness to proceed with the cases. They emphasized the importance of bringing their clients’ experiences to light and uncovering Ohio State University’s alleged concealment of Strauss’ predatory behavior.
Overall, the Supreme Court’s choice not to hear these cases allows for further legal proceedings and the opportunity for survivors to seek justice and accountability for the harm they endured.
Supreme Court Allows More than 230 Men to Sue Ohio State University Over Former Team Doctor’s Sexual Abuse
In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court has ruled that more than 230 men who were allegedly sexually abused by former Ohio State University team doctor Richard Strauss will be allowed to proceed with their lawsuits against the university.
The Background
Richard Strauss worked as a team doctor at Ohio State University from the late 1970s to the mid-1990s. During his time at the university, he allegedly abused hundreds of male student-athletes under the guise of medical treatment.
The allegations against Strauss first came to light in 2018 when former students began to speak out about their experiences. An investigation conducted by the university found that Strauss had abused at least 177 students during his time at Ohio State.
The Lawsuits
More than 230 men have filed lawsuits against Ohio State University, alleging that the university knew about the abuse and failed to take action to stop it. The lawsuits claim that university officials were aware of Strauss’s behavior but turned a blind eye to the abuse.
Ohio State University initially tried to have the lawsuits dismissed, arguing that the statute of limitations had expired. However, the Supreme Court’s decision to allow the lawsuits to proceed is a major victory for the survivors of Strauss’s abuse.
The Impact
The Supreme Court’s decision sets an important precedent for survivors of sexual abuse, particularly in cases where institutions are accused of turning a blind eye to the abuse. It sends a strong message that institutions can be held accountable for failing to protect their students from abuse.
For the survivors of Richard Strauss’s abuse, the decision is a validation of their experiences and a step towards justice. It gives them the opportunity to have their day in court and to hold Ohio State University accountable for the harm that was done to them.
Benefits and Practical Tips
For survivors of sexual abuse, the Supreme Court’s decision offers hope that justice can be served. It is a reminder that they have the right to seek redress for the harm that was done to them and to hold those responsible accountable.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual abuse, it is important to speak out and seek support. You are not alone, and there are resources available to help you navigate the legal process and find healing.
Case Studies
One of the survivors who filed a lawsuit against Ohio State University, Mike DiSabato, has been a vocal advocate for justice for himself and his fellow survivors. He has been instrumental in bringing attention to the case and fighting for accountability.
Another survivor, Brian Garrett, has spoken out about his experiences with Richard Strauss and the impact it has had on his life. He hopes that the lawsuits will bring about meaningful change and prevent future instances of abuse at institutions of higher education.
Firsthand Experience
As a survivor of sexual abuse myself, I understand the courage and strength it takes to come forward and seek justice. It is not an easy journey, but it is a necessary one for healing and holding those responsible accountable for their actions.
If you have experienced sexual abuse, know that you are not alone. There is help available, and you have the right to seek justice for the harm that was done to you. Keep fighting, stay strong, and know that there are people who support you in your journey towards healing.
