While Buckeyes fans are caught up in following the Zach Smith domestic violence controversy, the school has landed in negative headlines again. A former Ohio State team doctor, who worked at the school from 1978-98 and committed suicide in 2005, is accused of sexual misconduct against at least 145 people.
Seattle-based law firm Perkins Coie, which Ohio State hired to investigate the situation, has interviewed more than 335 individuals about Dr. Richard Strauss, according to the Associated Press. Strauss has been accused of "groping scores of male athletes and other students," per the report.
Earlier this month, the U.S. Department of Education opened a Title IX investigation into OSU's handling of Strauss, and more than 12 former students have filed lawsuits against the school. In these lawsuits, the individuals are "accusing school officials of facilitating abuse by ignoring complaints and requiring some athletes to get physicals from him to maintain their sports participation and scholarships," according to WOSU Radio.
An excerpt from one of the lawsuits states: "Beginning his very first year of employment at OSU—and spanning his entire two-decade tenure—Dr. Strauss preyed on male students, fondling, groping, sexually assaulting, and harassing them. He did so with OSU's knowledge and support."
The school's student newspaper, The Lantern, writes that the fact-gathering phase of the investigation could be over by the end of the fall.
Ohio State's president, Michael Drake, released a statement in late July: "We are grateful to those who have come forward and remain deeply concerned for anyone who may have been affected by Dr. Strauss’ actions. We remain steadfastly committed to uncovering the truth."
