The shadow of sexual abuse continues to loom over Ohio State University (OSU) as the institution grapples with over 2,800 reported instances of alleged misconduct by the late team doctor, Richard Strauss. This staggering number, revealed in the university’s latest campus crime data, underscores the devastating scope of Strauss’s alleged actions spanning decades. The vast majority of these allegations, encompassing over 170 instances of rape and more than 2,600 instances of fondling, surfaced between 2018 and 2020, primarily through a law firm investigation commissioned by OSU and numerous lawsuits filed against the university.
FILE PHOTO: Dr. Richard Strauss, the former Ohio State University team doctor accused of widespread sexual abuse. (Ohio State University via AP, File)
It’s crucial to understand that these figures, disclosed under the federal Clery Act, reflect the year the incidents were reported, not when they allegedly occurred. The 2020 data alone adds dozens of rape allegations and approximately 470 instances of alleged fondling to the grim tally against Strauss. The sheer volume of allegations paints a disturbing picture of widespread abuse, with many victims reporting multiple incidents.
Hundreds of men claim Strauss abused them across various locations, including campus athletic facilities, the student health center, his private residence, and an off-campus clinic. These survivors allege that OSU failed to intervene and protect them despite student concerns raised throughout Strauss’s 20-year tenure at the university. The university’s alleged inaction has fueled outrage and legal battles, leaving many questioning how such pervasive abuse could go unchecked for so long.
FILE PHOTO: Ohio State University campus sign. The university faces numerous lawsuits related to the Richard Strauss abuse scandal. (AP Photo/Angie Wang, File)
In response to the mounting allegations and public pressure, Ohio State has issued apologies and reached settlements with 185 plaintiffs totaling nearly $47 million. Further settlements with dozens more individuals are pending, though the specific amounts remain undisclosed. While these settlements offer some measure of financial redress, they cannot fully erase the trauma experienced by the survivors.
The legal battles surrounding the Strauss case are complex and ongoing. A federal judge recently dismissed some of the largest outstanding lawsuits against OSU, citing statute of limitations issues. However, the plaintiffs in these dismissed cases are determined to appeal the decision, ensuring the legal fight continues. Other cases involving dozens more accusers are also still pending. The ongoing litigation underscores the long road to justice and accountability for the survivors of Strauss’s alleged abuse.
Strauss died by suicide in 2005, precluding any criminal prosecution. No one has publicly defended his actions, leaving a legacy of unanswered questions and profound pain for those affected by his alleged crimes. The ongoing legal proceedings and the continued efforts of survivors to share their stories highlight the critical importance of institutional accountability and the pursuit of justice in cases of sexual abuse. The Ohio State University case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of unchecked power and the enduring impact of trauma on survivors. It also underscores the need for robust systems and policies to prevent and address sexual misconduct within institutions. The fight for justice and healing continues for the survivors of Richard Strauss’s alleged abuse, as they seek recognition, accountability, and a safer future for all.
