177 former Ohio State University male students sexually abused by campus doctor; staff members aware
Around 180 Ohio State University male students claimed that they were sexually abused by a former campus doctor (now deceased) for more than two decades ago. The former students also claimed that the university staff knew of the abuse, however, they failed to act, according to a report released by the school.
Late Dr Richard Strauss was accused of abusing at least 177 male students when he worked as a physician for the university's athletic department and the student health centre from 1978 to 1998, the report said.
As per reports, staff members knew of the abuse as early as 1979 but no complaints were raised to administrators and senior officials until 1996. Then the school suspended and ultimately removed Strauss after a "very limited investigation" into a student's claim.
Meanwhile, university president Michael Drake apologised to the victims and said in a statement, "The findings are shocking and painful to comprehend." "Our institution’s fundamental failure at the time to prevent this abuse was unacceptable — as were the inadequate efforts to thoroughly investigate complaints raised by students and staff members," he said.
As per reports, Ohio State said in April 2018 it had launched an investigation after a victim came forward with allegations.
