News Summary
U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan was questioned under oath regarding allegations of sexual abuse at Ohio State University linked to former doctor Richard Strauss. The lawsuit, filed by former student-athletes, claims the university failed to address known abusive behavior. Witness testimonies suggest Jordan was made aware of Strauss’s misconduct but denies any knowledge. The investigation continues as the broader implications of university accountability and the history of abuse are scrutinized, especially following a recent documentary highlighting these issues.
Columbus, Ohio – Jim Jordan Questioned Under Oath in Ohio State Sexual Abuse Lawsuit
U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan, a Republican from Ohio, was questioned under oath in July as part of a federal lawsuit tied to allegations of sexual abuse at Ohio State University. The legal proceedings focus on the university’s failure to prevent abuse committed by former doctor Richard Strauss, who served the institution from 1978 to 1998 and died in 2005.
Overview of the Lawsuit and Allegations
The lawsuit was filed by former student-athletes who claim that the university knew or should have known about Strauss’s abusive behavior but did not take appropriate action. Hundreds of athletes have come forward accusing Strauss of sexual misconduct, describing long-term abuse during their time at Ohio State. The allegations highlight a failure on the university’s part to protect students from harm despite multiple warning signs.
Jim Jordan’s Role and Testimony
During the legal deposition, Jim Jordan, who served as an assistant coach with the Ohio State wrestling team from 1986 to 1994, was questioned about his knowledge of Strauss’s misconduct. Although Jordan has previously been questioned during Ohio State’s independent investigation, this deposition marked his first formal testimony under oath in connection with the lawsuit.
Jordan’s office reiterated his denial of any knowledge of Strauss’s inappropriate actions at the time, emphasizing that he was unaware of allegations or misconduct involving Strauss during his tenure as a coach. The office declined to confirm whether Jordan’s deposition was recorded or if he provided specific details during the process.
Associated Evidence and Witness Testimonies
Other key individuals questioned in the case include plaintiffs Michael Murphy and John Doe 72, as well as former Ohio State Athletic Director Andy Geiger. Witnesses have provided accounts suggesting that Jordan was aware of reports regarding Strauss’s behavior.
A notable witness, Fred Feeney, recounted reporting Strauss’s inappropriate conduct to Jordan and another coach, who allegedly dismissed his concerns. Former wrestler Dan Ritchie stated that Jordan downplayed the severity of Strauss’s actions but claimed he would have taken action if he had known the extent of the abuse.
Implications from Ohio State’s Past Investigations
The 2019 university investigation revealed over 177 students had been assaulted by Strauss, with the abuse taking place multiple times over two decades. Despite these revelations, Jordan has not been directly named as a defendant in any of the lawsuits. His involvement remains at the level of questioning and denial of awareness regarding Strauss’s misconduct.
Recent Developments and Media Coverage
The deposition occurred shortly after the release of “Surviving Ohio State”, an HBO and Max documentary produced by George Clooney that explores the Strauss scandal. The documentary has brought renewed attention to allegations against Ohio State and has featured portrayals suggesting that Jordan was aware or informed of the abuses.
The documentary’s airing has intensified scrutiny of Jordan, especially as some witnesses and survivors have criticized how the university responded to initial reports of abuse. One survivor, James Snyder-Hill, expressed skepticism about Jordan’s truthfulness and accused the university of offering inadequate compensation to victims, prompting some survivors to seek larger settlements similar to other sexual abuse cases.
Current Status and Ongoing Investigations
While Jordan has not been sued directly, the investigation continues to examine whether leadership at Ohio State failed to act appropriately. The lawsuit and deposition are part of broader efforts to uncover the full scope of Strauss’s misconduct and the university’s response. As the case unfolds, officials, witnesses, and survivors await further legal proceedings and potential revelations concerning accountability and institutional responsibility.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- AP News: Jim Jordan Deposition in Ohio State Abuse Case
- Los Angeles Times: Opinion on Ohio State Wrestling Sex Abuse
- Dayton Daily News: Jordan Forced to Answer Questions in Deposition
- Meadville Tribune: Jim Jordan Deposed in Federal Suit
- NBC4i: Rep. Jim Jordan to be Questioned Under Oath
- Wikipedia: Richard Strauss (Doctor)
- Google Search: Jim Jordan Ohio State Abuse Scandal
- Google Scholar: Ohio State Sexual Abuse
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sexual Abuse
- Google News: Ohio State University Jim Jordan
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
