New Lawsuit Alleges Ohio State Did Nothing in Wake of Sexual Abuse Allegations Against Dr. Richard Strauss

Four former Ohio State wrestlers have filed a federal class-action lawsuit alleging the university did nothing in response to allegations Dr. Richard Strauss sexually assaulted them during routine medical examinations.

The suit, which the wrestlers filed Monday in Columbus, accuses Ohio State of Title IX and Civil Rights violations, and alleges that male athletes in 14 sports were subject to “excessive and medically unnecessary fondling, touching and groping” during routine medical examinations.

Ohio State held a hearing on allegations against Strauss in 1997, according to the suit, and he was allegedly allowed to “quietly retire.”

The plaintiffs, listed only as "John Does," seek punitive damages, pre- and post-judgment interest, attorney fees and "other relief as the court deems proper." The suit, which claims a student first complained about Strauss in 1978, alleges the university took no action despite being repeatedly informed of Strauss' behavior.