Ohio State Settles $100 Million in Landmark Abuse Case

Ohio State University has agreed to a $100 million settlement with nearly 300 former students who accused the campus doctor, Richard Strauss, of sexual abuse. This settlement concludes years of litigation over decades of abuse, marking a significant resolution to a difficult chapter for the institution.

Ohio State University has reached a $100 million settlement with nearly 300 former students who accused the school's campus doctor of sexual assault, according to a joint statement released by the university and the victims' lawyer on Wednesday. This resolution was approved by the university's board and brings closure to years of legal battles.

The abuse, perpetrated by Richard Strauss, took place from 1978 until his retirement in 1998. Mediation continues, with further details expected to follow. Previously, the university settled with eight additional victims, bringing the total to 304 survivors and disbursing over $160 million.

Strauss, who was part of Ohio State's athletic department and medical staff, committed suicide in 2005. A 2019 report revealed he had abused at least 177 male students under the pretense of medical examinations, prompting over 500 lawsuits against the university for alleged negligence.