OSU Sexual Abuse Attorneys – Wright & Schulte represents over 50 former Ohio State University athletes who suffered abuse at the hands of Dr. Strauss.
Dr. Strauss, a former Ohio State team doctor, sexually abused at least 177 male students from 1979-96. Wright & Schulte client, Michael DiSabato was the first Strauss accuser to report and come forward publicly.
Mr. DiSabato was a wrestler at Ohio State from 1987-91 when team doctor Richard Strauss roamed notorious Larkins Hall and, according to multiple undisputed allegations, abused his position to commit sexual misdeeds against Ohio State athletes.
In a statement released today, Mr DiSabato said:
“I was the first person to come forward and share details of abuse I suffered, at the hands of Dr. Strauss. From that day forward, people tried to discredit and call me a liar. Now the truth is being told. I feel vindicated, but I have mixed feelings.
Although a weight has been lifted off my back, I am deeply saddened to hear the stories of so many others who suffered similar abuse by Dr. Strauss, while Ohio State turned a blind eye.
Today’s Perkins Coie report, gives me courage and strength to keep fighting to ensure Ohio State is held accountable for the damage and trauma they caused me and my family. I am looking forward to my day in court.
I hope today’s report will provide other survivors who suffered abuse by Dr. Strauss and OSU, the courage and strength to come forward and tell their stories.”
“Today’s released Perkins Coie report shows a long history of abuse of OSU Athletes by Dr. Strauss,” stated Attorney Michael Wright. “It also substantiates Mr. DiSabato’s recollection of the abuse he suffered at the hands of Dr. Strauss. When Mr. DiSabato first came forward he and his family were persecuted and called liars. Today’s report clearly shows he was telling the truth.”
According to the report, OSU “had knowledge” of sexually abusive treatment from Strauss as early as 1979. However, “reports about Strauss’ conduct were not elevated beyond the Athletics Department or Student Health until 1996.”
The report was the result of a year-long investigation and involved interviews with more than 500 former students and university employees.
If you or someone you know has been sexually abused or harassed by Dr. Richard Strauss During His Employment at The Ohio State University. Please contact our office for a free and confidential case evaluation by calling 1-800-201-4810 or click here to request a free consultation.
READ FULL PERKINS COIE REPORT: Report of the Independent Investigation Sexual Abuse Committed By Dr. Richard Strauss at OSU REDACTED FINAL