Dr. Richard Strauss, who served as team physician from the mid-1970s through the late 1990s, has been accused of sexual misconduct with Ohio State student-athletes including Buckeye wrestlers, along with other alleged acts of inappropriate conduct. Strauss died in 2005.
The Lantern -- the official Ohio State student newspaper -- reported Friday that the allegations stem from "one individual who alleges that the misconduct affected more than one person," according to a school spokesperson.
In addition, The Lantern reported that Strauss also was a member of the medical commission of the International Olympic Committee who attended the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles to drug test athletes.
To investigate alleged incidents from 20-45 years ago which have only been recently brought to light, Ohio State has notified appropriate law enforcement agencies, and enlisted the help of the Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine, and the state Bureau of Criminal Investigation. In addition, the school has hired an independent investigator.
As part of Ohio State's investigation of allegations against Strauss, the school is reaching out to former student-athletes, coaches and others who may have been affected or may have had knowledge of these alleged incidents.
Individuals who believe they experienced any form of sexual misconduct at the hands of an Ohio State student or employee while enrolled at the school are encouraged to report the incident to the Office of University Compliance and Integrity, or to Ohio State's Ethicspoint secure, anonymous reporting service, or directly to law enforcement.
According to the statement issued by the school, "Ohio State actively promotes a safe and healthy campus climate for students, faculty, staff and visitors. The university does not tolerate sexual misconduct and is committed to advancing a culture of civility and respect."
"Ohio State will report the outcome of the investigation publicly upon its completion."
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