Jim Jordan Deposed Over OSU Abuse Scandal Jim Jordan, the influential Ohio congressman, is scheduled to give sworn testimony this Friday concerning allegations that, during his time as an assistant wrestling coach (1987–1995), he knew about Dr. Richard Strauss’s predatory behavior toward student-athletes. This hearing marks a pivotal moment in an ongoing legal battle that could reshape his political standing and bring fresh scrutiny to institutional accountability.
Background: The Strauss Scandal at Ohio State
The Ohio State University sexual abuse scandal began in 2018 after an independent investigation revealed that Dr. Richard Strauss had abused at least 177 male student-patients—including wrestlers—between 1978 and 1998. The university initially attempted to keep the misdeeds under wraps; however, mounting evidence prompted lawsuits and a public reckoning. To date, OSU has paid over $60 million in settlement agreements to survivors.
A HBO documentary, Surviving Ohio State—executive produced by George Clooney—brought renewed national attention to this tragedy. It premiered last month and explores how gender norms and institutional defenses silenced male victims, including allegations that staff, such as Jordan, were aware yet did nothing.
The Deposition: Why It Matters
Legal teams representing former student-athletes have aggressively pursued testimony from anyone who might have had knowledge of Strauss’s abuse. Jordan, though not a defendant, has been named in multiple civil suits alleging he ignored reports of abuse. Plaintiffs’ attorneys have declared their intent to depose “every OSU employee alleged to have known about Strauss’s abuse.”
On the other side, Jordan’s spokesperson, Russell Dye, firmly denies the accusations: “As everyone knows, Chairman Jordan never saw or heard of any abuse, and if he had, he would have dealt with it.”. Yet testimony from former wrestlers, such as Dan Ritchie and Steve Snyder‑Hill, suggests otherwise. In Surviving Ohio State, Ritchie states that wrestlers spoke openly about Strauss’s inappropriate conduct, and Jordan responded with threats, not interventions.
Allegations & Reactions
Survivors have offered compelling statements under oath. Ritchie recounted explicit discomfort during what he described as “unnecessary genital exams,” urging intervention. Snyder‑Hill added: “Jordan’s locker was very close to Strauss’s… that’s hard to believe [he didn’t know].” Another survivor, Mike DiSabato, expects Jordan to “triple down” on his denial.
Such testimony highlights a stark contrast between Jordan’s public persona—an aggressive House Judiciary Committee chair—and the accusations that he defended institutional privilege over student safety. The GuardianDecider
Legal & Institutional Fallout
Ohio State has committed more than $60 million to settle with nearly 300 victims since 2018. Despite financial settlements, legal and ethical questions remain: Why did it take nearly two decades for abuse to be addressed publicly? And who among the coaching staff knew?
Independent investigations, including the 2019 Perkins Coie report, condemned OSU’s inaction. The internal probe confirmed that Strauss’s misconduct was an “open secret” and criticized the failure to report to law enforcement.
Political Implications for Jim Jordan
The deposition jeopardizes Jordan’s credibility and political future. Already polarizing, he faces pressure from both sides of the aisle—survivors label him unfit for leadership, while conservative allies rally behind him, dismissing the allegations as a “deep state” orchestrated attack.
If the deposition uncovers evidence contradicting Jordan’s denials, the political fallout could be severe. Given his central role in the push for House speaker and high-profile committee proceedings, the deposition could redefine public trust in his leadership.
Conclusion
Jim Jordan’s upcoming deposition is more than a legal formality—it is a critical juncture in a long-simmering scandal that challenges institutional accountability and political integrity. With compelling survivor testimony and a searing spotlight from Surviving Ohio State, this hearing could be the moment the truth comes sharply into focus. The results will resonate far beyond Ohio State’s athletic program, touching on issues of power, privilege, and justice in American politics.
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