Northwestern University is facing a series of lawsuits related to a football hazing scandal, with new claims emerging, including allegations of abuse of a minor. Eight former Wildcats have now filed lawsuits against the university, including one involving a 17-year-old freshman at the time of the alleged abuse.
The latest lawsuit, filed on Friday, centers around the case of a former football player referred to as John Doe #1. According to attorney Ben Crump and his co-counsel from the firm of Levin and Perconti, the player was sexually abused when he was a minor during a hazing incident. The lawsuit also alleges that the player was forced to continue playing despite suffering concussions and injuries. This particular case involves a player who was part of the team from 2015-2018.
In addition to this lawsuit, attorney Ben Crump and Levin and Perconti have filed another lawsuit on behalf of John Doe #2. Simultaneously, a separate lawsuit has been filed by Warren Miles Long, a former player who is using his real name in the case. Long was part of the Northwestern University football team from 2013-2018, while Doe #2 was on the team from 2015-2019.
Among the many allegations, Long’s lawsuit claims that he was so fearful of potential harm that he physically fought back to protect himself from players who were attempting to sexually harass him. The attorneys Crump, Levin, and Perconti have now accumulated a total of five lawsuits against the university, with three having named plaintiffs – Lloyd Yates, Simba Short, and Warren Miles Long.
It is important to note that there are three additional John Doe football hazing cases filed against Northwestern University by a different legal team consisting of Patrick Salvi II and Parker Stinar. This is in addition to a Jane Doe #1 lawsuit related to alleged abuse within the volleyball program. All these lawsuits have been filed in Cook County Circuit Court and are seeking financial compensation for the victims.
As the legal battles continue, it is essential for Northwestern University to thoroughly investigate and address the allegations brought forth by these former players. The university must prioritize the safety and well-being of its students and take swift and appropriate action to prevent further incidents of hazing or abuse. These lawsuits not only shed light on the alleged misconduct within the sports programs but also serve as an opportunity for Northwestern to examine its institutional culture and implement changes to ensure the protection of its students.
The lawsuits filed by both legal teams seek justice for the victims and hold Northwestern University accountable for any negligence or failure to protect its students. As the legal proceedings unfold, it is crucial to remember the gravity of these allegations and the immense impact they can have on the lives of those involved. It is imperative that universities create and enforce policies that prioritize the safety, well-being, and dignity of their students.
