Rep. Jim Jordan knew about OSU wrestling sexual abuse, victims allege

A new HBO documentary called Surviving Ohio State sheds light on the alleged cover-up of sexual assaults at Ohio State University by Dr. Richard Strauss. The documentary suggests that Rep. Jim Jordan, who was an assistant wrestling coach at the time, knew about the abuse but failed to act.

The film, produced by George Clooney, explores Strauss’s tenure at the university from 1978 to 1998. It includes accounts from individuals like Dan Ritchie, a former wrestler who recalls rumors of the doctor conducting inappropriate exams without gloves. Ritchie claims that Jordan addressed these rumors with athletes but did not take action.

Another witness, wrestling referee Frederick Feeney, recalls an incident where Strauss engaged in inappropriate behavior in the gym showers. Feeney informed Jordan and the university’s coach, Russ Hellickson, but alleges that their response was dismissive.

Despite Jordan’s denial of any knowledge of Strauss’s misconduct, the documentary presents compelling evidence from survivors and witnesses. The allegations against Strauss first emerged in 2018, and Ohio State settled with 296 survivors for over $60 million. However, some survivors feel that justice has not been fully served.

The documentary highlights the importance of survivors sharing their stories and seeking justice. It premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival and is now available for streaming on HBO Max. It’s a powerful reminder of the need to hold institutions accountable for enabling abuse and protecting survivors.