By Trend News Line 2024-04-14 00:27:12.
Former Kentucky Swimmers File Lawsuit Alleging Sexual Assault
Two former members of the Kentucky swim team have filed a lawsuit against the university, former coach Lars Jorgensen, and athletic director Mitch Barnhart, accusing them of sexual assault, including rape. The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court, claims that the school ignored multiple reports of inappropriate sexual relationships within the swim program.
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Allegations of Sexual Assault and Rape
The lawsuit, brought by former swimmer and assistant coach Briggs Alexander and a woman identified as Jane Doe, alleges that Jorgensen created a toxic and sexually hostile environment within the program. Alexander claims that Jorgensen groomed and sexually assaulted him, while Jane Doe was also a victim of sexual harassment and assault. The lawsuit further states that another assistant coach, identified as Jane Doe II, was repeatedly assaulted by Jorgensen.
Failure to Address Allegations
The lawsuit also implicates former head coach Gary Conelly and athletic director Mitch Barnhart for failing to address previous allegations against Jorgensen. It alleges that Conelly did not follow up on reports of misconduct at Jorgensen’s previous coaching position at Toledo. Barnhart is accused of hiring Jorgensen without investigating the allegations and intentionally concealing them.
Denial and Response
Jorgensen has denied the allegations, stating that they are untrue. Conelly did not respond to requests for comment. A statement from Kentucky spokesman Jay Blanton confirmed that Jorgensen is no longer employed by the university and that they take sexual assault allegations seriously but do not discuss specific personnel issues.
Past Allegations and Cover-Up
The lawsuit also reveals that the athletic department received reports from a former University of Toledo coach warning of Jorgensen’s predatory behaviour. Despite this, Kentucky chose to hire Jorgensen and allegedly concealed the allegations. The university faced numerous accusations during Jorgensen’s tenure as head coach that were not properly documented or pursued.
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Resignation and Settlement
Jorgensen resigned from his position at Kentucky last June after being suspended for a NCAA violation. The university and Jorgensen reached a $75,000 settlement, but the agreement did not admit fault or liability on either side. SafeSport, an organization that investigates sexual abuse, added Jorgensen to a disciplinary database in November.
University Response
Kentucky stated that they take concerns raised by employees seriously and review them before making hiring decisions. They have policies in place to address allegations of harassment or misconduct, ensuring the well-being of their employees and students. Victims or complainants are given the opportunity to participate in investigations of this nature.
The lawsuit sheds light on the serious issue of sexual assault within collegiate sports programs and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions. Kentucky’s response to the allegations will be closely monitored as the legal proceedings unfold..
Former Kentucky swimmers sue ex-coaches, AD Mitch Barnhart, alleging ‘sexually hostile environment’
Kentucky swimmers sue ex-coaches, AD Mitch Barnhart, alleging ‘sexually hostile environment’.
