Lawyers representing former Ohio State University students have petitioned a federal judge to assist in serving a subpoena to billionaire Leslie Wexner, who they allege could possess relevant information regarding a lawsuit that accuses the university of failing to protect students from sexual abuse. Wexner, the founder of L Brands—which includes well-known brands like Victoria’s Secret—was a member of the OSU board of trustees during the time when Dr. Richard Strauss was targeting students. Strauss, who died in 2005, has faced numerous accusations of sexual misconduct by former student-athletes.
The plaintiffs’ attorneys reported in a motion filed in the Southern District of Ohio that their efforts to deliver the subpoena to Wexner have been unsuccessful since September. They noted that Wexner’s security has hindered multiple attempts to serve him, including at an OSU board meeting where it was revealed he no longer attends.
While Wexner is not accused of any wrongdoing in the case, his attorney has claimed that Wexner does not possess any information pertinent to the lawsuit. Nevertheless, the plaintiffs believe Wexner may have significant insights, particularly relating to Strauss’s actions and his implications during Strauss’s disciplinary hearings in the late 1990s. The plaintiffs’ motion highlights that Wexner’s history as a benefactor of OSU adds weight to their request for his deposition, as his connections to university operations during critical times could provide valuable information about the university’s response to Strauss’s alleged misconduct.
The plaintiffs have sought permission from Judge Michael H. Watson to explore alternative methods for serving the subpoena, suggesting that they might leave the documents with Wexner’s security or send them via mail or email to his lawyer. The urgency for this request arises from their belief that Wexner is aware of their attempts and has thus far ignored them.
As the lawsuit continues, it underscores the ongoing battle that OSU faces since the revelations of Strauss’s abuse first came to the public’s attention in 2018. Former wrestler Mike DiSabato’s whistleblowing triggered a series of investigations that led to allegations of widespread knowledge among university officials regarding Strauss’s actions, which spanned nearly two decades. An independent investigation subsequently confirmed that 177 male athletes and students were victimized by Strauss, while OSU has reportedly allocated $60 million in settlements to nearly 300 victims.
Despite these efforts for accountability, the university still grapples with numerous active lawsuits from more than 200 men alleging abuse, and the plaintiffs in this case are hopeful that gaining testimony from figures like Wexner could provide further clarity on the university’s alleged negligence during a tumultuous period in its history. While the legal journey remains complex, it also represents a significant effort towards justice for the victims and promoting a culture of safety and accountability in educational institutions.