More lawsuits filed against Northwestern, ACC Commissioner James Phillips in hazing investigation

CHICAGO (July 21, 2023) – Two additional former Northwestern University Football players have filed lawsuits against the University, ACC Commissioner James Phillips, former head football coach Patrick Fitzgerald, and other defendants affiliated with the University for hazing-related allegations in the athletic department. The athletes are represented by attorneys with the Illinois Law Firm of Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C. and co-counsel The Stinar Law Firm.

The complaints, filed on behalf of “John Doe 2” and “John Doe 3,” allege the defendants were negligent in failing to prevent hazing traditions, failing to intervene in hazing traditions, failing to protect students from acts that were assaultive, illegal, and often sexual in nature, among other allegations. On July 18, Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard filed the first lawsuit against Northwestern on behalf of a former football player, identified as John Doe 1. 

Patrick A. Salvi II of Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C., Parker Stinar of the Stinar Law Firm released the following statement:

These student athletes committed to Northwestern to play varsity sports at a Big 10 school. Athletes who worked their entire lives for that honor, and their families, were promised they would receive a world class education and have the opportunity to develop their skills in a safe environment. But when they arrived and were subjected to this abuse, it was not easy for them to “just speak up.” We have learned through our investigation thus far that those who have expressed concern were subjected to being benched, retaliated against and suppressed. Our clients are coming forward with their stories now because they want to see institutional change so future generations don’t have to suffer what they experienced. We are likely just scratching the surface as to how widespread this misconduct was throughout Northwestern’s athletic department. As more athletes come forward with their cases, we promise to honor any anonymity requested by claimants who contact our firm.

To speak with attorneys Patrick A. Salvi II of Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C. and/or Parker Stinar of the Stinar Law Firm, please contact Marcie Mangan at (312) 372-1227 or mmangan@salvilaw.com.

If you are a football player or other member of the Northwestern community who experienced sexual or physical abuse at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, or have any information, please contact Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard (312-372-1227 ; www.salvilaw.com ) to discuss your legal rights.

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