LSU Settles Sexual Assault Lawsuit With Former Students

The LSU football team takes to the field against Florida for an NCAA college football game, Oct. 16, 2021, Baton Rouge, La. LSU and 10 former students who sued the school over alleged mishandli

LSU and 10 former students have reached a settlement in a case involving alleged mishandling of sexual assault and domestic violence complaints against football players and others at the university. The case, which was filed in 2021, was dismissed by US District Judge Wendy Vitter after the parties agreed to resolve the dispute amicably. The terms of the settlement have not been disclosed.

The civil case included allegations against former star running back Derrius Guice and former LSU women's tennis player Jade Lewis. Guice was accused of sexual misconduct by four plaintiffs, while Lewis claimed that LSU failed to respond adequately to reports of domestic violence in her relationship with former Tigers receiver Drake Davis.

The lawsuit was centered on federal Title IX laws, which prohibit gender-based discrimination, harassment, or violence. The allegations, dating back about a decade, led to repercussions for former university leaders, including former LSU football coach Les Miles and ex-university President F. King Alexander.

Case dismissed after parties agreed to resolve dispute amicably.

Settlement reached between LSU and 10 former students in sexual assault case.

Allegations involved former star running back Derrius Guice and ex-LSU women's tennis player Jade Lewis.

Miles lost his job at Kansas in 2021, while Alexander was fired from his position at Oregon State. The Husch Blackwell law firm was hired by LSU to review the handling of sexual misconduct complaints, with findings indicating deficiencies in Title IX compliance and support for victims.

The review also highlighted issues campus-wide, including complaints against fraternity members. Specific attention was given to football players, with allegations against nine players who competed under former coach Ed Orgeron. Orgeron, who succeeded Miles in 2016, led LSU to a national championship in the 2019 season.

The review recommended that coaches refer sexual misconduct complaints to Title IX compliance officials, as they may lack the expertise to handle such cases effectively. Current LSU employees, including deputy athletic director Verge Ausberry and senior associate athletic director Miriam Segar, received suspensions for mishandling sexual misconduct complaints.

Overall, the settlement marks a significant development in addressing the handling of sexual assault and domestic violence complaints at LSU, shedding light on the importance of Title IX compliance and support for victims.

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