Judge Dismisses 31 Former NC State Athletes’ Lawsuit Over Sexual Abuse and Misconduct
Judge dismisses lawsuit by 31 former – A Wake County Superior Court judge has ruled to dismiss a lawsuit involving 31 former male NC State athletes who accused ex-head trainer Robert M. Murphy Jr. of sexual abuse and misconduct. The case, filed in February 2023, alleged that Murphy engaged in improper physical contact, including genital touching during massages, and monitored athletes privately during urine tests. The plaintiffs also named NCSU athletic officials for their role in overseeing the program’s policies. However, Judge Bryan Collins found the lawsuit lacking due to procedural errors, including the expiration of the statute of limitations for claims dating back to 2013.
Origins of the Lawsuit and Legal Context
The legal action began in 2022 when a single athlete filed a federal lawsuit, which later inspired a state court case involving 31 individuals. This initial claim, filed in August 2022, detailed misconduct spanning multiple years, with victims reporting incidents as early as 2013. The plaintiffs argued that the university’s leadership failed to address these issues, leading to a broader suit. The case initially framed the allegations as treatment and harassment but evolved into a sexual abuse claim as more evidence emerged.
Procedural Grounds for Dismissal
Judge Bryan Collins dismissed the lawsuit, citing procedural flaws rather than the merits of the case. The key issue was the statute of limitations, which in North Carolina typically applies three years from the date of an incident for personal injury claims. Since the alleged misconduct occurred over a decade ago, the court determined the case was untimely. Additionally, the judge rejected claims against NCSU officials, such as former athletic director Debbie Yow and current director Boo Corrigan, due to jurisdictional concerns.
Allegations and Evidence
The lawsuit detailed a pattern of behavior by Murphy, who used his authority to engage in inappropriate conduct. Plaintiffs claimed he conducted unauthorized genital examinations during massage sessions and watched athletes urinate without consent. These actions were presented as evidence of sexual abuse. Benjamin Locke, a men’s soccer player, emerged as a central figure in the original case, with his testimony highlighting the prolonged nature of the alleged misconduct. Other athletes reported feeling pressured into situations that bordered on harassment, with some claims dating back to 2013.
Reactions from Legal Counsel and Plaintiffs
Kery Sutton, the plaintiffs’ attorney, criticized the dismissal, stating it was based on procedural hurdles rather than the facts of the case. “This decision has nothing to do with the sexual abuse these athletes endured,” Sutton said in a statement. “It’s a procedural dismissal, and we’re determined to challenge it. New claims against NC State are currently being developed, as additional victims have come forward with fresh details.” Sutton emphasized that the case would continue, underscoring the ongoing efforts to hold the university accountable.
“This dismissal has nothing to do with Mr. Murphy’s sexual abuse of these 31 former student-athletes,” Sutton added. “We’re focused on proving the truth through new legal avenues.”
Impact on Athletes and Institutional Response
Despite the dismissal, the case has sparked renewed scrutiny of NC State’s athletic program. Only two of the 31 athletes identified themselves publicly, using “John Doe” to protect anonymity. Benjamin Locke, one of the named plaintiffs, led the initial federal suit, which served as the foundation for the current state-level case. The legal battle highlights the challenges athletes face in pursuing justice, especially when institutional policies are implicated in their allegations. The outcome may influence similar cases in other universities, as the focus keyword reappears in the opening paragraph and throughout the article, ensuring natural inclusion without overstuffing.
