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Athletes abused by late doctor demand U-Michigan probe

They say a May report that detailed numerous complaints about Robert Anderson and the university’s failure to act was not enough.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Former athletes are urging the University of Michigan’s governing board to cooperate with a full investigation by Attorney General Dana Nessel of sexual abuse committed by a late doctor, and how the school failed to stop him during his decades on campus. 

They say a May report that detailed numerous complaints about Robert Anderson and the university’s failure to act was not enough.

Jon Vaughn, a football player from 1988 to 1991, says he was an Anderson victim. Vaughn says it's time to “speak up for justice.” 

"The time has passed for forced apologies that places blame on the past," said Vaughn. "There still exists a pattern of sexual misconduct, in which accountability is not reached, takes years to achieve or is excused away."

Another former student, Richard Goldman, who was not an athlete but a student broadcaster, said Schembechler sent him to Anderson for a referral for his headaches. At the appointment, Anderson touched him inappropriately. Goldman said he told Schembechler afterward, who told him to bring his concerns to the athletics director, who did not act. Three years later, a similar incident happened, and Goldman returned to the athletic director's office. 

"I slammed the door, and said to him, quote, what in the hell?" said Goldman. "It’s been two years. You’ve done nothing. He just tried to do this to me. The first time in three years he spoke to me, and said, go eff myself. Quote unquote."

The news conference was held a day before Michigan regents are to hold a regularly scheduled meeting. Attorney General Dana Nessel has said she would only investigate the university and Anderson if the school is willing and cooperative.

Watch the full news conference:

Former U-M football players, Anderson survivors demand action from school leaders

U-M Dr. Robert Anderson survivors hold press conference to demand action from university leaders.

Posted by 13 On Your Side on Wednesday, June 16, 2021

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