Indiana – Two former Indiana University basketball players have filed a lawsuit against the university, claiming that the team doctor repeatedly sexually assaulted them and their teammates while the school failed to intervene.
Sexual Assault Allegations Against Dr. Bradford Bomba Sr.
Haris Mujezinovic and Charlie Miller, who played for the Hoosiers in the 1990s under coach Bob Knight, filed the lawsuit on Tuesday in U.S. District Court for Southern Indiana. They allege that Dr. Bradford Bomba Sr. subjected basketball players to unnecessary prostate examinations, with coaches and trainers aware of the misconduct.
The lawsuit states that “Dr. Bomba, Sr.’s routine sexual assaults were openly discussed by the Hoosier men’s basketball players in the locker room in the presence of IU employees, including assistant coaches, athletic trainers, and other Hoosier men’s basketball staff”.
Scope of Allegations Against IU Sports Doctor
Bomba, a former Indiana University football player, was nicknamed “Frankenstein” by coaches and players due to his large hands and fingers. The plaintiffs’ attorney, Kathleen Delaney, suggests there could be “at least one hundred” alleged victims.
Victims Speak Out Encouraging Others To Come Forward
Mujezinovic, who played for Indiana from 1995 to 1997, stated, “I’m standing up for all student-athletes who have suffered abuse. I hope that more of our former teammates will speak out and share their stories publicly”.
Miller, a Hoosier from 1994 to 1998, added, “I will never understand why IU leadership did nothing to protect us from what I now understand was sexual abuse”.
Legal Recourse for Athletes: Sexual Abuse Attorney Discusses Options for Sexual Abuse Victims
The recent lawsuit filed by former Indiana University basketball players has brought attention to the serious issue of sexual abuse in collegiate sports. As more victims come forward, questions arise about the legal options available to those who have suffered such abuse. To provide clarity on this complex topic, we spoke with Jeff Gibson, an experienced attorney specializing in doctor sexual abuse cases. In this interview, Gibson offers valuable information for victims, explaining their rights, the potential for holding institutions accountable, and the challenges they may face in seeking justice. His insights provide a roadmap for those considering legal action and highlight the importance of speaking out against abuse in sports.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: What legal rights do athletes have when they’ve been sexually abused by team doctors?
Jeff Gibson, Esq.: Athletes who have endured sexual abuse by team physicians have several legal avenues. They can file civil lawsuits against the abuser and potentially the institution that employed them. These cases often involve claims of assault, battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. Additionally, if the institution knew or should have known about the abuse and failed to act, they may be held liable for negligence.
Banville: When can victims hold negligent parties accountable in these cases?
Gibson: Victims can hold negligent parties accountable when there’s evidence that the institution or other responsible parties failed to properly supervise the doctor, ignored complaints, or created an environment that allowed abuse to occur. The statute of limitations is a critical factor. In Indiana, adult victims of childhood sexual abuse now have longer to file civil claims. However, there are ongoing efforts to extend this timeframe further.
Banville: What challenges do victims face in pursuing these cases?
Gibson: One major challenge is overcoming the emotional trauma to come forward. Legally, gathering evidence from events that may have occurred years ago can be difficult. Institutions often have significant resources to defend themselves, which can be intimidating for victims. However, recent high-profile cases have shown that justice is possible, even after many years.
Empowering Survivors of Sports Abuse: Your Path to Justice Starts Here
If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse by a team doctor or medical professional in a sports setting, remember that you are not alone. The law is on your side, and there are experienced attorneys ready to fight for your rights. Don’t let fear or uncertainty hold you back from seeking the justice and compensation you deserve. Our team of dedicated legal professionals is here to guide you through every step of the process, offering compassionate support and aggressive representation. Take the first step towards healing and accountability today. Contact us for a free, confidential consultation to explore your legal options and start your journey towards reclaiming your power. Your voice matters, and we’re here to make sure it’s heard.
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Mr. Banville is a personal injury attorney who has experience in handling auto accidents, work injuries, medical malpractice, dog bites, slip and falls, and representing survivors and victims of sexual abuse. Mr. Banville is affiliated with law firms in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, D.C., and Maryland. Abuse Guardian
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