Joe Paterno is nothing short of a legend on the football field. He has devoted just short of five decades to the sport, leading Penn State to over 400 victories - including two national titles and five teams that were able to claim themselves as undefeated. He did it in record time too - the first coach to ever lead a team to over 300 victories on the field.
Now, however, Joe Paterno is finding himself in a different fight. On Tuesday, November 8, Paterno found himself fired from his position over allegations of sexual molestation. These allegations were not, however, pointed at him; rather, they were aimed at his assistant coach, Jerry Sandusky. The allegations claims the Sandusky had molested over eight boys in a span of fifteen years. In 2002, allegedly Paterno's graduate assistant, Mike McQuary, witnessed Sandusky molesting a 10-year-old boy.
McQueary reported the incident to Paterno who is now being accused of not doing enough about it. That, however, is not to say that he did nothing regarding the situation. In fact, it is argued that Paterno reported the incident to school authorities - informing the athletic director and the Vice President of the school. Now, accusations are being shot around that the school covered up the event - not taking the proper initiative in getting the local authorities involved as Penn State is legally required to do.
Sexual abuse is, unfortunately, much more prevalent than one would like. It can occur in any circumstances and can be carried out by people that you would never suspect. If you or a loved one have recently been the victim of sexual abuse, you do not have to suffer in silence. By getting a sexual abuse lawyer on your side, you will be able to take the necessary steps towards protecting your legal rights and getting your feet underneath you once more. Contact the Zalkin Law Firm today if you would like to learn more about what can be done.
