Scott Shaw, who worked at the university from 2006 to 2020, pleaded guilty to sexual assault in court this week, bringing closure to a long-standing case that has haunted the institution.
After more than a decade of allegations, Scott Shaw, a former athletic trainer at San Jose State University, has finally been held accountable for his actions
The controversy surrounding Scott Shaw first emerged in 2009 when swimmer Caitlin Macky came forward with complaints against him. A staggering sixteen others joined her in reporting his misconduct to the school that same year. Shockingly, the university cleared Scott Shaw of any wrongdoing at the time, leaving the victims disheartened and labeled as dishonest.
The trial, held recently, witnessed Scott Shaw’s abrupt admission of guilt, a stark contrast to his years of vehement denial. “It does feel better that it’s out there and it’s public record,” shared Macky, who testified against Scott Shaw. Former gymnast Amy LeClair echoed the sentiment, expressing relief that the truth had come to light.
Scott Shaw’s tenure at the university was marked by accusations of inappropriate touching, affecting around thirty women in various sports
The trial revealed that he had touched and rubbed their breasts, buttocks, and groins under the guise of legitimate treatments. The university awarded the victims a collective sum of $7 million as a gesture of recognition for their suffering.
An independent law firm’s investigation in 2019 concluded that Scott Shaw had violated the school’s sexual harassment policy and that the university had also failed to adequately address the initial complaints, thereby breaching Title IX regulations.
The university, in a statement, acknowledged the victims’ resilience and patience, expressing hope that they find vindication in this outcome. Scott Shaw’s sentencing is scheduled for November 14, where impact statements from the victims will be presented. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding against sexual misconduct within the campus community.
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