The law firm of Massillamany & Jeter LLP has been retained by the families of two female Purdue University students who claim to have been sexually assaulted by four Purdue football players on October 13, 2016. The alleged assaults occurred at an off-campus house where the players lived. The victims immediately reported the incident to school authorities and to the West Lafayette Police Department. The players have also been accused of contributing alcohol to minors and maintaining a common nuisance. At least one other student has come forward, claiming to have been a victim of similar actions by Purdue football players in the past.
Firm partner Mario Massillamany has called on Purdue administrators to expedite expulsion proceedings against the players involved. “School officials must move quickly to hold these players accountable for their actions and show these victims that their voices are being heard,” Massillamany said. “Purdue and other schools have an obligation to send a message that this type of activity will not be tolerated,” he added. Massillamany encouraged other victims to come forward. “If there are others out there who have been victimized in this manner, we encourage them to contact us to get the justice they deserve.”
Some of the accused players have criminal records, including one having been charged with battery resulting in serious bodily injury. A second player was previously charged with theft, and a third with possession of marijuana; both had their charges dismissed as part of a pre-trial diversion program. Pending a formal hearing, the University has suspended the players from the football team but they are allowed on campus to attend classes.