The much-anticipated trial of Scott Shaw, former San Jose State University head athletic trainer, accused of sexually assaulting female athletes for over a decade, ended in a mistrial on August 3, 2023, leaving the survivors seeking justice and battling institutional failures in prolonged turmoil according to The Mercury News. The majority of jurors believed Shaw was guilty, but the jury deadlocked after four days of deliberations and an emotional showdown during which one holdout juror accused others of bullying.

In Shaw's case, eight former female athletes testified on how they felt violated and traumatized during his treatments, detailing shocking allegations across multiple sports teams at the university as reported by USA Today. The trial highlighted how the university failed to promptly address multiple complaints that emerged as early as 2009. Years of allegations and concerns led to the scandal breaking in 2020, causing the resignation of the university president and athletic director, and triggering a federal investigation according to Hoodline.

Despite the trial ending in a mistrial, the survivors remain committed to seeking justice and uncovering the truth about the abuse that took place at San Jose State. Shaw's case bears resemblance to Larry Nassar, another sports medicine doctor who is now serving a life sentence for sexually assaulting numerous athletes. Both cases reveal a cultural issue that often discredits or ignores women who come forward with allegations of sexual misconduct.

While the legal battle continues, San Jose State University has recognized its failures in handling this case, and with new leadership, it is expected to improve its systems to create safer environments for students. San Jose State's President, Cynthia Teniente-Matson, expressed her hope that "the legal process and eventual outcome will bring some measure of healing to those who were harmed" via Hoodline. Although the trial has come to an inconclusive end, the fight for justice and accountability continues, as more survivors remain ready to testify in future trials.