San Jose State University (SJSU) director of sports medicine, Scott Shaw, pleads guilty to the unlawful sexual touching of female student-athletes, casting a chilling light on the behind-the-scenes turmoil unfolding within some college athletic departments according to the United States Department of Justice. The shocking story exposes hidden power dynamics and institutional failures, proving that athletics, education, and exploitation can become entwined in a sinister web.

Scott Shaw admitted to violating the civil rights of four women student-athletes from the soccer and water polo teams at San Jose State University between 2017 and 2020, touching their breasts and buttocks without consent while hiding his actions under the guise of medical treatment. Despite the trial ending in a mistrial on August 3, 2023, the survivors remained deeply committed to seeking justice and uncovering the truth about the abuse that took place at the university.

The trial attracted widespread attention, with eight former female athletes testifying on how they felt violated and traumatized by Shaw's treatments as Hoodline stated. The upsetting allegations spanned multiple sports teams, and the trial underscored the university's failure to promptly address numerous complaints that emerged as early as 2009. For years, the scandal festered, and it was not until 2020 that turmoil finally erupted, leading to the resignation of the university president and the athletic director, as well as the triggering of a federal investigation.

In light of these disturbing revelations, San Jose State University admitted to its shortcomings in handling the case. With new leadership at the helm, the institution is expected to make impactful changes to ensure a safer environment for its students moving forward. SJSU'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.

Scott Shaw, however did plead guilty after the mistrial in the Northern District of California. He faces a maximum penalty of one year in prison for each count and up to a $100,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for November 14. The FBI San Francisco Field Office investigated the case.