In a shocking turn of events, two former members of the University of Kentucky swim team have taken legal action against former coach Lars Jorgensen, the university, former coach Gary Conelly, and athletic director Mitch Barnhart. The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court in Lexington, Kentucky, alleges a disturbing pattern of misconduct within the university’s swim program.
The plaintiffs have accused Jorgensen of creating a “toxic, sexually hostile environment” where he allegedly preyed on, sexually harassed, and committed violent sexual assaults and rapes against young female coaches and collegiate athletes. These serious allegations have sent shockwaves through the university and the wider athletic community.
The lawsuit, which spans 93 pages, details disturbing incidents involving Jorgensen, including allegations of rape and sexual assault. It also implicates Barnhart and Conelly for allegedly failing to take action despite being aware of previous allegations against Jorgensen.
According to the complaint, multiple members of the UK swimming coaching staff and other athletic department administrators neglected to investigate allegations of misconduct against Jorgensen. Furthermore, the plaintiffs claim they were discouraged by the university’s Title IX office from filing formal complaints, creating a culture of fear and silence.
The lawsuit paints a grim picture of Jorgensen’s alleged actions, describing instances where he forcibly raped one of the plaintiffs multiple times and coerced another team member to perform sexual acts. The document also details a disturbing incident involving a 22-year-old recent graduate, identified as Jane Doe II, who was allegedly raped and sexually assaulted by Jorgensen.
In response to the lawsuit, Jorgensen has denied all the allegations against him. However, his resignation from the university in June 2023, following a suspension due to an NCAA violation, raises questions about his conduct and the handling of the situation by university officials.
The legal action has prompted a statement from UK spokesman Jay Blanton, who emphasized the university’s commitment to addressing concerns about employee conduct and ensuring the welfare of all members of the community. However, questions remain about the handling of the allegations and the responsibility of university officials in safeguarding the well-being of their students and employees.
As the lawsuit unfolds, the plaintiffs seek compensatory and punitive damages, as well as institutional reform to prevent similar incidents in the future. The case has also caught the attention of the U.S. Center for SafeSport, which is conducting an investigation into Jorgensen’s conduct.
The allegations against Jorgensen and the university have sent shockwaves through the athletic community, raising important questions about accountability, transparency, and the safety of young athletes. As the legal process unfolds, the true extent of the alleged misconduct will come to light, shedding light on a troubling chapter in the history of the University of Kentucky swim program..
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