Penn State’s President said he’s appalled at what he calls a “rush to judgment” over allegations involving the late Joe Paterno and alleged victims of Jerry Sandusky.
An insurance document filed in a Philadelphia court last week state that a child allegedly told Joe Paterno about sexual abuse by Sandusky in 1976.
Dr. Eric Barron said the university cannot find any evidence, related to a settlement or otherwise, that an alleged early assault was communicated to Coach Paterno and said that raises credibility issues.
He said the university has worked to reanalyze the record and depositions to ensure that their reactions and comments are “responsible and trustworthy.”
Barron said in part, “I want you to know I am appalled by the rumor, innuendo and rush to judgment that have accompanied the media stories surrounding these allegations. All too often in our society, people are convicted in the court of public opinion, only to find a different outcome when all the facts are presented.”
The Penn State Alumni Association recently started a petition to celebrate the 50th anniversary of when Joe Paterno became head coach of the football team.
To see Barron’s full letter to the community, click here.
