A group of Tennessean women alleged the University of Tennessee has violated Title IX regulations and has created a hostile sexual environment for females. One of those cited with the complaint is football hall of Famer Peyton Manning.
In 1996, back when Manning was still a volunteer quarterback, he allegedly placed his genitals on the face of a female athletic trainer while doing an examination on him on an injury. The athletic trainer was Dr. Jamie Naughright. She later sued Manning but the case was settled in 1997 and she agreed to leave the university.
According to the case that was filed in Nashville, the policy that Tennessee created has made students vulnerable to sexual assault and almost did nothing with all the incidents which add to other incidents that make them vulnerable to additional assaults. The case also claimed that the university interfered with the disciplinary process which favors male athletes.
The case was represented by attorney David Randolph Smith for the six unidentified complainants against the University of Tennessee and the director of the student conduct and community standards. It also states why Tim Rogers, former vice chancellor for student life resigned in 2013. The suit claimed that Roger is in protest against the violation of Title IX and the administration of UT against the clear present dangers of sexual assaults happening leading to his resignation.
But the universities lawyer, Bill Ramsey stated that the school did its part during this incidents. He added that the administration devoted a lot of time and energy to ensure that students will have a safe environment.
Over the last 4 years, a number of sexual assault have been filed against Tennessee student-athletes. A few famous athletes that were included in the case were A.J. Johnson and Michael Williams. The two were sued for aggravated rape charges and have been tried separately.
The filing of this case happened only two days after Manning won his second NFL title as a member of the Denver Broncos. The Broncos defeated the Carolina Panthers at Santa Clara, Carolina during the Super Bowl 50.
