Ex-N.C. State sports trainer accused of sexually abusing male athletes is arrested in Florida
CBS News • • sports
Key Points:
- Robert M. Murphy Jr., former N.C. State director of sports medicine, was arrested in Florida on charges including nine felonies of sexual contact under the pretext of medical treatment and 23 counts of sexual battery, related to allegations from 14 former male athletes.
- The criminal charges stem from a multiyear investigation following civil lawsuits filed by more than 30 former Wolfpack athletes who accused Murphy of sexual abuse during treatment from 2013 to 2021.
- The indictments allege that university officials, including former athletic director Debbie Yow, were aware of concerns about Murphy but failed to investigate or prevent his access to athletes.
- Murphy’s attorneys deny the allegations, citing a previous 2022 campus police investigation that found insufficient evidence for charges, and assert Murphy will be cleared when facts are revealed.
- The civil lawsuits have faced procedural hurdles, including a June dismissal based on statute of limitations and jurisdictional issues, but appeals are ongoing as more athletes continue to come forward with similar claims.
