Butler University Athlete Abuse Lawsuit

Four Female Student-Athletes vs. Butler University, Former AT Michael Howell, and AD Ralph Reiff

Reviewed by

Bailor Bell

Practice Areas: Sexual Assault & Abuse

Case Details

Who: The plaintiffs are four women’s soccer players at Butler University. The lawsuit names former assistant athletic trainer Michael Howell and senior associate athletic director Reiff, who was responsible for overseeing Howell.

What Happened: According to the lawsuit, the plaintiffs were sexually assaulted and illicitly photographed by the athletic trainer under the guise of providing treatment for sports-related injuries. A Title IX investigation later determined that the university lacked adequate protocols to protect female athletes from such misconduct. The investigation also revealed that the head trainer had previously worked closely with Larry Nassar, whose abuse of athletes under the pretense of medical treatment was widely known.

Results

Following the investigation, the trainer was terminated by the university. The plaintiffs subsequently filed suit alleging institutional failures that allowed the misconduct to occur. The case remains pending and is proceeding toward trial.

Impact

The case has raised significant concerns about athlete safety, institutional oversight, and the adequacy of protections for female athletes. It underscores the consequences of inadequate safeguards within athletic programs and the ongoing need for accountability and reform to prevent similar abuse.