Were you or a loved one abused by hockey coach Thomas "Chico" Adrahtas, hockey coach at Robert Morris University, or sexually abused in a similar situation? You may be eligible to pursue a civil lawsuit, our experienced USOC sexual abuse lawyers are here to help guide you through the process. Learn more: https://abuseguardian.com/olympic-committee-sexual-abuse-lawsuit/
An investigative article form The Atlantic and an investigation by SafeSport, a part of the USOC, has uncovered 30 years of sexual abuse by a prominent hockey coach.
A letter was sent from the victim to Robert Morris University and the American College Hockey Association, claiming that Adrahtas used flattery, gifts, and career development promises to gain trust. After developing a friendship, Adrahtas would tie the victim up and blindfolded while sexually abusing him.
This letter was not the first time that Robert Morris University had been told about alleged sexual misconduct by Adrahtas. This was also not the first time a prominent hockey association had been told about the potential threat he posed to players Adrahtas coached. For over 30 years, Adrahtas moved between programs around Chicago, including a brief year (1984-84) at the Minnesota Gophers where it was alleged that multiple players became victims of his abuse, and knowledge of this circulated within the hockey community for decades.
Adrahtas' resignation came after he was faced with an investigation by SafeSport, a clearinghouse investigating sexual abuse and misconduct within the USOC's national governing bodies.
According to USA Hockey, Adrahtas is "ineligible for membership or participation in any USA Hockey program, as well as any organization governed by the USOPC or other national governing bodies."
The Atheltic's investigation spanned 3 months and over 100 interviews. This investigation has found manipulation and sexual abuse by Adrahtas, exploiting the trust of players to take advantage of them sexually. It was found that once allegations surfaced, Adrahtas would relocate to another team, befriend players, and then sexually abuse them in a similar way.
During the timeframe in which Adrahtas is alleged to have committed these sexual assaults, he worked at youth hockey programs including:
Adrahtas also served as coach across different college programs including:
If you've been the victim of sexual assault on campus, in athletics programs, or elsewhere at university, you deserve to be heard. It is normal to struggle with what to do next, the abuse can cause powerful emotions and shame. The abuse was not your fault and you did not deserve what happened.
By speaking with an experienced USOC sexual abuse lawyer, you can be helping other victims like you, and helping protect potential future victims from having the same experiences.
Call today to speak with our team of sexual abuse victims lawyers for your free, confidential, consultation.
Read More: Ohio State University Olympic Programs Accused Of Ignoring Sexual Abuse