Full Breakdown
Allegations of Sexual Abuse by Former N.C. State Trainer Expand to 31 Athletes
2/3/2026, 7:20:54 AM
Overview of the Lawsuit
A state lawsuit against Robert L. Murphy Jr., the former director of sports medicine at North Carolina State University, has expanded significantly, now involving 31 former male athletes. The allegations include sexual abuse disguised as treatment and harassment, with the latest filing adding 17 new plaintiffs to the case. This lawsuit follows an initial federal complaint filed by a single athlete in August 2022.
Details of the Allegations
The lawsuit, filed in Wake County Superior Court, details multiple instances of misconduct by Murphy, who served at N.C. State from 2012 to 2022. The allegations include improper touching during massages and intrusive observation during drug testing. Specifically, the new plaintiffs claim that Murphy instructed them to raise their shirts and lower their shorts or pants while he observed them closely, sometimes from within the same bathroom stall. One athlete reported feeling "uncomfortable and vulnerable," while another described a humiliating experience that left him unable to urinate even after consuming multiple drinks.
Additionally, several athletes allege that Murphy improperly touched their genitals during rehabilitation treatments. One athlete, who was receiving treatment for an Achilles tendon injury, recounted that Murphy's massage techniques escalated to inappropriate contact, prompting him to refuse further treatment.
Key Figures Involved
Benjamin Locke, a former men's soccer player, is one of the named plaintiffs and initially filed the complaint that sparked the lawsuit. Locke expressed encouragement at the bravery of the new plaintiffs coming forward, stating, "While it is never good news to hear there are other men that have been suffering in silence due to what they experienced, I am encouraged by the bravery, vulnerability, and willingness of these men to come forward against injustice."
Kerry Sutton, the attorney representing the plaintiffs, has indicated that more individuals may come forward with similar allegations. In contrast, Seth Blum, Murphy's attorney, has vehemently denied the accusations, asserting that there is "not one scrap of credible evidence" against Murphy.
Institutional Response and Oversight
The lawsuits also criticize N.C. State's athletic department for failing to act on complaints about Murphy's conduct, even when concerns were raised at senior levels. The plaintiffs describe themselves as "victims of sexual assaults, sexual exploitation, and sexual harassment," claiming that Murphy abused his position of trust.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the allegations have been detailed by the plaintiffs, Murphy's defense maintains that he has been falsely accused. There is currently no independent verification of the claims made in the lawsuits, and the legal proceedings are ongoing.
What's Next
As the case progresses, further developments are anticipated, including potential additional plaintiffs coming forward. The outcome of this lawsuit may have significant implications for N.C. State's athletic program and its policies regarding athlete welfare and oversight.
Verbatim Quotes
- “While it is never good news to hear there are other men that have been suffering in silence due to what they experienced, I am encouraged by the bravery, vulnerability, and willingness of these men to come forward against injustice,” — Benjamin Locke, Plaintiff
- “Put simply, Robert Murphy did not do this,” — Seth Blum, Attorney for Robert Murphy
