The staggering amount comes from multiple settlements: an $ 852 million settlement announced by the university Thursday, an earlier federal settlement totaling $ 215 million, as well as “other settlements,” said USC.
USC described the settlement, which related to civil claims of 710 women, as “fair and reasonable.” It has been endorsed by the university’s Board of Trustees.
Lawyers for the victims said it is “the largest sexual abuse settlement against any university and the largest personal injury settlement against any university in history.”
Tyndall is facing 29 criminal charges, including 18 charges of sexual assault and 11 of sexual battery, which are more than 20 years old. He pleaded not guilty to the crimes and is awaiting trial.
USC President Carol Folt said in a statement, “I am very sorry for the pain experienced by these esteemed members of the USC community. We appreciate the courage of everyone who came forward and hope this much needed resolution provides some relief. to the women being abused by George Tyndall. “
Rick J. Caruso, president of the USC’s Board of Trustees, acknowledged, “Our institution falls short by not doing everything we can to protect those who are most important to us – our students.”
CNN has contacted representatives for George Tyndall for comment.