A former member of the Ohio State University (OSU) wrestling team told the Ohio House Civil Justice Committee on Tuesday that Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH) called and begged him to assist in covering up the sex abuse scandal that occurred while Jordan as at the university as a wrestling coach.

The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports that former OSU wrestler Adam DiSabato told the House committee that several coaches on the team — including Jordan — were fully aware that former Ohio State team doctor Richard Strauss was sexually abusing wrestlers but did absolutely nothing to stop or report the abuse:

“(DiSabato) also said Jordan called him repeatedly in July 2018, after media outlets quoted his brother, Michael DiSabato, saying Strauss’ abuse was common knowledge to those surrounding the wrestling program, including Jordan.

“’Jim Jordan called me crying, groveling… begging me to go against my brother…That’s the kind of cover-up that’s going on there,’ he said.”

The Civil Justice Committee is debating legislation that would provide a way for victims of abuse at Ohio State to sue the university for damages. DiSabato appeared to encourage lawmakers to pass the bill so abuse victims can be compensated for their pain and suffering, telling the panel:

“Are you guys going to do what you’re voted to do? That’s the only reason I’m here.”

Rep. Jordan has steadfastly denied that he knew sexual abuse was taking place on the wrestling team, and a spokesperson for the congressman released a statement Tuesday after DiSabato’s testimony, saying the former wrestler was telling “another lie,” adding:

“Congressman Jordan never saw or heard of any abuse, and if he had he would have dealt with it.”

DiSabato fired back at Jordan, calling a “liar”:

“He’s throwing us under the bus, all of us. He’s a coward.”

Just last week, Jordan was promoted to be the ranking Republican on the House Judiciary Committee, replacing Rep. Doug Collins (R-GA), who is running for the Senate.

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