Victim testified Penn State coach Paterno knew about, ignored Sandusky sex abuse

STATE COLLEGE, Pa., July 12 (UPI) -- Court documents unsealed Tuesday in Philadelphia reveal an unidentified man in 2014 testified that late Penn State football coach Joe Paterno ignored his complaints about sexual abuse committed by Jerry Sandusky.

The man, identified as John Doe 150 in documents, said Sandusky sexually assaulted him while he showered during a 1976 football camp at Penn State University when he was 14 years old.

When he reacted to the assault, the man testified Sandusky said "Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't realize I was getting that close."

The man said he told Paterno of the incident but the legendary coach dismissed the claim.

"Is it accurate that Coach Paterno quickly said to you, 'I don't want to hear about any of that kind of stuff, I have a football season to worry about?'" the man's lawyer asked him during the 2014 deposition.

"Specifically. Yes," the man replied. "I was shocked, disappointed, offended. I was insulted ... I said, 'is that all you're going to do? You're not going to do anything else?'"

Paterno simply walked away, the man testified. The man is one of 32 victims who received part of a $93 million payout to those who said they were assaulted by former Penn State defensive coordinator Sandusky.

One of the most successful college football coaches in U.S. history, Paterno's legacy was marred by the Sandusky sexual abuse scandal. Many believed Paterno helped cover up Sandusky's sexual abuses, but others believe Paterno was unjustly fired from his coaching position and his legacy was maliciously tainted.

The Paterno family on Tuesday denied allegations the coach covered up any of Sandusky's actions.

"The overwhelming evidence confirms that Joe Paterno never engaged in a coverup of Jerry Sandusky's crimes," the family said through a representative. "Multiple independent parties have confirmed this conclusion. In fact, consistent with university rules, Joe reported an allegation about Sandusky to administration officials."

Paterno died in January 2012, two months after being fired from Penn State.

Penn State said that while a settlement was reached with victims, there is still no conclusive evidence Paterno knew of the sexual abuse scandal committed by his former employee.

"Penn State's overriding concern has been, and remains, for the victims of Jerry Sandusky," Penn State President Eric Barron said in a statement. "Although settlements have been reached, it also is important to reiterate that the alleged knowledge of former Penn State employees is not proven, and should not be treated as such. Some individuals deny the claims, and others are unable to defend themselves."