COLUMBUS, Ohio (Legal Newsline) - Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray has sent letters to approximately 90 registered sports agents and agencies in Ohio, warning them that his office will not stand for any misconduct that could jeopardize collegiate athletes or programs.
Under Chapter 4771 of the Ohio Revised Code, which authorizes the attorney general to recover damages on behalf of colleges and universities that have been harmed by agent misconduct, Cordray says he has the power to punish any agents. Criminal prosecutions may also be authorized.
"I am troubled by the way students and schools are at times being forced to pay the price for sleazy behavior by agents," Cordray said.
"If misconduct by athletic programs or college athletes is proven, they should be punished -- no question about it. But if the system fails to hold accountable the sports agent who stands to profit -- sometimes enormously -- by manipulative actions toward others, that is clearly wrong."
Cordray is the legal representative of all state colleges and universities in Ohio, including 12 NCAA member institutions.
Cordray's letter was also delivered to the Ohio Athletic Commission and to all athletic directors at Ohio NCAA member institutions.
Public Ohio universities that are NCAA members include the University of Akron, University of Cincinnati, University of Toledo, The Ohio State University, Bowling Green State University, Cleveland State University, Central State University, Kent State University, Miami University, Ohio University, Wright State University and Youngstown State University.
"I am aware that some of my clients are concerned about recent developments in this area, and I am prepared to take all actions necessary to protect the interests of Ohio's institutions of higher education," Cordray said.