[ExNewsExSpook]

The “problem” is that the “second-hand” information came from a graduate assistant—a member of his own coaching staff, who witnessed the molestation in person. Beyond that, Coach Paterno made matters worse by reporting it to university officials (namely the athletic director) who were already aware of Gerry Sandusky’s criminal behavior and chose to cover it up, lest the “brand” of Nittany Lion football be tarnished, along with JoePa’s reputation.

When Mike McQueary saw Sandusky raping that boy in the shower, he reported it to Paterno. At that point, he had a choice: continue the cover-up, or call the police and let the chips fall where they may. He chose the former, and Sandusky’s crimes continued for almost another decade.

Coach Paterno should be remembered for all that he accomplished. Beyond the record for wins, he helped a number of young men earn their college degrees and enjoy success that might otherwise have been beyond their reach. But Paterno’s legacy will also be forever shaped by his actions on the day in 2002 when he had a chance to end Sandusky’s crime spree once and for all, and elected to remain a part of the cover-up.

It’s tough to judge a man by his decision in one episode of an otherwise stellar career, but Coach Paterno’s inaction led to the rape of other boys (at the hands of his former assistant), and the destruction of countless lives. Sadly, that too will be a lasting part of his legacy.

[NEPA]

Paterno follwed the law in '02. The police could not have acted on second hand info. That's why PA law is set up the way it is. By reporting to the AD instead of police something could be done. Going to the police in '02 would have been even less effective because the police could not have acted on info from Paterno. It had to either come from McQueary who had first hand info or the proper authorities at Penn State. Like it or not, that's the law in PA.

Paterno is a convenient target but Sandusky is the accused perv. I think the fact that the police and DA did nothing in the '98 accusation may have played a role in '02.

[combat_boots]

I said RIP last night.

But I remember some years ago that rumors swirled about Paterno retiring or some such. Someone(s) wanted him gone.

I hold him responsible for letting Sandusky have keys to the State Penn locker rooms, showers and facilities. Generations of boys are now FUBARed men.

Now, the wealthy homosexual donors, the former PSU gay- friendly President and his connections, the wealthy gay alumni and politicians can rest a little easier. And Sandusky may skate as a result.

For all the glory and reputation, State Penn is now tarred with a shame that will take a long time to overcome. I would never send or pay for a child or grandchild of mine to go there. Who knows who’s left of like mind as Sandusky?

[teenyelliott]

Good post, but I cannot imagine how people can talk about how great Paterno is. There are 57 counts against Sandusky. You cannot have a child rapist around that long and not know something is wrong.

I truly feel that Paterno and everyone else involved chose football, money and legacy over the well being of children.

[dead]

Well said. JoePa intentionally "knew nothing" about Sandusky. He never once showed a bit of concern for the boys being raped - boys that were paraded right in front of Paterno by Sandusky at numerous events!

Sandusky sat on the dais of Penn State football events with 14 year old boy dates, then brought them back to his room afterwards. And JoePa "knew nothing."

Bless his soul. He'll need it.

[hoosierham]

Mike McCreary SHOULD have reported the shower rape to the police.To heck with asking his boss first.He witnessed a heinous crime and didn’t try to stop it. The worship of atlhletics is just so wrong.