It was clear at the time that the charges regarding his college classes were bogus and easily fought.
I said at the time, “somebody has pictures”, because his unwillingness to fight against false charges was so out of character.
Clearly is was a Republican that blackmailed him, as there was no upside for going public against “our team”.
So, it was a different “they” than you suggest.
It is also clear now, that the affair was ongoing at that time.
They are meant to prevent the victim from accomplishing anything else.