AUSTIN, Texas — Former Baylor football coach Art Briles has sued three school regents and a vice president for libel and slander, accusing them of falsely stating he knew of reported assaults and alleged gang rapes by players and didn’t report them.
The lawsuit also asserts that Baylor officials conspired to damage his reputation and keep him from getting another coaching job. It also seeks damages for emotional distress and likely ending his career as a coach “on any level.”
“Some people think themselves above the law, but the laws of Texas establish accountability for everyone, even renegade, self-dealing regents of a Christian university,” Briles’ lawsuit states.
The lawsuit was filed in Llano County in central Texas. It names Baylor regents Chairman Ronald Murff, board members J. Cary Gray and David Harper, and Baylor Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Reagan Ramsower.
Baylor officials declined immediate comment Thursday night.
“I’d like to hear these regents and Mr. Ramsower tell their story under oath in broad daylight and open court,” Briles attorney Ernest Cannon said.
The lawsuit demands Baylor officials to turn over documents and provide sworn testimony. It also notes that former Baylor volleyball coach James sit for sworn interviews.
