Victim in Sandusky Case May Recant Testimony

One of the ten accusers of Jerry Sandusky, known publicly as Victim 10, is reportedly preparing to retract his testimony according to recent court documents obtained by The Athletic. Sandusky, now 82, will attend an evidentiary hearing in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania, on September 8. This follows a judge’s approval for a review of evidence suggesting Victim 10 has either withdrawn or significantly altered his trial testimony.

Victim 10 submitted a signed affidavit on June 30, 2025, stating he felt pressured to alter his story. He admitted his testimony “evolved” due to “leading questions, intense investigative pressure, and psychological manipulation.” In the affidavit, he expressed regret for his role in the prosecution, which he now views as deeply flawed.

He specifically mentioned prosecutor Joe McGettigan, who led the case that impacted Penn State profoundly, resulting in the firing of the renowned football coach Joe Paterno in 2011. McGettigan passed away in December 2025.

Despite potential dismissal of charges related to Victim 10, Sandusky is expected to remain incarcerated, serving a 30- to 60-year sentence since his 2012 conviction on 45 sexual abuse charges.

The motion for a new trial filed by Sandusky’s lawyers highlighted Victim 10’s claims that he was misled to believe his fragmented memory justified him affirming details he could not clearly recall. He was under the impression that not testifying in the expected manner would allow Sandusky to escape justice.

Victim 10 detailed being coached during lengthy pretrial meetings to adjust his account according to the prosecution’s desired narrative.

Victim 10 urged consideration that his testimony may not reflect willful falsehoods but a tragic mix of memory gaps, professional suggestion, prosecutorial pressure, and his vulnerability.

Further complicating the situation, Victim 10’s estranged wife plans to testify mentioning his initial denial of abuse by Sandusky.

Pennsylvania Attorney General’s office stated any reflection by the woman on Victim 10’s past, thirteen years after Sandusky’s trial, holds no legal admissibility.

Victim 10 had previously received a $5.5 million settlement in a civil lawsuit against Penn State. He has not commented on whether his entire accusation is being recanted or just certain details, nor on the fate of the settlement money.

Attorney Andrew Shubin, who represented Victim 10 in the civil case, did not provide comments or confirm if he continues as his counsel.

Throughout, Sandusky has consistently asserted his innocence. He served on Joe Paterno’s coaching staff from 1969 to 1999 and founded The Second Mile nonprofit in 1977, ceasing operations in 2011 following his arrest. The organization aimed to assist underprivileged youth, through which Sandusky connected with many victims.