Additionally, the court found that Huang’s retaliation claims were improperly dismissed. The judges stated that Huang’s physical rejection of Rizzoni’s advances constituted enough evidence of opposition, even without formal complaints. The court also criticized the exclusion of critical evidence, such as emails in which Rizzoni appeared to threaten Huang’s academic progress and blocked information about her strong academic record.
OSU Student Harassment reversal : Differing Judicial Opinions
While the majority ruled in favor of a new trial, U.S. Circuit Judge Chad A. Readler partially dissented, arguing that the evidentiary errors were not serious enough to warrant a retrial. He stated that the jury had already heard significant evidence about Rizzoni’s conduct and ultimately sided with him, casting doubt on whether the blocked evidence would have changed the outcome.
OSU Student Harassment reversal : Impact and Next Steps
The case now returns to the lower court for further proceedings, with Huang’s legal team preparing to present the previously excluded evidence. Representatives for OSU and Rizzoni declined to comment on the ruling.
