No Indictment Against David Boren, Tripp Hall In OU Sexual Misconduct Investigation

The sexual misconduct investigation into former University of Oklahoma President David Boren and former OU Vice President Tripp Hall has concluded with no criminal indictment.

In a statement Tuesday, appointed acting Attorney General Patrick Henry said, "I have made the decision, after considering all relevant facts and circumstances, to not seek a Grand Jury criminal indictment relative to Boren’s and Hall’s alleged wrongful conduct while they were employed by the University of Oklahoma.”

Both Boren and Hall were accused of misconduct in 2019. Boren and Hall denied the accusations.

Related: OSBI Investigating Sexual Harassment Claims Against David Boren, Former VP Of Development

Jess Eddy, one man who claimed he was allegedly assaulted by Boren released the following statement Tuesday:

"The fact is David Boren preyed on young men at OU for decades. Many experienced much greater trauma than me. After OU dragged me into their politically charged investigation into criminal conduct—an investigation that should have been conducted by law enforcement from the beginning—and Boren attempted to use me to vindicate himself, I realized the depravity of my predicament and the potential consequences for others. Justice for me was not an indictment but rather that the truth prevail and measures be taken at OU to ensure this never happens again. It was not for me to decide what justice was for anyone else. It was my commitment to, and I hope that the OSBI, Special Counsel, and Attorney General Hunter took every step to, ensure that all victims had every opportunity to have the justice they are so entitled to. If that end was met, much of my objective has been accomplished. Sadly, we have yet to see reform in the removal of all individuals who permitted and facilitated David Boren’s predation at OU. Today, President Joseph Harroz, General Counsel Anil Gollahalli, and Clarke Stroud maintain positions of power and influence at OU, and no student or employee is safe under their administration. 

"I want to thank members of the community who believed me and stood with me through the vicious attacks by Boren, his attorneys, and his supporters throughout this saga. And I want to give particular gratitude to the members of the media who, at great risk to their own careers and livelihoods, pursued the truth with courage and determination. I, finally, want to thank the Norman Police officer who received my complaint and the OSBI agent in charge of the investigation for their diligence and courtesy to me and, I’m sure, to others. The humane treatment in the darkest period of my life will never be forgotten, and I am grateful to you all."

The Oklahoma Bureau of Investigation has closed its investigation.

Boren released the following statement through his attorney:

"Throughout my life, one of my primary goals has been to faithfully serve the people of Oklahoma. I deeply appreciate the support and encouragement that Oklahomans have given me over many years and especially during the recent painful and difficult time. The people of our state have a strong sense of fairness and justice. I thank Oklahomans for their kindness and their confidence in me. You have made me even more grateful to be an Oklahoman. Your prayers and support have sustained me throughout this ordeal."

Boren's attorney, Clark O. Brewster, released the following statement after no indictment news became public:

"Mr. Ryan's announcement today comes as no surprise, but certainly serves as a relief to David and Molly because they have painfully endured this amorphous assault on David's character for the past two years. David Boren is a great Oklahoman who has served his State, Nation and his beloved University with humble distinction. To be at his side during these vicious character attacks allowed me to witness how a truly humble and a selfless man endures. David and Molly are truly appreciative of the outpouring of support they received from Oklahomans who reached out with love and encouragement."

The University of Oklahoma issued the following statement Tuesday evening:

From the beginning, the university sought a thorough and objective investigation, cooperating extensively with the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation at every turn. The university appreciates the work of the OSBI and of the Grand Jury.

News 9’s Bonnie Campo will have more information on News 9 at 10 p.m.