TALLAHASSEE, FL (WTXL) - Officials with Florida State University say they have reached a settlement with Erica Kinsman in exchange for her dropping her Title IX lawsuit against the university.
The lawsuit claimed the university failed to investigate properly or respond to the alleged assault by former FSU Quarterback Jameis Winston against Kinsman and therefore claiming her educational benefits were denied.
University officials say just short of a $1 million is expected to be paid out in the settlement; Kinsman is expected to receive $250,000 and her attorneys will receive $700,000.
Officials say the settlement was reached as a way to avoid paying more money through litigation expenses.
"Although we regret we will never be able to tell our full story in court, it is apparent that a trial many months from now would have left FSU fighting over the past rather than looking toward its very bright future. We have decided to instead move forward even though we have full faith that the ultimate outcome of a trial would have been consistent with the previous law enforcement investigations and retired Supreme Court Justice Major Harding's findings in the student conduct hearing," FSU President John Thrasher said in a press release.
In August, a federal judge denied the university's attempt to dismiss Kinsman's lawsuit.
Kinsman's attorneys also released a statement, saying in addition to the cash settlement, FSU is required to make a five year commitment to sexual assault awareness, prevention, and training programs.
They also say the university must increase transparency by releasing annual reports detailing what the school is doing to address sexual assault on campus.
Attorneys add that this settlement is separate from Kinsman's sexual assault lawsuit against Winston.
