SJSU Denies Records Request on 1998 Todd Kress Allegations, Citing Privacy

3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jul 13

San Jose State University refused to release emails tied to its review of allegations against volleyball coach Todd Kress after a public-records request sought communications about a complaint sent to the school in October 2024.
SJSU said the records are exempt under attorney-client privilege, personnel and privacy protections, and a balancing test under California law that it said favors nondisclosure over public interest.
The request centered on emails involving former interim Title IX officer Peter Lim after a former Fairfield player alleged Kress assaulted and threatened her in a hotel room following a 1998 NCAA tournament loss.
Emails previously obtained from another source show SJSU acknowledged the complaint on Oct. 24, 2024, met the former player in early November, and said it was evaluating next steps, but the university has issued no public statement on the allegations.

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As lawsuits mount, what is San Jose State hiding about its embattled volleyball coach's past?

Is SJSU using privacy laws to protect students, or to protect itself from a growing scandal?

San Jose State Volleyball Crisis: Public Records Denial, Abuse Claims, and Title IX Lawsuit Put Federal Funding at Risk

Overview

In June 2026, San Jose State University (SJSU) denied a public records request about 1998 abuse allegations against Coach Todd Kress, blocking immediate access to key documents. The university cited several California Public Records Act exemptions, such as privacy and legal privilege, to justify withholding the records. This move follows the resurfacing of the allegations in October 2024, when a former player detailed the incident in a letter to the athletic department. SJSU’s denial has sparked public scrutiny and could lead to legal challenges, especially since university officials have not commented on the situation.

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