By John Q. Hosedrinker 
A Villanova student who was sexually assaulted in 2022 is demanding that Juan Eguiguren, who videotaped the assault, be barred from participating in graduation ceremonies. Eguiguren’s attorney cites an information resolution agreement reached between the victim and Eguiguren as preventing further action, but the victim’s attorney argues this agreement was signed under duress and doesn’t preclude Villanova from taking disciplinary action. The victim’s attorney contends that allowing Eguiguren to graduate would be a profound moral failing and further victimize the survivor. Villanova University has yet to publicly respond.
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Villanova University is facing intense criticism over its handling of a sexual assault case, specifically concerning a student, Juan Eguiguren, who filmed the assault of an unconscious woman. The outrage centers on the fact that Eguiguren, despite his participation in the crime, is slated to graduate and walk across the stage at commencement. This is unacceptable given the severity of the situation and the apparent lack of justice for the victim. The recorded assault involved three individuals; the perpetrator, who received a plea bargain with no prison time; Eguiguren, who filmed the assault and helped dispose of the victim’s body; and another individual who also assisted in moving the victim. The fact that only the perpetrator received any form of legal action is appalling. This situation highlights a systemic failure, not only within Villanova’s administration but also within the legal system itself.
The argument that this should be treated as an open-and-shut case is compelling. There’s irrefutable video evidence of a non-consensual act, yet one participant involved is walking free, seemingly without any consequences for his actions. The legal classification of the crime as “sexual assault” rather than “rape” in Pennsylvania, while technically accurate, feels like a semantic loophole that downplays the severity of the act captured on video. This legal distinction only adds fuel to the fire of public outrage. The fact that the incident was filmed in a dorm room, and the perpetrators then moved the unconscious victim to another location, underscores the callous disregard they showed for the victim’s well-being. This blatant disregard for human dignity demands a forceful response from the university.
The outrage isn’t limited to the lack of criminal charges; the university’s apparent inaction is equally troubling. Allowing Eguiguren to graduate and participate in the commencement ceremony is seen by many as a profound betrayal of the victim and a slap in the face to anyone who believes in justice. The university’s handling of this situation sets a dangerous precedent; one that suggests that involvement in a sexual assault carries minimal consequences, especially for those with connections or influence. This perceived lack of accountability sends a chilling message, not only to other students, but to society at large. The fact that the university has not expelled Eguiguren after this demonstrably egregious act is a further insult to the victim and all survivors of sexual assault.
The public outcry is understandable. The video evidence, combined with the inaction of both the legal system and Villanova, has fueled a firestorm of anger and frustration. Many are expressing their concern about the potential for future incidents of this kind, and are rightfully questioning the effectiveness of Title IX processes. This case reveals significant flaws in the way universities handle sexual assault reports and the way the legal system operates. The fact that this occurred on a college campus makes it all the more egregious. The safety and security of students are supposedly paramount in a university setting, and this case demonstrably fails to meet those expectations.
The demand that Eguiguren not be allowed to participate in graduation is not simply a symbolic gesture; it’s a vital step towards accountability. Allowing him to walk across the stage would be a grotesque insult to the victim and would only serve to further damage the university’s reputation. It is a blatant display of a lack of consideration for the trauma the victim endured and the profound impact that this assault will have on her life. It is a complete failure of the system, and for Villanova to allow him to celebrate this milestone would be unconscionable. The university must act decisively and publicly to demonstrate its commitment to protecting its students and to ensuring that such crimes are not tolerated. Failing to do so will only embolden others and perpetuate a culture of impunity. The university’s response, or lack thereof, will speak volumes about its values and priorities. The moral imperative here is clear, and the university risks irreparable damage to its reputation and standing in the community if it fails to act appropriately. The lack of sufficient action from the University, along with the insufficient legal action speaks to the difficulties and deficiencies in the systems designed to protect and provide justice for survivors of sexual assault. This situation cries out for a significant and lasting change.