“As ‘Varsity Blues’ Winds Down, Attys Recall a Wild Beginning”

Eric Rosen, a prominent figure in the "Varsity Blues" college admissions scandal, played a pivotal role as lead prosecutor in one of the most sensational cases of recent years. The case, which erupted into the public eye on March 12, 2019, captured widespread attention as Hollywood stars, wealthy parents, and athletic coaches were implicated in bribery schemes to secure college admissions for students. Rosen, who now works at his own firm, Dynamis LLP, recalls the intense early days of the investigation and the unique challenges it posed.

In a retrospective with Law360, Rosen shared how preparations for the “takedown” began days before the arrests, with the team working nearly around the clock to finalize the criminal complaint. On the morning of the arrests, Rosen arrived at the FBI office at dawn, where he and his team coordinated the nationwide arrests of dozens of individuals. The press frenzy was unprecedented, with over 500 calls coming in within the first few days alone, highlighting the public's fascination with the high-profile defendants and the nature of the charges.

Rosen describes the surreal experience of standing on stage during the press conference, his phone buzzing constantly with messages and missed calls from people watching the news unfold. His account underscores the case’s impact, not only in the courtroom but in shaping public discourse on privilege and accountability. Despite initial skepticism about the case’s significance, it soon became clear that "Varsity Blues" had become a cultural flashpoint, drawing attention to the lengths some would go for college admissions.

Rosen’s reflections provide insight into the complex orchestration required for such a large-scale operation and the case’s lasting significance as it winds down in 2023.