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The tattoo parlor owner whose purchase of Ohio State memorabilia triggered a far-reaching football scandal says he has received death threats and saw his family's finances destroyed.
Edward Rife pleaded guilty in June to drug trafficking and money laundering charges unrelated to the scandal. He is scheduled for sentencing next week.
A document filed by Rife's attorney Friday in federal court says Rife has spent the past year fearing for the safety of his family and children.
Federal authorities investigating Rife's role in a marijuana distribution plot discovered he'd been buying Ohio State memorabilia from football players or giving them discounts on tattoos for the items.
That discovery triggered an NCAA investigation, led to coach Jim Tressel's forced resignation and the departure of star quarterback Terrelle Pryor.
