Michigan State suspends coach after rape survivor accuses him of sexual harassment during phone call: Report
Suspension of Michigan State University Head Football Coach
School officials have taken a decisive action against Michigan State University head football coach Mel Tucker. In a shocking turn of events, Tucker has been suspended without pay following allegations of sexual harassment made by a prominent rape survivor and activist.
The suspension was announced by Michigan State President Teresa K. Woodruff and athletic director Alan Haller, pending the outcome of an MSU Title IX investigation into the allegations against Tucker. The seriousness of the situation cannot be understated.
The allegations against Tucker were brought to light in a report by USA Today. Brenda Tracy, a courageous rape survivor who dedicates her time to educating athletes about sexual violence, accused the football coach of sexually harassing her during a phone call on April 28, 2022.
Tracy revealed that Tucker had invited her to the campus on three separate occasions. While she initially spoke to the players and staff about sexual violence in sports culture, the situation took a disturbing turn during the third visit. Tracy filed a complaint with the university’s Title IX office, stating that Tucker made explicit sexual comments about her and engaged in inappropriate behavior.
Tracy expressed her deep disappointment, saying, “The idea that someone could know me and say they understand my trauma but then re-inflict that trauma on me is so disgusting to me, it’s hard for me to even wrap my mind around it. It’s like he sought me out just to betray me.”
The university took the allegations seriously and hired an outside Title IX attorney to investigate Tracy’s complaint. The investigation concluded in July, but the repercussions are only just beginning.
Brenda Tracy’s journey as an activist against sexual violence in sports began in 2014, after she was gang-raped by three college football players and a recruit in 1998. Her powerful message, “Violence against women must stop,” has resonated across college sports.
Tucker, who is married and has two children, admitted to the accusations made against him during the phone call. However, he claimed that the interaction was consensual ”phone sex.” His response has only added fuel to the fire.
With Tucker’s $95 million, 10-year contract with MSU still in its early stages, the university faces a difficult decision. If the allegations are proven true and Tucker is fired, he would lose out on the remainder of his deal.
According to his contract, Michigan State has the right to terminate Tucker for cause if his conduct brings public disrespect, contempt, or ridicule upon the university. The upcoming formal hearing, scheduled to begin on October 5, will shed further light on the situation.
Interim Head Coach and Support
During Tucker’s suspension, MSU secondary coach Harlon Barnett will step in as interim head coach. Additionally, the university has enlisted the help of former head coach Mark Dantonio as an associate head coach. These measures aim to ensure the stability and continuity of the football program during this challenging time.
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