Mel Tucker, the coach of Michigan State, is scheduled to attend a hearing regarding accusations of sexual harassment made by a survivor of rape.
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USA Today reports that next month, Michigan State football coach Mel Tucker will be attending a hearing regarding accusations of sexual harassment made by activist and rape survivor Brenda Tracy during a phone conversation last year.
According to the report released on Sunday, Michigan State University enlisted the services of an external Title IX lawyer to conduct an inquiry into the complaint. The investigation was completed in July.
USA Today reported that there will be a hearing on October 5-6 to assess whether Tucker has breached the school’s policy on sexual harassment and exploitation.
The school made an announcement stating that there would be an update on the football program on Sunday evening, which would be provided by Michigan State President Teresa K. Woodruff and athletic director Alan Haller.
Tucker is in the third year of a $95 million, 10-year contract and if he is fired for cause, the school would not have to pay him what’s remaining on his deal.
If Tucker participates in any behavior that is morally wrong or that the University believes would harm its reputation, Michigan State has the right to terminate his employment. Additionally, if Tucker significantly violates the terms of his contract, the university can suspend him without salary.
The Associated Press reached out to Tucker, Tracy, Haller, and Tucker’s lawyer, Jennifer Belveal, on Sunday for their comments.
According to USA Today, Tracy and Tucker’s friendship changed in April 2022 due to an incident where Tucker engaged in a sexual act during a phone conversation with her.
Tracy expressed her disgust towards the notion that someone who claims to understand her trauma would intentionally cause her to experience that trauma again. She finds it difficult to comprehend how someone could purposely seek her out only to betray her.
Tucker admitted to investigators in the previous spring that he engaged in self-stimulation during the phone conversation with Tracy, but he claimed that they mutually agreed to participate in sexual activity over the phone.
“I am deeply impacted by Ms. Tracy’s misrepresentation of our agreed and close relationship as sexual exploitation,” Tucker expressed in a letter dated March 22, addressed to the Title IX investigator. “Although I regret my decision and find it challenging to forgive myself for being involved in this situation, I want to clarify that I did not partake in any form of misconduct according to any definition.”
Tucker’s fourth season with Michigan State saw them defeating Richmond on Saturday, resulting in a 2-0 record. Tucker holds one of the highest-paid positions among college football coaches.
Tracy has been recognized for her efforts in raising awareness about sexual violence among college athletes. She has delivered presentations to the football team at Michigan State University on several occasions.