Michigan State University Denies Mel Tucker’s Appeal in Sexual Harassment Investigation

Michigan State University has announced that an outside attorney hired by the university has denied an appeal made by former head football coach Mel Tucker. This decision marks the end of a more than year-long investigation into sexual harassment allegations against Tucker.

Violation of Sexual Harassment Policy Confirmed

In October, a Michigan State hearing officer ruled that Tucker had violated the university’s sexual harassment policy during a phone call with Brenda Tracy, a sexual violence prevention advocate hired by the university, in April 2022. As a result, Tucker was fired for cause in September.

Tucker appealed the ruling, but MSU vice president and spokesperson Emily Guerrant confirmed on Thursday that the appeal upheld the violation of the university’s Relationship Violence and Sexual Misconduct and Title IX Policy.

“The university is committed to fostering a culture of safety within our community,” said Guerrant. “This commitment includes supporting those who have experienced relationship violence or sexual misconduct, safeguarding privacy, and ensuring a fair process.”

A representative for Tucker did not provide a comment regarding the decision.

Investigation Timeline and Allegations

The investigation into Tucker began in December 2022 when Brenda Tracy filed a Title IX complaint. A 73-page report released in October concluded that Tucker had sexually harassed and exploited Tracy during their April 2022 phone call.

According to USA Today, Tracy accused Tucker of making sexual comments and masturbating during the call. The two had initially met in August 2021 when Tracy visited the campus to speak to athletes about sexual assault awareness.

Tracy made her allegations public in a USA Today article in September 2023.

Tucker’s Denial and Termination

In September, Tucker released a statement denying the allegations. He described the phone conversation as “an entirely mutual, private event between two adults living at opposite ends of the country.”

A week after providing Tucker with written notice of its intent to terminate his contract, the university officially fired him on September 27. The university cited Tucker’s “admitted and undisputed behaviors which have brought public disrespect, contempt, and ridicule upon the university” as the reason for terminating his contract with cause.

Conclusion

The denial of Mel Tucker’s appeal by Michigan State University marks the end of a lengthy investigation into sexual harassment allegations against the former head football coach. The university remains committed to creating a safe environment and supporting those affected by relationship violence or sexual misconduct.

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(Photo: Mike Mulholland / Getty Images)