Michigan State University announced the suspension of its head football coach, Mel Tucker, as part of an ongoing investigation, school officials revealed on Sunday.
Despite a third-party inquiry concluding in July, athletic director Alan Haller stated at a news conference that a hearing scheduled for October and other related matters still need resolution.The suspension followed a report by USA Today, wherein a rape survivor and activist, who had a business relationship with Tucker, accused him of sexual harassment.In response, Tucker, as documented by the newspaper, formally denied engaging in any misconduct.According to the Lansing State Journal, Tucker, who joined the university in 2020, secured a 10-year, $95 million contract extension, elevating him to one of the highest-paid coaches in sports.With a coaching record of 23-21 (.523), encompassing three seasons at Michigan State and one at the University of Colorado, Tucker’s suspension without pay was described by Haller as a “conditional, interim measure” on Sunday.Interim university President Teresa K. Woodruff, during the news conference, emphasized the institution’s commitment to creating a culture that is “welcoming, supportive, and caring.”