A recent investigation conducted by Michigan State University has concluded that former Michigan State football coach Mel Tucker sexually harassed a rape survivor named Brenda Tracy.
Tucker had been accused of sexual harassment by Brenda Tracy, a prominent rape survivor and activist. Following the allegations, Michigan State decided to terminate Tucker’s employment in September.
The investigation report, which spans 73 pages, states that a university hearing officer determined Tucker’s guilt in sexually harassing and exploiting Tracy during a phone call that took place in April 2022. According to the report, Tucker engaged in masturbating and made unwanted sexual comments to Tracy without her consent during the call.
What makes this situation even more disturbing is that the phone call occurred eight months after Tucker had hired Tracy to educate the football team on sexual violence prevention. The report further reveals that Tucker had also made unwanted sexual advances towards Tracy in the months leading up to the call.
Tucker, who was initially suspended and later fired almost a month ago, now has 10 days to file an appeal against the decision.
“My first reaction was tears of relief,” Tracy expressed to USA Today in response to the investigation findings.
Tucker has stated that he intends to sue the university for wrongful termination and aims to recover a portion of the approximately $80 million remaining on his contract.
The school cited Tucker’s actions, which brought ridicule upon the institution, as well as his breach of contract and moral turpitude as reasons for his termination.
Tucker signed a $95 million, 10-year contract nearly two years ago. If the university has its way, he will forfeit approximately $80 million of that amount.
