Michigan State Coach Mel Tucker Suspended Amid Ongoing Investigation
Michigan State head football coach Mel Tucker has been suspended without pay as the university conducts an ongoing investigation, according to an announcement made by the university on Sunday. The suspension comes after an explosive report was published in USA Today accusing Tucker of making sexual comments and engaging in inappropriate behavior during a phone call with Brenda Tracy, an advocate and rape survivor.
The investigation into Tucker began in December and an investigative report was submitted in July. A formal hearing is scheduled to take place the week of October 5. The details of the USA Today report have not been independently verified by CNN.
Brenda Tracy is the founder of the nonprofit organization Set The Expectation, where she speaks to athletes about ending sexual violence. Tracy herself is a rape survivor, having been assaulted by four college football players in 1998. In 2022, she served as an honorary captain for Michigan State’s spring football game.
This is Tucker’s fourth season as the head coach for the Spartans, taking on the position in 2020. The suspension comes amidst scrutiny directed at Michigan State University for its handling of past sexual abuse allegations against former sports physician Larry Nassar.
Nassar, who also served as a team doctor for USA Gymnastics, was sentenced to up to 175 years in prison in 2018 after pleading guilty to seven counts of criminal sexual conduct. He admitted to using his trusted medical position to assault and molest girls under the guise of medical treatment. Michigan State University has faced legal action from Nassar’s victims, who allege that the school’s board of trustees prevented the release of crucial documents related to the case.
During Tucker’s suspension, secondary coach Harlon Barnett will serve as the acting head coach, and former MSU head coach Mark Dantonio will become an associate head coach. The team is set to play against the Washington Huskies on Saturday.
Michigan State University interim president Teresa K. Woodruff emphasized that an independent and unbiased investigation is being conducted into the allegations against Tucker. She also noted that counseling resources are available for anyone affected by the news.
CNN reached out to both Brenda Tracy and Mel Tucker’s agent for comment but has not received a response. The university has not provided additional details regarding the ongoing investigation.