Michigan State announces intentions to fire Mel Tucker for cause
Michigan State is beginning the process to officially fire head football coach Mel Tucker. AD Alan Haller confirmed the move in a statement released Monday afternoon.
Tucker is currently suspended without pay following an investigation into sexual harassment claims against the head coach. He has a hearing with the university scheduled for October, but the Spartans are moving forward with plans to fire the coach.
Tucker will have seven days to dispute being fired for cause.
“I, with the support of administration and board, have provided Mel Tucker with written notice of intent to terminate his contract for cause,” wrote Haller in the statement. “This notification process is required as part of his existing contract. The notice provides Tucker with seven calendar days to respond and present reasons to me and the interim president as to why he should not be terminated for cause.
“This action does not conclude the ongoing Office of Civil Rights case; that rigorous process will continue.”
In the notice issued to Tucker, Michigan State included 2 causes for termination. The coach materially breaching the agreement and the coach engaging in “any conduct which constitutes moral turpitude or which, in the University’s reasonable judgment, would tend to bring public disrespect, contempt, or ridicule upon the university.”
