Former Michigan State head football coach Mel Tucker seeks to keep divorce proceedings private while pursuing a wrongful termination lawsuit against his former employer.
Mel Tucker, the former head football coach at Michigan State University, is facing scrutiny on multiple fronts, including divorce proceedings and a wrongful termination lawsuit against his former employer.
Tucker has filed a request to seal his ongoing divorce proceedings and prevent media scrutiny, citing a desire for privacy. However, his wife, Jo Ellyn Tucker, has filed for divorce and obtained a restraining order, alleging that Tucker spent $1.5 million from their joint funds on legal bills.
Tucker's attorneys have argued that he needs access to the funds to pay for his legal fees in the wrongful termination suit. The couple has a mutual restraining order in place, prohibiting Tucker from using joint accounts to cover personal expenses.
Tucker was suspended in September 2023 after sexual harassment allegations against him were made public. Michigan State fired him for cause two weeks later, alleging his actions subjected the institution to ridicule.
Tucker has filed a wrongful termination lawsuit, claiming the university breached his contract. The lawsuit alleges that Tucker followed Michigan State's policies and procedures regarding the alleged incident with Brenda Tracy, an activist who claimed he sexually harassed her.
Tucker has acknowledged engaging in phone sex with Tracy but maintains it was consensual. He signed a $95 million, 10-year contract with Michigan State in 2021.
Jo Ellyn Tucker has accused her husband of transferring funds from their joint accounts to accounts she could not access. Tucker has disputed these claims and stated that his wife was aware of his plans to consolidate his retirement accounts.
Michigan State conducted an investigation into the allegations against Tucker and concluded that they violated university policy. Brenda Tracy and her nonprofit, Set The Expectation, filed an intent to sue Tucker and MSU, alleging harm to her reputation and seeking damages over $75 million.
Tucker began his coaching career with Nick Saban as a graduate assistant at Michigan State in 1997. He returned to the school with a lucrative contract after leading Colorado for one season and serving as an assistant coach at Georgia, Alabama, and Ohio State.
Tucker also held a head coaching position with the Jacksonville Jaguars during the 2011 season.
The legal battles surrounding Mel Tucker have cast a shadow over Michigan State's athletic program and raised questions about the university's handling of sexual misconduct allegations. The wrongful termination suit could have implications for other institutions facing similar situations.
The outcome of these legal proceedings will significantly impact Tucker's career and reputation, as well as the future of Michigan State University and college athletics.
