Brenda Tracy files action against Tucker, MSU

Chris Pantaleo
·2 min read
14
  • Oops!
    Something went wrong.
    Please try again later.

LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) – A former contractor for Michigan State University has filed notice in the Michigan Court of Claims of her intentions to sue MSU and former football coach Mel Tucker.

Anti-sexual assault and sexual harassment educator Brenda Tracy is seeking $75 million in damages from MSU and Tucker, her attorney confirms with 6 News. $50 million of that is for Tracy herself and $25 million is for her nonprofit, Set the Expectation.

A notice of intent is the first step in suing a government entity under state law.

FILE - Brenda Tracy, a sexual assault survivor and activist, waits on the Michigan Stadium field for the pregame coin toss, before an NCAA college football game between Michigan and Western Michigan in Ann Arbor, Mich., Sept. 8, 2018. Michigan State football coach Mel Tucker is facing a hearing next month over allegations that he sexually harassed Tracy during a phone call last year, according to USA Today. Michigan State hired an outside Title IX attorney to investigate the complaint and the investigation concluded in July, according to the report published Sunday, Sept. 10, 2023. (AP Photo/Tony Ding, file)

Tracy filed a complaint of sexual harassment against then-MSU head football coach Mel Tucker in December 2022. An investigation by MSU determined Tucker had violated the university’s policies related to relationships.

In her complaint, Tracy, who is a sexual assault survivor and educator on sexual assault and harassment prevention, alleged Tucker made sexually suggestive comments and masturbated while talking on the phone with him in late April 2022.

USA Today first reported the existence of the investigation into Tracy’s allegations against Tucker Sept. 10, 2023. Later that day, Tucker was suspended by the school. He was formally fired Sept. 27.

A hearing officer determined Tucker violated university policies during the April 2022 phone call on Oct. 26, 2023. Tucker appealed that decision, but the appeal was denied on Jan. 11, 2024.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News.