Michigan State Releases Statement on Football Players' Alleged Sexual Assault

Michigan State University released a statement Tuesday responding to the ongoing sexual assault investigation of three of its football players and announcing the commencement of a Title IX investigation into the matter.

The release included a statement from athletic director Mark Hollis:

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The core values of MSU Athletics are clear, consistently communicated and non-negotiable. Among them are respect for self and others, accountability for actions and choices, and integrity. Sexual assault is unacceptable, and members of MSU Athletics who fail to uphold our standards for creating a culture that is safe, supportive, and responsive to those affected by it will be held accountable. My expectation of all members of the department is full and complete cooperation with all investigations.

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Title IX consultant Rebecca Veidlinger will conduct the university investigation. All three student-athletes, who have not been publicly identified, have been suspended indefinitely from the team and barred from on-campus housing.

The statement also included the following comments from Spartans coach Mark Dantonio:

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Regarding the ongoing investigations taking place within our program, the allegations are something we’re extremely concerned about and taking very seriously. We took immediate action by suspending those involved as soon as we were notified of the situation. Our action is separate from the ongoing criminal and administrative investigations. Those processes will determine if a crime has been committed and also if any university policy has been violated.

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The Ingham County Prosecutor’s office told Matt Charboneau of the Detroit News Tuesday that there was no update on their investigation. On Feb.  9, university police first announced their investigation into the sexual assault that allegedly took place in January.

Prosecutor Carol Siemon has asked university police for more information in the case, though no further updates have been provided. 

“I have asked the MSU Police Department to continue that investigation and submit to our office additional information and evidence,” she said in a statement on Feb. 16, per Charboneau. “Upon the review of those materials, I will determine a charging decision in this matter.”

Michigan State began spring practice Saturday but has not opened sessions to the media.