Mel Tucker, former head coach of Michigan State University football, is attempting to keep his divorce proceedings private while also pursuing a wrongful termination lawsuit against his former employer. Tucker has asked the judge overseeing the divorce case to prevent media scrutiny and has filed a motion for a protective order to seal the case record. Tucker also requested the removal of a mutual restraining order that prevents him from using joint funds to cover his personal legal fees, which he argues are necessary to continue pursuing the wrongful termination lawsuit.
Tucker was suspended in September after allegations of sexual harassment surfaced, with activist and rape survivor Brenda Tracy accusing him of sexually harassing her during a phone call. Tracy filed a complaint with the school’s Title IX office, leading to Tucker’s firing for cause by Michigan State. Tucker admitted to phone sex with Tracy but claimed it was consensual. His $95 million, 10-year contract was terminated, and Tucker is now faced with not only the divorce proceedings but also Tracy’s intent to sue him and the university for damages in excess of $75 million for harming her reputation and causing emotional and psychological harm.
Following his suspension and subsequent firing, Tucker’s wife of 25 years, Jo Ellyn, filed for divorce and was granted a restraining order after alleging that Tucker had spent around $1.5 million from their joint funds on legal bills and transferred money from retirement accounts without her consent. Tucker refuted these claims, stating that Jo Ellyn was aware of his financial decisions and that both of them stood to benefit financially if he won the wrongful termination lawsuit against MSU. The ongoing legal battles and financial disputes have added another layer of complexity to Tucker’s already tumultuous situation.
Tucker began his coaching career as a graduate assistant with Nick Saban at Michigan State in 1997. After coaching stints in college football and the NFL, Tucker returned to Michigan State with a lucrative contract, only to face allegations that ultimately led to his termination and the subsequent legal battles. Despite his success in the coaching realm, Tucker’s personal and professional life has been marred by controversy and legal issues, making it a challenging time for him to navigate.
As Tucker fights to keep his divorce proceedings private and pursues his wrongful termination lawsuit against Michigan State, the future for the former head coach remains uncertain. With both personal and professional matters hanging in the balance, Tucker must find a way to navigate these challenges and move forward in his career and personal life. The ongoing legal battles and media scrutiny surrounding his actions and decisions have put Tucker in a difficult position, as he seeks to clear his name and protect his reputation while also seeking justice for what he claims was an unjust termination.
