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A sexual assault survivor advocate, Brenda Tracy, has filed a defamation lawsuit against former Michigan State University football coach Mel Tucker, accusing him of falsely claiming she fabricated a sexual harassment complaint. The suit, filed in a Lansing court on Monday, alleges that Tucker's statements damaged Tracy's reputation and provided the university with an excuse to fire him in 2023.

Mel Tucker Defamation Suit : Allegations Against Tucker

Tracy, a well-known rape survivor and activist, originally met Tucker in August 2021 while contracted by MSU to speak to the football team. According to the complaint, their professional relationship became strained after Tucker allegedly made unwanted advances. The lawsuit outlines that during a phone call in April 2022, Tucker made sexually explicit remarks without Tracy's consent, leaving her "in shock and disbelief." Tracy claims Tucker later accused her of seeking a "sugar daddy" and having phone sex, allegations she denies.

In response to these claims, Tucker has publicly asserted that his relationship with Tracy was consensual and that her allegations were financially motivated.

Legal and University Actions

MSU conducted an investigation into the misconduct claims after Tracy reported the incident in August 2022, emphasizing that she did not want the matter made public. Despite her wishes, Tracy's identity was disclosed, prompting her to speak to the media in September 2023. Shortly after, MSU suspended Tucker without pay and later fired him for cause.

Tucker responded by filing a wrongful termination lawsuit against MSU and others, claiming the university terminated him based on false allegations to protect themselves in the wake of the Larry Nassar scandal. He contends that the investigation was used to preserve university leadership's positions and reputations.

Mel Tucker Defamation Suit : Tracy's Defamation Claims

Tracy's defamation suit alleges that Tucker's statements about her were not only false but intended to harm her personally and professionally. The lawsuit also includes claims for breach of contract, invasion of privacy, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. Tracy seeks unspecified damages, attorney fees, and equitable relief. A protective order has been issued to prevent Tucker from releasing further information regarding Tracy or other survivors.

The outcome of both Tracy's defamation suit and Tucker's wrongful termination lawsuit could have significant implications for both parties.