Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.

According to a Justice Department investigation, The University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) did not properly handle allegations of sexual abuse made against its former swim and dive coach, Chad Cradock.

In a letter sent to UMBC, the DOJ criticized the university for its insufficient oversight of the Athletics Department and inadequate dedication to Title IX compliance. This lack of attention allowed a swim coach to persistently harass male student-athletes through unwanted sexual contact, and discriminate against female athletes. Despite being aware of these issues from 2015 to 2020, the university did not take appropriate measures to confront the problem effectively.

According to the Justice Department, the former head coach, who died while the investigation was ongoing, engaged in sexually inappropriate behaviors, including filming student athletes in showers and sexually touching male students.

In response, the DOJ has mandated UMBC to implement new policies, including the enhancement of the university’s Title IX office, broader training to handle sexual abuse and discrimination allegations, and increased support for student athletes. Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke said, “We will not tolerate sexual harassment and abuse of student-athletes on college campuses in our country. Too many school officials and administrators knew something for UMBC to have done nothing.”