04/17/24 03:36:00
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04/17 15:34 CDT Kentucky spokeswoman: School is 'distressed' to hear of alleged
sexual misconduct by ex-swim coach
Kentucky spokeswoman: School is 'distressed' to hear of alleged sexual
misconduct by ex-swim coach
LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) --- A Kentucky spokeswoman says the school is "distressed
to hear disturbing allegations" of sexual assault by former swimming and diving
coach Lars Jorgensen outlined in a lawsuit by two former team members and will
cooperate fully with law enforcement.
Former swimmer and assistant coach Briggs Alexander and an unidentified woman
filed the suit on Friday in U.S. District Court against Jorgensen, the school
and athletic director Mitch Barnhart, alleging sexual assaults including rape
by the former coach. The suit also claims the school "purposefully" disregarded
multiple credible reports of inappropriate sexual relationships and empowered
Jorgensen to "foster a toxic, sexually hostile environment" and prey on,
sexually harass, and commit horrific sexual assaults.
A Wednesday release from university spokeswoman Kristi Willet stated that the
school contacted law enforcement upon learning details from the initial article
reported by The Athletic. It added that no one should be subject to the abuse
described in the lawsuit.
"Our top priority is the health and safety of our students and employees," the
release stated. "We have no tolerance for harm, harassment or abuse.
"To our employees, students and the entire University of Kentucky family, we
want to be absolutely clear: we do not tolerate these types of behaviors," the
release added. "We will do everything possible to ensure the safety and
well-being of our students, faculty and staff."
The lawsuit also said Jorgensen's predecessor, Gary Conell, did not follow up
after being told of previous alleged misconduct by the coach at Toledo. It also
said that Barnhart did not follow up an email about allegations or investigate
them and hired Jorgensen; he's also accused of intentionally concealing the
allegations. Barnhart said Sunday that he couldn't comment on the matter
because it is being litigated but noted, "We always want to have safety for our
student-athletes, our coaches and our staff."
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AP college sports: https://apnews.com/hub/college-sports
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