Sherrone Moore, the former head coach of the University of Michigan's football team, was taken into custody by police on Wednesday following allegations of assault at an apartment in Ann Arbor. The incident occurred mere hours after Moore was terminated from his role at the university due to an inappropriate relationship with a staff member.
The 39-year-old, who is married and a father of three, was booked into Washtenaw County Jail after police responded to a 911 call about a domestic assault at the residence of his executive assistant, 32-year-old Paige Shiver. Dispatch audio from the police indicated that the male suspect had been attacking a woman at the location and had allegedly been stalking the victim for an extended period.
Further details emerged from the dispatch recordings, which suggested that the suspect had threatened someone with a knife before dropping the weapon and fleeing. The suspect's wife also reported to authorities that he was experiencing suicidal thoughts after losing his job earlier that day.
Prior to his arrest, Moore had been dismissed from his position, which carried a $6 million annual salary, after an investigation by the university revealed evidence of his violation of university policy. Although the identity of the university staffer involved in the relationship with Moore has not been disclosed, Athletic Director Warde Manuel confirmed the existence of credible evidence against Moore and emphasized the university's zero-tolerance policy for such behavior.
The arrest and subsequent events have raised questions about Moore's recent behavior and mental health. Reports from within the Michigan coaching staff suggested that Moore had been acting out of character, displaying erratic behavior, and berating assistant coaches. An initial investigation into his conduct had quieted down toward the end of the regular season, but concerns resurfaced in the weeks leading up to his dismissal.
Moore's record as head coach stands at 18-8 over two seasons, with the team finishing 9-3 in the season before his termination. The university community has been addressed by interim President Domenico Grasso, who condemned Moore's actions as a breach of trust and urged anyone with information to come forward as the investigation continues.
The Washtenaw County Prosecutor's Office has confirmed that Moore remains in custody, with charging decisions pending until his arraignment, scheduled for Friday. As the legal process unfolds, the university and its stakeholders are grappling with the implications of his actions both on and off the field.
