Brenda Tracy Files $75M Lawsuit Against Michigan State Board for Identity Leak Amid Mel Tucker Case

Brenda Tracy, a sexual assault survivor and activist, has filed a federal lawsuit against Michigan State University's Board of Trustees and two individual trustees, Rema Vassar and Dennis Denno, alleging they leaked her identity after she reported sexual harassment by former football coach Mel Tucker. Tracy claims the leak violated her confidentiality, led to harassment and threats against her and her family, and caused emotional distress and financial harm. The lawsuit includes seven counts such as gross negligence, breach of contract, and violation of Title IX, seeking over $75 million in damages including compensation on behalf of her nonprofit. Tucker was fired for cause in September 2023 after an investigation confirmed he violated university policies, but he has since sued MSU for wrongful termination. The university commissioned investigations that found no direct evidence of a leak by officials, yet the board requested the removal of the trustees implicated, a request declined by the governor. This lawsuit adds to ongoing legal battles involving Tracy, Tucker, and MSU leadership, highlighting the complexities and fallout from the case.