Michigan president addresses campus after Sherrone Moore’s firing and arrest

University of Michigan president Domenico Grasso has issued a direct message to students and staff in the aftermath of former head football coach Sherrone Moore’s dismissal and subsequent arrest, calling the situation “painful” and reaffirming the school’s zero-tolerance approach.

Moore was fired for cause on Wednesday after a university investigation found “credible evidence” that he had engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a staff member. Hours later, local police took him into custody on suspicion of assault. He was held overnight but has not been formally charged.

In a letter sent Thursday, Grasso told the campus community that the findings presented to university leadership required an immediate response.

“There is absolutely no tolerance for this conduct at the University of Michigan. None,” Grasso wrote, adding that the breach of trust was difficult for the institution, “first and foremost, for the individuals directly affected.”

Grasso said the decision reflected Michigan’s commitment to “respect, integrity and accountability,” and noted that the internal investigation is continuing.

Moore, who is married and has three children, allegedly maintained an inappropriate relationship with a staff member, according to multiple reports. ESPN reported that those around the football program had grown increasingly concerned about Moore’s behavior in the days leading up to his firing, describing him as unusually volatile and confrontational with assistants.

Initial inquiries into Moore’s conduct had reportedly cooled near the end of the regular season, but the review was revived and escalated earlier this week.

Grasso closed his letter by emphasizing his desire for the university to move forward with “integrity and excellence” as it works through the fallout.

Michigan has named Biff Poggi as interim head coach. The Wolverines are scheduled to face Texas in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl on New Year’s Eve.