GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The University of Florida has completed its four-month Title IX inquiry into allegations against men’s basketball head coach Todd Golden, clearing him of claims related to sexual exploitation, harassment, and stalking.

On Monday, the university announced that the investigation had concluded, revealing no supporting evidence against Golden amid what has been celebrated as Florida’s best basketball season in a decade, with the Gators achieving 18 wins in their first 20 games.

“The University of Florida treats these serious issues with utmost consideration and strives to maintain due process for all involved,” remarked a university representative in a statement. “After an extensive exploration that involved numerous interviews over several months, the findings showed no violations of Title IX by Todd Golden. Therefore, the Title IX office has officially closed this investigation.”

Previously, Golden had refrained from directly refuting the allegations to respect the ongoing investigation and had hinted at potential legal steps against his unnamed accusers. He expressed frustration regarding what he viewed as violations of the intended confidentiality of such proceedings. “I feel frustrated and disappointed that a Title IX mechanism established to protect both parties has had its confidentiality and privacy misused,” Golden remarked earlier in the month, in light of another ongoing Title IX issue involving assistant coach Taurean Green.

The allegations claimed that Golden had sent explicit photos and videos of himself, made unwanted advances on social media, and solicited sexual favors. The Independent Florida Alligator initially brought these allegations to light in early November.

Golden’s legal counsel, William Shepherd, has stated that the university’s findings demonstrate that the initial complaint held no merit. “Coach Golden and I have paid respect to the investigative process while engaging with the university,” Shepherd mentioned in a statement. “Unfortunately, some individuals have shown no regard for this process, instead choosing to act with their own interests in mind, attempting to target Coach Golden.”

Shepherd further noted that there have been incidents of leaked confidential information, harassment towards student-athletes and their families, and intimidation tactics against Golden and his loved ones. He indicated that Golden may explore legal recourse after the season concludes.

Throughout the investigation, the university’s Athletic Association has voiced support for Golden, acknowledging his professionalism during the ordeal. “Coach Golden has exemplified remarkable focus and professionalism throughout this process, and we applaud him for that,” the Athletic Association stated.

Title IX is a federal law aimed at safeguarding students from discrimination, inclusive of sexual harassment. The University of Florida began outsourcing its Title IX investigations earlier this year to a private firm located in California, Grand River Solutions.

“The past few months have presented challenges for my family and me while this process unfolded,” Golden shared in a statement via social media. “We requested that the public allow this process to reach its conclusion rather than jumping to conclusions based on accusations. The support from the UAA and many at the University has been immensely appreciated, and my family and I are very thankful.”

Golden expressed gratitude to the fans for their unwavering support towards the team and the program, emphasizing its significance during this challenging time.

At 39 years old, Golden signed a two-year contract extension in March, which included a substantial raise, bringing his annual salary to $4 million, effective until the end of the 2029-30 season. He has compiled a record of 58 wins and 31 losses over his three seasons.

Golden’s contract explicitly prohibits any romantic or sexual relationships between him and student-athletes under his supervision and allows disciplinary measures should he engage in actions that reflect negatively on the university or athletic program.

In related matters, the case involving assistant coach Taurean Green remains ongoing, with allegations of inappropriate behavior made against him. Green allegedly kissed a female athletic department employee and attempted to engage in further inappropriate actions. The complainant mentioned she did not report the incident initially due to Green’s status, but decided to come forward after being approached by Title IX investigators concerning Golden’s case.

Golden’s comprehensive support from the university, coupled with the recent findings in his case, have been pivotal during a turbulent period for the basketball program. The resolution of the investigation marks a significant moment as the team continues its impressive performance on the court this season.