Florida Basketball coach Todd Golden has been officially cleared of allegations brought against him in a Title IX investigation, as announced by his attorney William Shepherd.
The investigation was made public after the Independent Alligator published details that accused Golden of sexual harassment, stalking, and other forms of misconduct. However, after a comprehensive review, the university found no evidence to support these claims.
In a statement, Sheperd said:
"The University of Florida informed me that the Title IX investigation into Coach Todd Golden has finally been dismissed. This investigation has found no evidence to support the allegations against Coach Golden. The University's conclusion proves that the complaint was meritless.
Coach Golden and I have respected the process throughout while actively engaging with the University.
However, there were many who did not respect the investigative process. Instead, they sought to target Coach Golden and drive their agenda and this investigation for their own self-interest. Some leaked confidential material to the media; falsely posed as a UF lawyer in an effort to intimidate; harassed UF students and parents to try to generate a false narrative; and harassed my client, his family, and his friends.
Coach Golden appreciates the support he and his program have received from so many at the University and from around the country. Now that this is concluded, Coach can continue to focus on the basketball season and consider his legal options in the off season - but now it's time to move forward."
Golden, who has led the Gators to an 18-2 start this season, expressed his gratitude earlier this year for the support received from the university and the wider community.
He released his own statement on X that said:
“The last several months have been a challenge for my family and me while this process dragged on. We asked for the public to allow the process to work through to its conclusion and not rush to judgement based on allegations. The UAA and so many at the University have been tremendously supportive - my family and I are extremely grateful.
And thank you to our fans for your incredible support for our players and our program. It has made a huge difference.”
— Todd Golden (@CoachToddGolden) January 27, 2025
The University Athletic Association (UAA) also issued a statement acknowledging the conclusion of the investigation:
"The UAA acknowledges the completion of the review. We take these matters seriously and understand the need for the process to be conducted with strict confidentiality and discretion," said a UAA spokesperson.