Marcus Freeman Issues Statement on the Recent Battery Allegations
- Luciano Antonini
- Jan 14
- 3 min read
Photo by The Irish Tribune
Notre Dame head football coach Marcus Freeman addressed the media on Wednesday in his first press conference in six weeks. At the start of the press conference, Freeman released a statement on the recent allegations that were brought against him earlier this week.
First reported by the South Bend Tribune on Sunday, a police report was filed alleging battery against a local high school wrestling coach at a local wrestling tournament. The St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office said earlier this week that Freeman will not face any charges after review of security footage and witness statements.
In Freeman's statement, he thanked local authorities for their investigation, the University of Notre Dame for its support of him throughout this situation, and various journalists for "not rushing to report without having all the facts and information."
Here is Marcus Freeman's full statement:
“First of all, I want to thank Notre Dame for their support and immediate response to this matter. I'm grateful for the trust and defense of me, even before the video evidence was released.
I also want to thank [the] Penn High School Administration, the community, and countless others who have reached out to me and my family. I want to commend the journalists who handled their reporting with integrity. I know many of you in this room were aware of the situation, as it was unfolding and I appreciate your patience, and not rushing to report without having all the facts and information.
It is also important to me to express my extreme disappointment with one particular local media outlet and a reporter who I believe chose to do the opposite. Had they handled themselves more professionally, and waited for more facts to become available, this would not have become a sensationalized story making national headlines.
Because they chose not to do so, my family and I have been dragged through the mud unnecessarily with clickbait headlines. The reality is, I behaved in a respectful and professional manner, while protecting my family, and that should have been the only headline.
Journalistic integrity should matter, of holding ethical principles and news reporting, with accuracy and fairness, should matter. I know I'm a public figure and I understand the scrutiny that comes with that, that scrutiny should not extend to my children or any other child of a public figure.
Lastly, I want to thank the Mishawaka Police Department and St. Joseph County Prosecutor's Office for their efforts in this matter. They examined all the evidence, including video footage and witness statements, and concluded that no criminal battery took place, and that no charges should be filed. I was confident in this outcome because I know I did not intentionally touch anyone in a rude, angry, or disrespectful way. I'm glad this matter has been thoroughly reviewed and resolved. Out of respect for everyone involved, I won't comment further, and we'll move forward with my family and team.”
-- Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame Head Football Coach
You can watch Marcus Freeman's full press conference and listen to his statement below.
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