FIU Athlete Under Investigation Before Sexual Harassment Allegations
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MIAMI (CBSMiami) -- A student - athlete at Florida International University was under investigation before she alleged the coach of the basketball team sexually harassed her.
FIU Police was investigating Destini Feagin in a criminal theft case that was opened February 15th.
"Based on information provided to the Athletic Department on February 22nd, the student-athlete was suspended from the women's basketball team the following day,"a letter sent by the school stated.
The school says following her suspension, Feagin reported the allegations against Coach Marlin Chinn saying he sexually harassed her - prompting an investigation.
Chinn has since been suspended over the allegations - at least while the investigation is ongoing.
"We want to reiterate that at FIU there is no tolerance for misconduct by an employee or a student. We will pursue the truth to the best of our abilities while supporting the victims and ensuring due process for all involved," FIU's letter said.
Feagin told CBS4's news partners at The Miami Herald that Chinn pursued a sexual relationship with her for much of the season.
Miami Herald Sports Writer David Neal broke this story.
"She said he told her, 'I have sexual fantasies about you,'" Neal said.
According to the Herald, Feagin said Chinn touched her inappropriately before a game earlier this month.
Feagin claims that the coach suspended her after she refused his advances.
Feagin and her mother also said they took their complaints to the school and Feagin said she filed an NCAA complaint. The next day, she was scratched from the team's annual Senior Night ceremony.
Chinn refused to comment on the allegations citing university policy. He is in his first season as head coach. He replaced the legendary Cindy Russo.