Todd Golden preached for Florida fans to let “due process” take its course before judging the allegations levied against him in a Title IX complaint.
The Gators men’s basketball coach was on the sideline for Monday’s 86-62 win over Grambling State, his first public appearance since The Independent Florida Alligator reported that the university was investigating Golden over allegations of sexual harassment and stalking several current and former female students.
Speaking specifically to Florida’s female fans, Golden asked for patience as the inquiry played out.
“Obviously, in this situation, due process and to continue to support guys, and I just would hope that they would allow the process to take place and see where it ends up,” Golden said after the game, according to the Associated Press.
A Title IX complaint was filed against the basketball coach on Sept. 27 and claimed that Golden had made unwanted sexual advances using Instagram along with sending photos and videos of his genitalia and requesting sexual favors.
While the nature of the claims is quite serious, Golden was given a cheer when he was introduced during pregame introductions ahead of Monday’s contest.
However, in one video posted to social media, a fan could be heard booing as the arena house lights came back on.
Golden called the reception he received “great” and said under the circumstances, “I appreciate it.”
“What’s personally getting me through this right now?” Golden said. “Respecting the situation, my family, my team, my coaching staff. We’re just continuing to attack it like we normally would every day.”
While Golden said he couldn’t address the specifics of the complaint, he did commend his staff and players for staying focused on the task of basketball.
The shocking allegations also included instances where Golden allegedly took photos of women and sent the pictures to them along with him allegedly showing up at locations where he knew they would be.
Golden is married and a father of two young boys.
In a statement over the weekend, Golden said that he was speaking with an attorney about defamation claims.
