Howard Football Coach Accused of Threats, Verbal Abuse Put on Leave

An anonymous letter publicly aired allegations that coach Ron Prince created a toxic culture

The head coach of Howard University's football team has been put on administrative leave amid accusations that he threatened, intimidated and verbally abused players.

The university announced coach Ron Prince was on leave "effective immediately" in a letter Wednesday.

The accusations went public when an anonymous letter was posted on the website HBCU Gameday in early October. The writer said the head coach at Howard was "hostile and abusive" and wanted to remain anonymous out of fear of retribution.

Prince allegedly sent injured players home without treatment and created an atmosphere of fear, threatening that players would lose their scholarships, the letter said.

HBCU Gameday reported the letter was written by a frustrated parent.

Prince was named the head football coach at Howard just this year. He has extensive experience in college and professional football, including terms with Detroit Lions and at the University of Michigan.

After the release of the letter, Howard said it would not tolerate abuse or threats. The school said they were committed to completing an investigation into the allegations.

"Howard University is committed to ensuring our athletic programs reflect Howard's core mission and values and to ensuring the well-being and success of all student athletes," the letter read.

The director of football operations will take over as interim coach.

It's the latest setback for a team struggling through a 1-8 season in Prince's first year.

Multiple players this season have announced they are transferring.

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