Ex-Pats Defensive Coordinator Denies Sexual Assault Allegation

The Detroit Lions are standing behind their new coach and former New England Patriots defensive coordinator Matt Patricia following the resurfacing of a 1996 sexual assault allegation.

Patricia and a friend were indicted by a Texas grand jury on a count of aggravated sexual assault nearly 22 years ago, the Detroit News reported. The indictment alleged that Patricia and the friend burst into a hotel room in South Padre Island, where they sexually assaulted a sleeping woman.

Despite the indictment, the case never went to trial and was dismissed after the victim felt she could not face the pressure or stress of a trial.

In a statement, Patricia said he was falsely accused and never had the opportunity to defend himself.

"I find it incredibly unfair, disappointing, and frustrating that this story would resurface now with the only purpose being to damage my character and reputation. I firmly maintain my innocence, as I have always done. I would never condone any of the behavior that was alleged and will always respect and protect the rights of anyone who has been harassed or is the victim of violence. My priorities remain the same – to move forward and strive to be the best coach, teacher, and man that I can possibly be,” he said.

Also through a statement, the Lions organization said, "As an organization, The Detroit Lions take allegations regarding sexual assault or harassment seriously. Coach Patricia was the subject of a standard pre-employment background check which did not disclose this issue. We have spoken to Coach Patricia about this at length as well as the attorney who represented him at the time. Based upon everything we have learned, we believe and have accepted Coach Patricia’s explanation and we will continue to support him. We will continue to work with our players and the NFL to further awareness of and protections for those individuals who are the victims of sexual assault or violence.”

Patricia was on the Patriots coaching staff from 2004 to 2017 and served as the defensive coordinator since 2012.

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