Jim Harbaugh Added to Matt Weiss Hacking Scandal Lawsuit
In a shocking development, former University of Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh has been added to a lawsuit stemming from the hacking scandal involving his former assistant Matt Weiss. The civil litigation, which was filed in December 2022, alleges that Harbaugh and others knew about Weiss's involvement in digital hacking but allowed him to continue working in a playoff game just weeks later.
According to the amended complaint, the university's delay in taking action to protect students after discovering Weiss's misconduct sends a clear message: student welfare was secondary. "The university's delay in taking meaningful protective action until after a high-stakes game sends a clear message: Student welfare was secondary," said attorney Parker Stinar, who is leading a class-action lawsuit based on Weiss's alleged misconduct.
The claims against Harbaugh and others are likely to claim negligent supervision of Weiss throughout his time at Michigan. While the specific allegations against Harbaugh and others have not been made public yet, it is clear that the lawsuit aims to hold those in positions of power accountable for their actions or lack thereof.
Harbaugh's reaction to the situation has been one of shock and concern. During a press conference at the annual meetings in March, he expressed his distress when asked about the scandal, saying "I'm shocked. Completely shocked. Disturbed." The question now is whether this litigation will eventually spread to Harbaugh's current team, the Chargers.
The Ravens, where Harbaugh worked on John Harbaugh's staff before taking a job with Jim Harbaugh at Michigan, are also potentially in the crosshairs of the lawsuit. If evidence emerges showing that the Ravens knew or should have known about Weiss's hacking activities, particularly if it involved using any equipment owned by the team, then the litigation may expand to include Harbaugh's time with the Ravens.
The situation has left many wondering how such a serious breach of trust could occur under the radar for so long. The fact that Harbaugh and others allowed Weiss to continue working in a playoff game raises serious questions about the university's handling of the situation and its prioritization of student welfare.