Former Michigan football coach Sherrone Moore received 18 months' probation and a fine exceeding $1,000 this week following a plea deal regarding two misdemeanors. The charges stemmed from an incident at a staff member's apartment amid an inappropriate relationship that led to his abrupt firing from the Wolverines program in December. Moore pleaded no contest to trespassing and malicious use of a telecommunications device.

District Court Judge Cedric Simpson opted against jail time, stressing that Moore had "no right to do what you did" to the staff member, who was placed in fear. The judge specifically praised Moore's wife, Kelli, for her support shown during police interactions, stating she was the person saving him from harsher penalties. Moore was barred from contact with the woman and must continue counseling.

Prosecutors dropped more severe initial allegations, including stalking, after additional facts emerged, such as the woman providing Moore with her door code. Moore, who was earning over $5 million annually before his dismissal, thanked his attorney and wife in a brief court statement. The sentencing concludes the criminal portion of the highly public downfall for the coach who led Michigan to a national championship season.

The woman involved has since publicly accused the University of Michigan of failing to protect her from years of alleged exploitation. Her employment contract with the university was not renewed following the investigation, which Michigan commissioned the firm Jenner & Block to conduct.