Sophia Michaels
In December 2022, former Coppin State University basketball player Ibn Williams filed a lawsuit against assistant basketball coach Lucian Brownlee for sexual misconduct, according to the Baltimore Brew. Williams alleged that Brownlee had posed as a female student online and catfished him in order to obtain explicit photos. He also claimed that Brownlee had blackmailed him into participating in and filming a sexual act. Brownlee has claimed that he too was blackmailed, but Williams’ lawyers have refuted this. The lawsuit states that Juan Dixon, another Coppin State staff member, failed to properly investigate Williams’ claims. After Williams’ father set up a meeting, Williams met with Dixon and other staff members to seek help, but the lawsuit alleges that Dixon said he was “helpless to address the drug issue in any meaningful way” (via the Baltimore Brew). Additionally, Williams claims that the coaching staff was aware of Brownlee’s mental health issues. The lawsuit is still ongoing.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, help is available. Visit the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network website or contact RAINN’s National Helpline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).
