Bethune-Cookman Issues Statement On Allegations against Brian Jenkins

Just days after it was reported that current Alabama State head coach Brian Jenkins was accused of rules violations and mistreating players and coaches while at Bethune-Cookman, the school announced Monday that it has launched an investigation into the claims.

According to the university, B-CU acknowledged that school officials were aware of possible rules violations committed by the football program last fall and notified the MEAC and NCAA.

“B-CU has also launched an internal investigation which is ongoing in an effort to ensure and maintain compliance,” the school said in a news release.

“The University will have no further comment until the investigation has been completed.”

The Montgomery Advertiser reported that former players alleged Jenkins provided improper benefits, improper housing and repeatedly exceeded weekly practice limits during his tenure at Bethune-Cookman.

He was also accused of failing to pay assistants and bullying staff and players, including an incident where he allegedly threatened a player with a knife during a team meal.

Alabama State interim athletic director Melvin Hines said he was aware of the allegations before before hiring Jenkins on Dec.16 to replace longtime head coach Reggie Barlow.

“I talked with coach Jenkins about those issues, and he was very up front with me about everything,” Hines told the newspaper. “My view on that is that it’s all personnel matters from his previous workplace, and this is a fresh start.”

Jenkins has not commented on the allegations.