It’s been a tough week for University of Missouri athletics.
First, running back Damarea Crockett was suspended following an arrest for marijuana possession:
Missouri freshman running back Damarea Crockett was arrested early Sunday on suspicion of possession of 35 grams or less of marijuana. The arrest occurred at 4:17 a.m. in the AV14 Parking Lot on Ashland Road, MU Police Maj. Brian Weimer said.
At Monday’s news conference, Missouri head coach Barry Odom said, in accordance with team policy, Crockett is suspended from Friday’s season finale against Arkansas. Odom suspended sophomore defensive lineman Terry Beckner Jr. in January for the same offense.
“With all the disciplinary issues, (we’ll) address it internally, handle it that way,” Odom said. “But if you have an arrest during the season, you’re suspended for at least the next game.” Crockett was listed as the No. 1 running back on the depth chart released Monday before Odom and his staff had full knowledge of the incident, but Odom said junior running back Ish Witter and freshman Nate Strong will receive most of the carries against the Razorbacks.
Now, a tutor claims she has taken courses for Missouri athletes.
When reached by The Star, Kumar confirmed the authenticity of the post, in which she alleges that she took or assisted with entrance exams and completed classes for student-athletes. She also apologized to her friends for her role in the alleged academic fraud.
Here is the full text of Kumar’s social-media post:
“I have knowingly participated in academic dishonesty in my position as a tutor at the University of Missouri-Columbia Intercollegiate Athletic department, which is not limited to assistance with assignments. I have taken and assisted with entrance assessment, completed entire courses, and I been present to provide assistance with online assessments. It was encouraged, promoted, and supported by at least two Academic Coordinators for athletes in revenue generating sports, however, the wide spread desperation to succeed by other student-athletes at the bottom of an inverted pyramid of the organization’s construct cross (sic) multiple sports. I self-reported on November 2 and naively wanted to close the door on the manner after seeking counsel. I immediately resigned from my position on November 7 prior to meeting with a member for compliance, general counsel, and an individual that reports to the chancellor.
“You are able to see this post because I respect and honor your thoughts of me. I wanted you to hear it from me first. I apologize for disappointing you.
“I just can’t carry this burden anymore.”
BREAKING: Former tutor Yolanda Kumar says she took courses for student-athletes at #Mizzou. https://t.co/Wa3bwzQXAr pic.twitter.com/b6zxx5QrsR
— Jeff Rosen (@jeff_rosen88) November 23, 2016
