Why Was Michigan Coach Sherrone Moore Fired AND Detained? The Shocking Truth Revealed!

 

On December 10, 2025, Michigan dismissed head football coach Sherrone Moore after an internal university investigation found credible evidence that he had engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a staff member. Hours later, during the investigation of a reported complaint in Pittsfield Township, police detained Moore and transported him to the Washtenaw County Jail.

Athletic Director Warde Manuel released a detailed public statement explaining why the university took swift action and why the violation met the threshold for termination with cause. The firing marks one of the most serious and sudden leadership changes in recent Michigan football history, coming as the Wolverines prepare for their postseason bowl game.

Michigan Explains Why Sherrone Moore Was Fired

In a public statement, AD Warde Manuel said Sherrone Moore was “terminated for cause, effective immediately” following an internal investigation.
The university determined that Moore engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a staff member—behavior officials described as a clear violation of institutional policy.

Manuel emphasized that Michigan Athletics maintains “zero tolerance” for conduct that compromises safety, fairness, or integrity within the athletic department. He added that all university employees, regardless of position, are expected to follow the same behavioral standards.

Citing confidentiality rules, Michigan did not identify the staff member involved. The school also did not reveal whether the relationship was internally reported or discovered through routine compliance procedures.
Moore served as head coach for two seasons, compiling a 17–8 record.

Associate head coach Biff Poggi was appointed interim head coach for the remainder of the season. He is expected to lead the Wolverines in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl against Texas on December 31.

Police Detained Moore During an Assault Investigation

Shortly after the firing, police detained Moore in connection with an alleged assault that occurred in the Ann Arbor–Saline Road area.
Authorities confirmed that Saline Police initially located Moore, then transferred him to Pittsfield Township officers leading the investigation.

Pittsfield Township Police stated that the incident “does not appear to be random” and that there is no ongoing threat to the public. They also confirmed that one suspect was being held at the Washtenaw County Jail pending review by prosecutors.

According to the latest official update, no formal charges have been filed. Moore’s detention status and the possibility of charges depend on the results of the prosecutor's review.
Police have not confirmed whether the alleged assault is connected in any way to the university’s internal findings.

The Washtenaw County Prosecutor’s Office has not announced a timeline for a charging decision. Michigan officials declined further comments, citing the active law-enforcement investigation.

Impact on Michigan Football and What Comes Next

Moore’s firing and detention have had an immediate impact on the program.
Less than two years after Jim Harbaugh’s departure, Michigan is now launching another coaching search—creating instability during a period when roster retention and recruiting cycles are especially tight.

Recruits and current players may seek clarity on the program’s future leadership.
Boosters and university stakeholders are also expecting a decisive and transparent response to maintain confidence in the athletic department’s oversight.

For Moore, the consequences are both professional and legal.
Being fired for cause voids his contractual protections, and the pending assault investigation adds to the uncertainty surrounding his coaching future. More details are expected as law enforcement continues reviewing the evidence gathered on December 10.

For now, the question remains: Why was Michigan coach Sherrone Moore fired and detained by police?
As AD Warde Manuel addresses the policy violation and police continue their investigation, Michigan faces a pivotal moment while preparing for the postseason and the search for new leadership.

Quick Summary (For Your Reference)

Q1: Why did Michigan fire Sherrone Moore?

The university says Moore violated policy by engaging in an inappropriate relationship with a staff member. Officials called the behavior unacceptable and fired him for cause.

Q2: Why did police detain Sherrone Moore?

Police detained Moore during the investigation of an alleged assault in Pittsfield Township. He was taken to Washtenaw County Jail for prosecutor review.

Q3: What charges have been filed?

As of the latest update, no formal charges have been filed. Prosecutors are reviewing the evidence.

Q4: Who is leading Michigan football now?

Associate head coach Biff Poggi has been named interim head coach for the bowl game and transition period.

Q5: Have police linked the alleged assault to the university’s investigation?

Police have not confirmed any connection. The internal investigation and the criminal investigation are being handled separately.