UK Athletics’ assistant track and cross country coach Hakon DeVries has been suspended pending investigation by the university’s Office of Equal Opportunity.
University spokesperson Jay Blanton confirmed that DeVries has been suspended with pay.
DeVries recently completed his twelfth year with the Wildcats as assistant coach. He was initially hired by former track and field head coach Edrick Floreal, according to UK Athletics.
According to the university, the Office of Equal Opportunity “handles both internal and external complaints of discrimination, handles complaints of sexual misconduct, trains the University community on equal opportunity, [and] fosters a diverse and inclusive learning and working environment.”
This includes investigations of Title IX violations, which encompass both sexual harassment and sexual misconduct.
The suspension comes amid an ongoing federal sexual abuse lawsuit against the athletics department involving former head swim coach Lars Jorgensen. Jorgensen resigned in June 2023 after being named in the suit filed by former UK swimmers for both sexual abuse and rape allegations. The trial for the lawsuit is scheduled for June 2026 in Lexington.
“The university takes very seriously reports of inappropriate behavior,” Blanton said.
“Our Office of Equal Opportunity investigates thoroughly and recommends disciplinary measures depending on the findings and specifics of each case.”
