URI: Indicted Tennis Coach Passed Background Check

KINGSTON, R.I. -- Following his indictment in a sweeping college admissions scam on Tuesday, University of Rhode Island officials said Thursday evening that the women's tennis coach passed a criminal background check before he was hired in August 2018.

Gordon Ernst was named Tuesday in "Operation Varsity Blues," which is being called the largest college admissions scandal ever seen in the U.S. Several high-profile celebrities, including Lori Loughlin and Felicity Huffman, were charged with making large bribes to ensure their children were accepted into prestigious universities.

On Thursday, URI released a second statement saying that "there were no indications whatsoever of any personnel concerns, violations of admissions policies or any other issues related to Ernst" at the time of his hiring. The full statement can be read below.

Prior to hiring Gordon Ernst in August 2018, the University conducted a criminal background check, which we do for all prospective employees. That background check showed no criminal history. The University also reached out to his references and was able to reach three out of the four references he provided. The three gave him strong and positive recommendations. In addition, the URI athletic director personally called Georgetown’s athletic director in July 2018 and received a positive reference check from him. There were absolutely no indications whatsoever of any personnel concerns, violations of admissions policies or any other issues related to coach Ernst.

According to the first statement released on Tuesday, Ernst's recent hiring meant he had no part in recruiting players. He was placed on administrative leave after the indictment was announced.

READ MORE:

• URI Tennis Coach Named In College Cheating Scandal
• 'Operation Varsity Blues': College Cheating Scheme Names Dozens