Minnesota associate AD Mike Ellis takes voluntary leave of absence

Minnesota associate athletic director Mike Ellis has voluntarily stepped away from the program after five anonymous complaints were filed against him.

The complaints were uncovered during an independent investigation of sexual harassment and discrimination in the athletic department, according to ESPN's Myron Medcalf, which resulted in the resignation of athletic director Norwood Teague last month.

The school released the following statement:

Mike Ellis is employed by the University of Minnesota. Since August 7, 2015, five anonymous reports have been received on the University's EthicsPoint reporting system in which Mike Ellis is a subject. Based on content, those reports have been submitted to the independent external counsel or other appropriate authority to investigate. The University asked Mr. Ellis to take voluntary time off, which he agreed to do, while the investigation of these matters was undertaken. Mr. Ellis has been cooperating fully.

There was one prior complaint against Mr. Ellis in January 2013. The status of that complaint is that it was investigated by central HR, there was no discipline, and the matter is closed. Under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, the University may not disclose additional information about the nature of this complaint.

Teague resigned in August after two women accused the athletic director of sexual harassment.