Mike MacIntyre releases statement defending actions with Tumpkin

Colorado has been in the news for the wrong reasons in recent weeks, and now Mike MacIntyre has broken his silence.

The Buffaloes' head coach released a statement Thursday, addressing both his knowledge of the situation involving former assistant Joe Tumpkin, and the handling of it once information had been made public.

"Upon hearing the allegations by Joe Tumpkin's girlfriend, my initial reaction, and foremost concern was for her safety," MacIntyre said in a statement. "I reiterated that to her several times and confirmed that she was in fact, safe.

"In the same conversation, I was clear in communicating to her my obligation as a university employee to notify my superior, which is exactly what I did. I can say I did everything necessary to ensure this individual's statements were relayed immediately."

Tumpkin was suspended on Jan. 6 after a restraining order had been issued at the request of his ex-girlfriend. Tumpkin was later charged with eight different counts of assault, and resigned on Jan. 27.

Related: Colorado apologizes to ex-assistant coach's alleged domestic violence victim

MacIntyre clarified he did in fact have two conversations with Tumpkin's ex-girlfriend; the first being the initial report of abuse, and the second to clarify that MacIntyre had informed his superiors.

According to MacIntyre, Tumpkin was given the role of defensive play-calling for Colorado's bowl game because there was no official police report or legal complaint.

"I want to be clear I unequivocally endorse the chancellor's plans for improving CU's policies and practices in dealing with matters of domestic violence and pledge that I and the entire football coaching staff will work to carry out our obligations under university policy," MacIntyre said.