**Title:** Notre Dame Coach Marcus Freeman Cleared of Battery Allegations
**Meta Description:** Notre Dame’s Marcus Freeman has been cleared of battery charges following an incident at a wrestling match involving his son.
**URL Slug:** marcus-freeman-battery-allegations-cleared
**Headline:** Notre Dame’s Marcus Freeman Exonerated in Battery Incident at Wrestling Match
Marcus Freeman, head coach of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, has been cleared of battery allegations stemming from an incident at his son’s high school wrestling match. The St. Joseph’s County Prosecutor’s Office in Indiana announced on Monday that no criminal charges would be filed against Freeman after a thorough investigation.
The incident occurred during the Al Smith Wrestling Invitational at Mishawaka High School, where Freeman’s son, Vinny, was competing. Following a match, New Prairie High School assistant coach Chris Fleeger reported that Freeman had pushed him. The Mishawaka Police Department responded to the complaint and conducted an investigation, which included reviewing video surveillance and interviewing multiple witnesses.
According to the prosecutor’s office, the investigation concluded that no criminal battery took place. “After reviewing the Mishawaka Police Department’s investigation into this incident, the Prosecutor’s Office has determined that no criminal battery occurred. As such, no criminal charges will be filed against Mr. Freeman,” the office stated.
The altercation reportedly involved Freeman and Penn coach Brad Harper exchanging words with Fleeger as they exited the gym. Freeman’s wife, Joanna, was also mentioned as having a verbal confrontation with Fleeger before police intervened.
In a statement, Notre Dame defended Freeman, asserting that he did not physically engage with anyone during the incident. “Vinny Freeman was verbally accosted during and after his wrestling match by a local wrestling coach. Marcus and Joanna Freeman intervened and removed Vinny from the situation. At no point did Coach Freeman physically engage with anyone,” the statement read. The university expressed confidence that the police report, which includes video evidence, would exonerate Freeman and demonstrate that the accusations were unfounded.
Freeman is expected to return to lead the Fighting Irish for the 2026 season, continuing his role as a prominent figure in college football.
**FAQ Section:**
**Q: What were the allegations against Marcus Freeman?**
A: Marcus Freeman was accused of battery after an incident at his son’s wrestling match, but the prosecutor’s office determined that no criminal battery occurred, and no charges were filed.