Former NFL and University of Michigan assistant football coach Matt Weiss has been charged in a shocking hacking scandal, accused of illegally accessing the computer accounts of thousands of college athletes to obtain intimate photos and videos.
According to an indictment filed in federal court in Detroit on Thursday, Weiss faces 14 counts of unauthorized computer access and 10 counts of identity theft. The former Michigan co-offensive coordinator allegedly gained access to databases from over 100 colleges and universities between 2015 and 2023, targeting more than 2,000 athletes.
CNN reports that Weiss specifically sought out female athletes, selecting victims based on their school affiliation, athletic history, and physical characteristics. His goal, prosecutors say, was to steal private images and videos meant only for intimate partners.
Weiss, who worked with the Baltimore Ravens for over a decade under coach John Harbaugh before joining Michigan in 2021 to work for Harbaugh’s brother, Jim Harbaugh, was fired in 2023 after refusing to cooperate with a university investigation into his computer access.
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Authorities had been investigating Weiss for two years, and his Ann Arbor home was searched by police in January 2023, just before his dismissal. At the time, he claimed he was cooperating and expected a resolution soon.
Despite repeated attempts, Weiss’ attorney, Doug Mullkoff, has not responded to requests for comment. A date for his initial court appearance has yet to be determined.
“Our office will move aggressively to prosecute computer hacking to protect the private accounts of our citizens,” acting U.S. Attorney Julie Beck stated, signaling a tough legal battle ahead for Weiss.
