Bill Belichick’s UNC investigation cost revealed as $914K bill raises more questions about Michael Lombardi’s exit
UNC received bills of more than $914,000 from three law firms hired during the investigation, according to WRAL News reporters Brian Murphy and Joseph Ochoa. Barnes & Thornburg handled most of the work, charging the university more than $821,000, including expenses.
The inquiry also covered allegations involving possible drug use, inappropriate relationships and potential NCAA rule violations, according to WRAL News. UNC General Counsel Paul Newton said the investigation started after concerns were raised by a small group of former employees.
The review ended on September 17, when UNC announced that Steve Belichick, Bill Belichick’s son and the team’s defensive coordinator, would leave the program. He had already been on medical leave, and his resignation became effective on October 27.
Instead, the university said in a statement, “The investigation determined that certain actions demonstrated a disregard for Carolina’s values and standards of conduct. Speaking about the head coach, Roberts said, “Coach Belichick continues to have our support, the support of the administration and of the board [of trustees]. UNC did not publicly identify the people responsible for the conduct discussed in its findings. It also added, “The investigation also found that these actions were isolated in scope and not a systemic failure. Despite the departures and the questions surrounding the football program, UNC Chancellor Lee Roberts has continued to support Bill Belichick. He also made it clear that this support comes with expectations about conduct and behavior.