USF investigating accusation that coach hit player

Dec 17, 2009 - 12:43 AM TAMPA, Fla.(AP) -- The University of South Florida has retained a person from outside the school to assist with an investigation of the accusation that football coach Jim Leavitt struck one of his players in the locker room.

The school announced Wednesday that an expert specializing in workplace issues is part of the review that began after AOL FanHouse reported Leavitt grabbed sophomore Joel Miller by the throat and hit him in the face twice during halftime of a game on Nov. 21.

Leavitt has strongly denied the accusation.

The investigation was launched by school president Judy Genshaft and athletic director Doug Woolard. The university said "external expert" Thomas Gonzalez is working with USF associate vice president Sandy Lovins on the review.