ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — Attorneys for former Syracuse assistant basketball coach Bernie Fine say he’s dropping his defamation lawsuit against ESPN.
Fine was suing for defamation stemming from broadcasts aired by ESPN. The broadcaster reported claims by two former ball boys that Fine had molested them more than two decades ago. Fine was fired in November 2011, days after the broadcasts.
The 67-year-old Fine, who was investigated by federal prosecutors, was never charged and has maintained his innocence.
William Albert, spokesman for the Harris Beach law firm, says Fine filed notice of dismissal because he wants to put the turmoil behind him and concentrate on his future and his family’s.
