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Harvard University diving coach on leave after alleged sexual misconduct

Harvard University's head diving coach was placed on leave after allegations of sexual misconduct involving young female swimmers.

Chris Heaton was described in a class-action lawsuit, which claims the 31-year-old sent explicit pictures to "young female athletes" at a private academy where he had previously worked.

Heaton was not named as a defendant in the suit.

"On numerous occasions, Chris Heaton solicited nude pictures from female athletes at Ripfest," the suit says. "Heaton sent pictures of his penis to young female athletes."

A Harvard spokesperson said Heaton was placed on leave, pending a review by the University.

“Harvard Athletics was unaware of any allegations of misconduct when Mr. Heaton was hired as the Head Coach for Diving in August 2018," Harvard University spokesperson Rachael Dane said. "Upon learning of allegations of sexual misconduct from media reports, Harvard immediately placed Mr. Heaton on leave, pending a review by Harvard University.”

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