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In a stunning development, Minnesota State University Mankato football coach Todd Hoffner was arrested at his Eagle Lake home on Tuesday afternoon on allegations of child pornography, according to the Star Tribune.
The 46-year-old Hoffner was entering his fifth season with the Mavericks, and was apparently escorted from team facilities during Friday's practice. He is being held on suspicions of "the use of minors in a sexual performance" in addition to owning child pornography, according to the Blue Earth County Sheriff's Office. Hoffner has since been placed on administrative leave by the school while officials determine how to address the issue.
Assistant coach Aaron Keen will take over the team in Hoffner's absence, but this news comes at the absolute worst time for a group of players prepared to open their 2012 campaign. "The whole situation comes as a shock and is still a shock," Keen said Tuesday.
Police approached Hoffner's home on Tuesday after receiving a bothersome tip Monday, and took him into custody soon after a full search of the premises. Although more details of the investigation will surely be revealed soon, this is obviously disheartening news for both the football program and university.