The case against former University of Michigan co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Matt Weiss has taken a significant turn, as a federal judge has denied a motion to dismiss 10 aggravated identity theft counts against him. Weiss, 42, was indicted in March for allegedly stealing private videos and photos of over 3,300 student-athletes, mostly women, from more than 100 universities across the country. The allegations against Weiss are severe, and if convicted, he faces a substantial amount of time in federal prison.
According to federal documents, Weiss hacked into the accounts of the student-athletes to view and download personal or intimate photographs and videos. He also took notes commenting on the students' bodies and sexual preferences. The sheer scope of the alleged crimes is staggering, with Weiss accused of using stolen passwords to gain access to the private accounts. His attorneys attempted to argue that using stolen passwords is akin to using a stolen key to unlock a door, and therefore does not constitute aggravated identity theft. However, U.S. District Court Judge Nancy G. Edmunds disagreed with this assessment.
The fact that using a house key is not identity theft only reflects that the statute was not written to cover house keys -- it does not show that using another person's login credentials without permission cannot be part of an identity-theft crime.
Judge Edmunds' ruling highlights the severity of the allegations against Weiss. The 10 aggravated identity theft counts carry the most significant federal prison time if Weiss is convicted. In addition to these charges, Weiss also faces 14 counts of unauthorized access. Furthermore, he is being sued in a separate case by more than 70 women who claim that he illegally hacked into their private accounts and stole their personal photos. The cumulative effect of these allegations paints a damning picture of Weiss' alleged actions.
Weiss was -fired by Michigan in January 2023, after spending the previous two seasons on Jim Harbaugh's staff as an assistant. The former co-offensive coordinator's alleged crimes also date back to his time with the Baltimore Ravens, where he coached for more than a decade. The fact that Weiss' alleged actions may have spanned multiple institutions and years raises questions about the extent of his wrongdoing and the potential harm caused to the victims.
The consequences of Weiss' alleged actions are severe. If convicted, he faces more than 70 years in prison. The victims of his alleged crimes are also seeking justice, with many coming forward to share their stories and seek compensation. The case against Weiss serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting personal information and the severe consequences of identity theft.
The case against Matt Weiss is a complex and disturbing one, highlighting the need for increased awareness and protection against identity theft. As the legal proceedings continue, it is essential to remember the victims of these alleged crimes and the severe consequences that Weiss faces if convicted. The outcome of this case will have significant implications for the victims, the institutions involved, and the broader community.
Original: ESPN
Image: ESPN
Written by Npsports
