Fisk University has placed its president, Dr. Kevin Rome Sr. on leave after a man allegedly said he was drugged and threatened by Rome, reports News4Nashville.
The university did not comment on the specifics of the incident but said its provost Dr. Vann Newkirk is fulfilling presidential duties on an interim basis while the allegations, which are “unrelated to the school” are investigated.
According to a restraining order, the man said he and Rome were dating after meeting on the app “Grindr” in May, but in June, Rome and another man allegedly “broke into his place, wrote homophobic things on the walls, stole things and tampered with the plumbing to cause sewage to destroy [his] apartment.””
Rome’s Attorney Jay Steed called the accusations “false” and said Rome “categorically denies the allegations” and “plans to fight the case in court and clear his good name.”
“It is important to note that these are merely civil accusations,” stated Steed to News4Nashville. “Dr. Rome has not been charged with any crime. Dr. Rome is most concerned for his family, friends and the community at Fisk University for any harm they are experiencing as a result of these spurious charges. He expresses his deepest thanks to all those who have reached out to him over the past few days expressing their support.”
Rome has served as Fisk University’s president since moving to Nashville in 2017.
