Honolulu Star-Advertiser

Monday, July 15, 2024 83° Today's Paper


Top News

USC coach arrested in Waikiki in college bribery sweep

1/1
Swipe or click to see more

COURTESY USC

The FBI in Hawaii arrested Jovan Vavic, a water polo coach at the University of Southern California, wanted in connection with a massive college admissions bribery scheme this morning in Waikiki.

The FBI in Hawaii arrested Jovan Vavic, a water polo coach at the University of Southern California wanted in connection with a massive college admissions bribery scheme, this morning in Waikiki.

FBI spokesman Jason White confirmed Vavic was arrested at about 6:30 a.m. in Waikiki today without incident. Vavic is expected to appear in court at 1 p.m.

USC announced today that it has fired Vavic, as well as senior associate athletic director Donna Heinel, and that it is conducting its own internal investigation into illegal activity and will take additional action, if necessary.

“USC is in the process of identifying any funds received by the university in connection with this alleged scheme,” the university said in a statement. “Additionally, the university is reviewing its admissions processes broadly to ensure that such actions do not occur going forward.”

The USC women’s water polo team is scheduled to play the University of Hawaii Saturday at the Duke Kahanamoku Aquatic Complex at UH.

Federal agents have arrested dozens of individuals involved in a nationwide conspiracy that facilitated cheating on college entrance exams and the admission of students to elite universities as purported athletic recruits in multiple states. They were charged in documents unsealed today in federal court in Boston.

Athletic coaches from Yale, Stanford, USC, Wake Forest and Georgetown, and Hollywood stars Felicity Felicity Huffman and Lori Loughlin, among others, are implicated, as well as parents and exam administrators.

Vavic is charged with conspiracy to commit racketeering.

By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the Terms of Service. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our guidelines. Having trouble with comments? Learn more here.