| | Associated Press
MINNEAPOLIS -- The woman who reported academic fraud in the University of Minnesota's men's basketball program might plead guilty to her role in helping students cheat and become a key federal witness, according to a report.
Former tutor Jan Gangelhoff admitted in March 1999 that she
completed more than 400 pieces of course work for about 20 players.
Her revelations led to an investigation that has so far resulted in
former coach Clem Haskins' ouster, university-imposed sanctions and
inquiries by federal authorities and the NCAA.
KSTP-TV reported Thursday night that, according to sources the station did not identify, Gangelhoff faces mail fraud charges because some of the work she completed included correspondence courses.
The sources told the station that federal prosecutors would
likely use the charges as leverage to get Gangelhoff to testify in
a possible federal case against Haskins and former academic
counselor Alonzo Newby.
Gangelhoff would likely plead guilty to at least one count, receive leniency in sentencing and agree to testify before a federal grand jury, the sources told the station.
KSTP-TV said the plea agreement would be finalized this week.
The university and the NCAA allege that both Haskins and Newby
knew about Gangelhoff's work for players.
Newby steered academically challenged students to her, and
Haskins rewarded her with team trips, investigators claim. They
also say Newby helped get grades or classes changed to keep several
players eligible, and that Haskins told players to lie after the
story broke.
Haskins admitted -- after repeated denials -- that he paid Gangelhoff $3,000 in cash to tutor a student.
Newby has remained silent about his role.
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