Michigan professor accused of sexual misconduct, on leave

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ANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) — A violin professor had taken a leave of absence from the University of Michigan before a published report revealed accusations of sexual misconduct over several decades.

The Detroit News reports Stephen Shipps went on leave Dec. 7. The departure preceded a story published Dec. 10 by the Michigan Daily, in which students accused him of sexual relationships, unwanted touching and inappropriate statements.

The university confirmed his leave but declined comment to The News. Shipps' attorney and spokesman also both declined comment.

Shipps, hired by Michigan in 1989, is the second professor to depart recently amid sexual misconduct allegations. A student filed a lawsuit earlier this year against David Daniels.

Daniels, an opera singer, denied the allegations, as well as another made by a performer nearly a decade ago.