LSU Releases Statement Regarding John Chavis' Contract

It was reported on Thursday that LSU has admitted to making alterations to former defensive coordinator John Chavis’ contract after it was signed in 2012.

Here is a statement from LSU counsel Bob Barton regarding Chavis' contract:

quote:

---

“The ‘alteration’ issue is nothing more than an attempt to divert attention from the real issues. LSU and Mr. Chavis had a valid employment agreement from 2009 until he left the University at the end of 2014. There were multiple amendments to the employment agreement during that time, including the 2012 amendment that Mr. Chavis claims was altered. Importantly, the 2012 contract was ratified in 2013 by a Memorandum of Understanding that extended Mr. Chavis’ contract with LSU by another year, through the end of 2015.

The change that occurred to the 2012 amendment was an innocent, unintentional and immaterial change. Mr. Chavis’ buyout obligation would exist under either reading of the liquidated damages clause, and the alleged “alteration” provided absolutely no benefit to LSU. Just as Mr. Chavis was entitled to his generous salary and other benefits under that agreement, LSU is entitled to enforce the liquidated damages provision of the agreement.

The Court vindicated LSU’s position on its motion to compel and ordered Mr. Chavis to produce records that he has previously withheld. LSU looks forward to obtaining those records and moving this matter toward resolution.”

---