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Fisk University president on leave after protection order

Posted at 3:33 PM, Aug 12, 2020
and last updated 2020-08-12 16:33:38-04

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Fisk University placed President Kevin Rome on leave Monday after learning a judge granted a temporary order of protection that an acquaintance sought against him.

A Davidson County magistrate judge signed the temporary order on Friday that forbids Rome from having contact with the man.

Rome’s attorney, Jay Steed, issued a statement saying his client has done nothing wrong and noting that Rome has not been charged with any crime.

Fisk issued a statement saying Rome has been placed on leave until the matter is resolved.

“As this is a personal matter not connected to the school, we cannot comment on the specifics,” the statement reads.

In general, anyone can ask for a temporary order of protection. If the order is granted, it generally lasts until there can be a hearing, usually within 10 days. At that point the accused has a chance to defend himself and the judge determines whether the order should be extended or the case dismissed.