Florida Bar Employee on Leave After Racist, Violent Messages to Miami Player

The Florida Bar has placed an employee on administrative leave following an investigation into racist and violent messages sent online to University of Miami Hurricanes football player Damon Wilson II. The messages were reportedly sent after the Hurricanes' victory over the Florida State Seminoles.

Kade McLendon, identified as the Florida Bar employee in question, is accused of sending multiple messages to Wilson II that included racial slurs, references to slavery, and threats of sexual violence against the player and his family. The Florida Bar stated that the messages were "ethically and morally reprehensible" and violated the organization's social media policy.

"As the internal investigation continues, we are committed to enforcing our policies and procedures while making sure that any due process rights are protected," The Florida Bar said in a statement.

According to reports, McLendon's social media accounts, including LinkedIn and Instagram, were deactivated by Monday night. Screenshots from his LinkedIn profile indicated he had been employed as a computer technician for the Florida Bar since June 2024 and was a graduate of Florida State University.

Wilson II shared the messages on his Instagram Story, describing them as a "glimpse into the life of a black student athlete." The content of the messages reportedly included homophobic slurs, rape threats directed at Wilson II and his family, and repeated use of the N-word. One message referred to Wilson II as "farming equipment."

The Miami Hurricanes defeated the Florida State Seminoles in a double-overtime game with a score of 43-35. Wilson II is in his first season with the Miami Hurricanes, having transferred to the team after playing for Georgia and Missouri.

Offensive lineman Ryan Rodriguez expressed solidarity with Wilson II, stating to the Associated Press, "He is my brother and I embrace him."