Probe launched into leak of ‘private’ photos of U. of Wisconsin women’s volleyball team

The University of Wisconsin and its police department have launched an investigation after private images and video of the women’s volleyball team were leaked online, officials announced.

The school’s athletic department confirmed the probe in a statement Wednesday night, saying it is “aware that private photos and video of UW volleyball student-athletes that were never intended to be shared publicly are being circulated digitally.”

Authorities immediately took action after players contacted university police when they became aware that the content was being shared online.

Officials did not provide further details other than to say that officers were “investigating multiple crimes, including sharing sensitive photos without consent.”

“The unauthorized sharing is a significant and wrongful invasion of the student-athletes’ privacy, including potential violations of university policies and criminal statutes,” the athletic department said.

Authorities immediately took action after players contacted University of Wisconsin police when they became aware that the content was being shared online.

“UWPD is not investigating the volleyball student athletes for wrong-doing in the matter,” officials continued. “Our top priority is supporting our student-athletes and we are providing them with the appropriate services and resources.”

While they did not offer additional information about the leaked content, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported one of the photos involved shows players posing with their sports bras raised. It was seemingly taken after the team clinched the Big Ten title in November 2021.

The Wisconsin Badger volleyball team is ranked fifth in the nation and is 13-3 with a 7-1 record in the Big Ten. Their next match is scheduled for Friday against Michigan State.