West Virginia Assistant Coach Arrested on Felony Strangulation Charge

West Virginia assistant football coach Noel Devine was arrested over the weekend and is facing a felony strangulation charge.

Devine, 38, was booked Sunday at the North Central Regional Jail. According to jail records, his bond has been set at $40,000, and his preliminary hearing is scheduled for September 23.

Following news of the arrest, West Virginia head coach issued a statement announcing that Devine has been immediately and indefinitely removed from his coaching responsibilities.

“Upon receiving information of the arrest, I have immediately and indefinitely put Noel Devine on leave from the Mountaineer football coaching staff. Any future decision on his status will be determined after more information becomes available.”

Devine joined the West Virginia coaching staff in 2025 and has worked with the program as an assistant running backs coach and offensive analyst.

Before beginning his coaching career, Devine was one of the most recognizable players in West Virginia football history. The former Mountaineer running back enjoyed a standout collegiate career in Morgantown and remains one of the school’s all-time leading rushers.

For now, Devine’s status with the football program remains uncertain as the legal process moves forward. West Virginia has made it clear that he will remain on leave indefinitely while the university gathers additional information.

Devine’s preliminary hearing on September 23 is expected to provide the next significant development in the case.

As with any criminal allegation, Devine is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.