In this country you are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, that is the staple and cornerstone of law in the US. So yes, he is innocent he has a right to be treated that way, that is not an inference it is fact, that’s why there are laws against slander and liable. The court of public opinion does not carry weight in court. Investigation, reason and doubt and testimony do.
Discipline from an employer doesn’t constitute guilt.
All men/women should hold those values dear and stand up to defend them when they are challenged.
Bonehead move, YES. HIS/HER bonehead move, end of story.