But Thiemann's possession of the material violates the Divinity School's official policy regarding computer usage.

According to the policy, storing material that is "inappropriate, obscene, bigoted or abusive" on University computers is prohibited. The policy also limits computer use to activities "related to the School's mission of education, research and public service."

As part of his resignation as dean in the fall, Thiemann announced that he would take a one-year sabbatical from his faculty position--he is O'Brian Professor of Divinity--and return to teaching and researching in 2000.

University officials have been reluctant to discuss the details of the case.

"When it comes to personal matters in people's lives, I have a very strict policy that I just don't comment," President Neil L. Rudenstine said.

University spokesperson Joe Wrinn said in a statement that Thiemann and Rudenstine together "agreed that it would be in the best interests of the Divinity School for the dean to resign."

There is no indication that the University is planning any further investigation into the matter and no indication that a criminal investigation will be undertaken.