I agree, but I can see the concern about bad optics as well. Harvey was charged for a crime I'd guess many (if not most) teenage men have committed. He got unlucky in that he got caught and the charge was pursued. It shouldn't be a crime in my opinion.
But, because of his high rating, Harvey is going to get a lot of publicity. I could see a concern that the narrative will be that the only reason Brannen got his first 4-star guy is because of Harvey's criminal record. Perhaps there are concerns this will become a slippery slope of targeting high rated guys who have checkered pasts. The concern is the focus will be that we recruited a high-rated guy with a criminal record and the media will ignore the innocent nature of the "crime". Perhaps there is also concern about bad optics of forcing Hardnett out (regardless of if that is the case, I think the perception will be we forced Hardnett out if Harvey signs).
I'm starting to doubt Harvey will happen, the lack of action indicates that somebody higher up has concerns and is delaying/stopping the process. Apparently Harvey just unfollowed UC Men's Basketball on twitter as well (It was the only team basketball account he was following).