Miami College Students Suspended From School Amid Sexual Battery Charges

Two University of Miami students are facing serious charges after being arrested for the alleged sexual battery of a 17-year-old female. The two football players were booked and held on a $10,000 bond, according to an article in the Miami Herald.  The students allegedly bought the young woman alcoholic drinks before taking her back to a dorm room. Authorities further allege that the students then repeatedly performed sexual acts on her, without her consent. The alleged victim first made her complaint to university police, who turned the investigation over to Coral Gables Police Department.

The young men have not yet been tried or convicted of any crime at this point, but they are already dealing with some serious consequences. Aside from a suspension from the football team, they were also suspended from the university and barred from entering the campus. Blake James is the University of Miami athletic director. He is quoted in the article as stating, “Any allegation of a sexual assault is extremely serious, and the university will not tolerate conduct that threatens the sanctity and safety of our students and our campus. We hold all of our students — especially the student athletes — to the highest standards of a moral conduct. The University is committed to maintaining a safe campus environment for all.”

In another college related incident, the Tallahassee Democrat is reporting that a 17-year-old Florida A&M student was arrested on charges of sexual assault against another student. According to the report, the defendant allegedly invited the young woman to his apartment, where he is accused of holding her down and having sex with her.

College Students in the Criminal Justice System

This situation is a prime example of the negative impact that sex crime charges can have on a defendant. Both of the young men from the University of Miami were reportedly active players on the university’s football team and one of them was expected to start during the coming season. Now, all three of these college students are facing what is probably the toughest challenge of their lives, with the looming possibility of extended jail sentences.

College students are particularly vulnerable to criminal matters. With their entire lives ahead of them, their futures may be gravely affected by one bad mistake or lapse in judgment. In these cases, the effects are being felt before a trial is even commenced. In situations where the state does secure a conviction, future educational and employment opportunities are at risk. In addition, sex crime convictions can result in a lifetime of stigma as a registered sex offender. For the protection of their college student’s future and freedom, parents should secure the services of an experienced lawyer who will fight for the well being of their child.

If you are the parent of a college student who has been accused of a sex crime, contact Ratzan & Faccidomo, LLC at 305-600-3519 for a confidential and free consultation. With a strong commitment to every client, we can provide the aggressive and comprehensive defense your child needs.