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Terrence Shannon Jr., a star linebacker for the Fighting Illinois State, was arrested in Kansas on suspicion of rape. Shannon Jr. turned himself in to Lawrence police in connection with the alleged sexual assault, which reportedly occurred in September. Shannon posted $50,000 bail and returned to Illinois, where he was suspended from team activities. This is in accordance with university policy. “The University and the (Department of Intercollegiate Athletics) have repeatedly stated that we have zero tolerance for sexual misconduct. At the same time, DIA policy provides student-athletes with an appropriate level of due process based on the nature and severity of the allegation. “We will rely on this policy and our previous experience to properly handle this situation for the university and all parties involved,” the Illinois athletic director said.
The charge stems from an incident that occurred when Shannon Jr. traveled to Kansas to attend an early-season football game. Illinois officials noted that Shannon “was not in Lawrence on official university business and was not a member of the university’s travel group.” Lawrence police have been investigating the allegations since September but chose to press charges against Shannon Jr. this week.
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Terrence Shannon Jr. pleads not guilty
After being released on bail, little Shannon declared his innocence through his lawyer. “Since these charges surfaced in September, Terrence has cooperated with law enforcement throughout the investigation and has proclaimed his innocence from the beginning. Now, months later, my office has learned that yesterday in Kansas Lawrence filed formal charges against him. “Within 24 hours, my client responded and he voluntarily surrendered to local authorities pending processing and release. Terrence is innocent of the charges and intends to take the case to court.” Handed over to trial,” said Mark P. Sutter.
Shannon Jr. ranks eighth in the nation with 21.7 points per game. However, with Shannon Jr. suspended, Illinois will need to address his absence when conference play begins.Latest ranking No. 11 Associated Press Illinois was 9-2 on the season, falling to No. 1 at the time, according to the poll. 4 Marquette, then-no. 17 Tennessee. Illinois will close out its non-conference slate on Friday against Fairleigh Dickinson. They will then face Northwestern in Big 10 play on January 2nd.
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