3 Former College Basketball Players Charged with Numerous Sex Crimes Against Their Own Teammates
Former New Mexico State Basketball Players Charged with Multiple Sex Crimes Against Their Own Teammates
Three former New Mexico State basketball players are facing charges related to a series of alleged assaults on their teammates, which ultimately led to the disbandment of the team last season.
A New Mexico grand jury has indicted former Aggies Deshawndre Washington, Kim Aiken Jr., and Doctor Bradley on multiple counts of criminal sexual penetration, criminal sexual conduct, and false imprisonment.
If convicted, Washington and Bradley could each face up to 27 years in prison on 13 charges, while Aiken could face up to 24 years on 11 charges.
The state attorney general, in announcing the indictments, did not disclose the names of the victims.
Earlier this week, two former players and a student manager filed a civil lawsuit against the school, athletic director Mario Moccia, former coaches, and the accused players, alleging that they were sexually assaulted and threatened with guns in the New Mexico State locker room.
These allegations mirror those made in a previous lawsuit settled by the school for $8 million.
The lawsuits describe a degrading ritual in which the defendants would forcibly expose the victims and sometimes touch their genitals.
These descriptions align with the findings of the school’s recent Title IX investigation into the same players.
These criminal charges are the first to arise from what the school initially referred to as a hazing incident.
The indictments detail incidents from August to November 2022, during which the defendants allegedly held younger players and student staff against their will and subjected them to various violations. These acts included forcefully restraining victims while violently grabbing their genital area.
All three players are also charged with second-degree sexual penetration, which carries a maximum sentence of nine years in prison.
Their first court appearance is scheduled for November 22 in Dona Ana County, where New Mexico State is located.
No attorneys have been listed for the players.
Neither Washington nor Aiken have found new teams since leaving New Mexico State when the season was abruptly canceled and the team disbanded in February. Bradley signed with Nicholls State, but a university spokesperson confirmed that he is no longer on the team.
State Attorney General Raúl Torrez is also investigating the school’s handling of the events that led to the team’s season being canceled.
“Players, coaches, and administrators should be aware that while this action is an important first step in addressing this inexcusable behavior, our work in correcting the culture that allowed these crimes to occur is far from finished,” Torrez stated.
No one has been charged in the death of a University of New Mexico student who was shot by Aggies forward Mike Peake. Peake was ruled to have acted in self-defense.
Carrying guns on campus or on school-sponsored trips is against university policy and is considered a misdemeanor in New Mexico.
The Western Journal has reviewed this Associated Press story and may have altered it prior to publication to ensure that it meets our editorial standards.
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What measures can universities and athletic programs implement to create a safe and supportive environment for athletes and prevent incidents of non-consensual sexual acts?
Ing victims, engaging in non-consensual sexual acts, and creating an environment of fear and intimidation.
The consequences of these alleged crimes have been far-reaching. The New Mexico State basketball team, once a source of pride for the university and its fans, has been disbanded indefinitely. The actions of a few individuals have tarnished the reputation of the entire program and left a lasting impact on the victims.
It is important to recognize the courage of the victims who came forward and reported these heinous acts. Sexual assault is a serious crime that can have long-lasting effects on survivors. By speaking out, these individuals have not only sought justice for themselves but have also shed light on the pervasive issue of sexual misconduct in the world of college sports.
The indictment and subsequent legal proceedings will bring these allegations to light. It is necessary for the justice system to thoroughly investigate the charges and ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions. The victims deserve justice, and the university must take appropriate measures to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
This case also highlights the importance of educating athletes, coaches, and team staff about consent, respect, and appropriate behavior. It is crucial to create an environment where all individuals feel safe and supported, and where any form of harassment or assault is not tolerated.
Furthermore, it is essential for universities and athletic programs to have robust policies and procedures in place to prevent and address sexual misconduct. Regular training, reporting mechanisms, and support services should be readily available to all members of the athletic community to ensure their safety and well-being.
The repercussions of this case extend beyond the immediate players involved. It serves as a sobering reminder that no institution or individual is immune to the problem of sexual abuse. As a society, we must continue to work towards creating a culture that empowers survivors, holds perpetrators accountable, and prioritizes the safety and well-being of all individuals.
In conclusion, the charges against the former New Mexico State basketball players are a grave reminder of the prevalence of sexual misconduct in college sports. It is essential that we take this opportunity to reflect on the measures we can take to prevent such incidents and provide support to those affected. Only through collective efforts can we create a future where every athlete can pursue their passion without fear of abuse or harm.
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