AJ Johnson/Michael Williams Update
By Zach Ragan
Tennessee senior linebacker A.J. Johnson and sophomore defensive back Michael Williams are officially being investigated for “forcibly raping” a UT student, according to the Knoxville News-Sentinel.
The News-Sentinel cites a police report that was released by KPD on Tuesday. The report says a second female accused Michael Williams of sexual assault.
Charges have yet to be filed against either player.
According to Jimmy Hyams, the investigation is still on-going. Hyams tweeted that a KPD spokesperson said “numerous individuals” have been interviewed in relation to the allegations and “numerous individuals” will continue to be interviewed.
KPD spokesman Darrell DeBusk said `a lot’ of people were at apartment complex party Sunday am where alleged rape occurred w/ 2 UT FB players
— Jimmy Hyams (@JimmyHyams) November 18, 2014
I asked DeBusk if there were witnesses: `We have interviewed numerous individuals and we will continue to interview individuals.'
— Jimmy Hyams (@JimmyHyams) November 18, 2014
DeBusk wouldn't say exact time alleged rape took place, citing ongoing investigation, although the 911 call was placed at 2:57 am Sunday.
— Jimmy Hyams (@JimmyHyams) November 18, 2014
A KPD initial incident report said one alleged victim said she was raped by both AJ Johnson and Michael Williams. A 2nd said she was(1/2)
— Jimmy Hyams (@JimmyHyams) November 18, 2014
...was sexually assaulted by Williams. DeBusk would not say if 2 FB players in question have been interviewed. He did say both have lawyers
— Jimmy Hyams (@JimmyHyams) November 18, 2014
I think it’s relatively safe to assume that Johnson, a senior, has played his last regular season game at Tennessee. It doesn’t sound like the investigation is near a conclusion at this point. Butch Jones has already stated that any UT player under investigation will not be allowed to practice. I don’t foresee Johnson’s or Williams’ suspensions being lifted before any investigation is complete.
If no charges are brought forward, then perhaps Johnson or Williams could play in Tennessee’s bowl game (assuming they make one), but I would consider that outcome doubtful.
It’s too early to tell if any charges will indeed be brought forward. These are very serious allegations and the KPD has no reason to be hasty in their investigation. This is a situation where football absolutely takes a back seat.