Georgia LB Adam Anderson under investigation for rape
Georgia linebacker Adam Anderson is being investigated for rape.
According to the Athens Banner-Herald, a 21-year-old woman told police she was raped by Anderson on Oct. 29. No arrests have been made, nor have charges been filed, but the investigation is ongoing and the woman has been interviewed by Athens-Clarke County police.
A 21-year-old female told police she went to an Athens residence between 12 a.m. and 7 a.m. on Friday Oct. 29 after having drinks and awoke with Anderson penetrating her while she was lying in bed.
She told police that it was nonconsensual and she was able to leave, according to the report. The woman reported the alleged rape at 2:39 p.m. the same day at the Athens-Clarke County police eastside police department.
In a statement, Georgia head coach Kirby Smart said the school is “aware of the report.”
“We don’t comment on law enforcement matters, but I’ve been clear about the high standards we have for our student-athletes on and off the field,” Smart said. “I will be working closely with our administration to ensure we cooperate fully with all law enforcement and campus protocols.“
Smart did not comment on Anderson’s status with the program. However, according to ESPN, Anderson has been suspended indefinitely. Additionally, UGASports.com is reporting that Anderson “did not participate in several practices this week.”
Anderson issued a statement through his attorney Thursday evening denying the allegation:
"Adam denies in the strongest terms possible the unfounded and unsupported allegations of sexual misconduct. He has been notified of the allegations made to the police and to the UGA Equal Opportunity Office (EOO), and has come to learn that the complainant has already apparently made inconsistent claims — that she was 'unconscious' during the conduct to the EOO but 'awoke' from sleep by the conduct to the police.
"In the interest of justice and fairness, Adam hopes and prays the UGA community and the public keep an open mind and not prejudge him based on inconsistent, unsubstantiated and baseless accusations."
Anderson played in Saturday’s game against Florida, a day after the alleged incident took place. The game took place in Jacksonville, Florida. The team traveled to Jacksonville on Friday, the day the woman reported the alleged rape.
Anderson, a senior, is one of the best players on Georgia’s defense, which is allowing just 6.6 points per game. Anderson has 32 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss and leads the team with five sacks. He is considered a potential first-round NFL draft pick.
Georgia, the No. 1 team in the country, hosts Missouri on Saturday.
