The Austin Police Department released a statement Friday saying it is looking into two alleged assaults, one in September and another last weekend, and that the individuals being investigated are members of the University of Texas athletics program.
According to the statement, police are investigating allegations of aggravated assault with an automatic handgun Sept. 4. No location was specified.
Police also are investigating allegations of attempted robbery by assault early Dec. 10 in Austin’s entertainment district. According to the statement, police received a call reporting that a suspect used his hands, fist and feet to carry out the assault.
“Information obtained indicates that the individuals being investigated in these incidents are involved in the UT athletics program,” the statement said. “Due to the fact that these cases are still being investigated, APD cannot provide additional information.”
Austin attorney Ken Oden said he is advising Texas senior cornerback Cedric Griffin, who has been questioned by police in connection with the Dec. 10 incident. Oden said people should reserve judgment on Griffin because his name would be cleared.
“The evaluation toward Cedric is based on what I would characterize as a trash-talking incident between he and another guy on Sixth Street,” Oden said. “There were no weapons and no robbery. There were not even any licks exchanged.
“Cedric has provided answers to every question the police have, and they’re being very thorough and deliberate, as they should. When that process runs its course, I believe his reputation will be intact and people will rightly wonder how unfair speculation can be if you’re a college athlete before a big game.”
Texas athletic director DeLoss Dodds released a statement Friday night.
“We were surprised by the release of allegations concerning one or more of our student-athletes,” he said. “We have followed up on the rumors that we are hearing and have spoken with two student-athletes who are alleged to be under investigation.
“Within the limited time that we had this evening, we have gathered as much information as possible. We have no reason to believe that either the university or the athletic department needs to take any action.
“We will continue to monitor the matter and we will cooperate fully with those who are conducting the investigation.”