Many people associate domestic violence-related charges with older people — or at least those past college-age. However, relationships can become volatile at any age.
University of Georgia (UGA) football player Devonte Wyatt was arrested last month at a dormitory on campus and charged with family violence, damage to property and criminal trespass. All three charges are misdemeanors.
According to UGA Police, they received a 911 call reporting that a man and woman were fighting. Officers determined that it was a verbal altercation and that “neither party indicated they were in fear for their safety.” They were reportedly leaving the residence hall together when police arrived.
According to their report, the defensive lineman had kicked the woman’s door “multiple times from the hallway, damaging the door and forcing it open.” The two reportedly have an off-again, on-again romantic relationship. That’s why the “family violence” charge was included.
Wyatt was arrested several days later by the Clarke County Sheriff’s Office and booked at Athens-Clarke County Jail on $1,500 bond.
The UGA football team made national headlines last year when six players were arrested over just six weeks. This is the first known arrest of a team member this school year.
Coach Kirby Smart said in a statement, “I’m disappointed in the misconduct that is outlined in the incident report. This is not indicative of the behavior we expect from our student-athletes who represent the University of Georgia and our football program. We will address it internally in the appropriate way.”
It’s essential for young people — and people of all ages, for that matter — to understand what kind of actions can be grounds for a family violence-related criminal charge. It’s also important to understand the ramifications that such a charge can have on your life. If you or a loved one has been arrested, an experienced attorney can provide valuable guidance and protect your rights.
