A retired Florida Supreme Court justice has found that Florida State University quarterback Jameis Winston was not responsible for violating the school’s conduct code.
Winston was accused by a female FSU student of sexual assault at an off-campus apartment. The alleged incident occurred two years ago, and the delay in the school’s handling of the matter, among other things, prompted intense scrutiny from the media.
Former Florida Supreme Court Justice Major Harding ruled on Sunday that there wasn’t enough evidence to “satisfy the burden of proof,” reports USA Today. Although there were four people in the apartment on the day of the incident, only the female victim would answer questions. Winston and two of his team mates refused to discuss the matter.
Winston led the Seminoles football team to a national championship last season, and the team has not lost a game since he earned the starting position in 2013, reports ESPN. FSU faces Oregon in the College Football Playoff semifinal on Jan. 1, and prior to Sunday’s decision there were questions as to whether Winston would play in the game.
Representatives for the woman say they are considering appealing the decision, which is due by Jan. 13.
