Jameis Winston Cited for Shoplifting Crab Legs, Suspended From Baseball Team
By Patrik Nohe
Feb 25, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles pitcher/outfielder Jameis Winston (44) in the dugout during the sixth inning against the New York Yankees at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Early this morning news broke that Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston had been cited for stealing crab legs from Publix. The rising redshirt sophomore was stopped at a Publix last night and — though it was initially reported as an arrest — was issued a citation for shoplifting.
That set off a torrent of jokes, memes and bad photo-shopping on social media and also forced Florida State to take definitive action.
This afternoon Florida State announced that Winston will be suspended from its baseball team pending the completion of community service.
“As a result of his citation last night, we are suspending Jameis Winston from the baseball team,” said FSU Baseball Coach Mike Martin via a Florida State press release. “I am confident he will complete his community service obligation and the situation will be resolved soon.”
Added head football coach, Jimbo Fisher: “I fully support Coach Martin’s decision and will also make sure that Jameis meets all obligations, which I know he will.”
UPDATE: The Leon County Sheriff’s Office just held one of the most ridiculous press conferences in the history of ridiculous press conferences. It did however give us some new details. The incident occurred around 10 PM at the Publix on Ocala Rd. (affectionately known by FSU students as Club Pub) when Winston ordered 32.72 worth of crab legs and craw fish to be steamed and then walked out without paying.
Winston alleges he realized his mistake after arriving home but made no attempt to contact Publix and make payment. The Leon County Sheriff’s office responded that night, and after Winston’s admission of guilt came to an agreement with Publix to enter Winston into a pre-trial diversion program that would require him to do 20 hours of community service and make restitution for the stolen goods.
Winston now has seven days to call and arrange his service.
The officer made it a point to reiterate that Winston has not been arrested, this is considered a civil citation.
UPDATE: Winston has released the following statement through his attorney, Tim Jansen:
“As reported in the news, last night I received an adult civil citation for petit theft from a local supermarket. I went to the supermarket with the intent to purchase dinner but made a terrible mistake for which I’m taking full responsibility. In a moment of youthful ignorance, I walked out of the store without paying for one of my items.
“I realize that I am in the public spotlight and my conduct needs to be above reproach. Over the last year I’ve learned that my accomplishments on the fields can be a wonderful thing for my school, teammates, friends, and family. At the same time, I must realize that my mistakes are magnified and can bring great embarrassment to all those who support me every day. I make no excuses for my actions and will learn and grow from this unfortunate situation. I hope and pray my friends and family will view me as the 20-year-old young man that I am, and support me through this unfortunate situation.
“I am grateful to be able to participate in the adult citation program where I will complete community service.”
We’ll have updates as soon as they become available…
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