http://www.clarionledger.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20061004/SPORTS030101/610040360
October 4, 2006
JSU's White expelled for campus arrest
Former Provine point guard's athletics fate pending appeal of dean's ruling
By David Brandt
[email protected]
Jackson State basketball player Charlie White was expelled from school Tuesday for violations of the student code of conduct, meaning he likely won't be able to play for the Tigers this season.
White has 24 hours to appeal the decision. JSU coach Tevester Anderson said he expects White will appeal.
"He's going to try and see what he can do," Anderson said. "It's a shame because he's a good person, but he did something he regrets in the spur of the moment. Schools have regulations and if you break the rules then you have to pay the consequences."
White, 21, could not be reached for comment.
White was arrested on weapons charges after allegedly firing a gun on campus on Sept. 22. According to a police report, the JSU department of public safety witnessed several fights during a pre-alumni dance on campus just after midnight.
During the fighting, White allegedly fired four shots into the air with a .380-caliber handgun in the parking lot of Alexander Hall.
He was arrested and charged with possession of a firearm on educational property and exhibiting a weapon in a threatening manner. He posted a $10,000 bond from the Hinds County Detention Center in Raymond later that day.
The first charge is the most serious, carrying up to three years in prison and a $5,000 fine if convicted. The latter charge carries three months in prison and a $500 fine.
His initial appearance in court is scheduled for Jan. 22.
JSU Dean of Students Marcus Chanay handed down the sanction following an informal hearing. White, who requested the informal proceeding following his arrest, attended the hearing.
White would likely have played a major role on this year's team. He played in 32 games last year, averaging 7.8 points and 3.2 rebounds and was the state'sMr. Basketball in 2003 for Provine High School.
"Jackson State University takes the safety of its students and staff very seriously," said Chanay in a statement released by the school. "Possession of weapons on campus is a violation of university policy and state law. We followed our judicial process to address this breach of that policy."
The probable loss of White hurts JSU's chances of improving on last season's 15-17 record (10-8 SWAC).
The Tigers begin practice in two weeks and return leading scorer Trey Johnson, but will now have to find a way to win without their projected starting point guard.
Catraiva Givens is the team's only other returning point guard. He averaged 3.8 points in 32 games last season.
"Losing Charlie is a big blow in every way," Johnson said. "I know he wants to be back on the court with his teammates and he's trying to keep his spirits up. Hopefully, they'll reinstate him. But if not we'll just do the best we can."