Ohio State running back Carlos Hyde was connected... and then reportedly cleared... only to be re-connected later... to an alleged assault of a female victim earlier this month.
But it looks like Hyde won’t face charges in the incident. Columbus police told multiple outlets today that the running back will not be charged with assault because the woman involved does not want to pursue the case. Since the decision was made by the woman, the case is considered closed.
Hyde was originally named a “person of interest” related to the incident, which occurred at a Columbus night club. Two reports -- one from Yahoo! Sports and another from an NBC affiliate in Columbus -- later came out with conflicting information over whether Hyde did anything wrong.
Buckeyes coach Urban Meyer still has not commented on Hyde’s status since suspending him over a week ago.
Hyde rushed for 970 yards and 16 touchdowns for the Buckeyes last season. He is expected to start for Ohio State this year.
Update 2:00 p.m. ET: The alleged victim has released a statement on the decision not to press charges. Here it is in its entirety via NBC4 in Columbus:Keeping in mind what is for me and my family I have decided to refrain from filing charges at this time.
Some of the media has rushed to judgment regarding the incident to ensure they are the first to report the information, whether it be factual or false. This has been overwhelming, frustrating and disappointing. It is unimaginable to be exposed to these false reports, claims and rumors and for anticipated 4 months expected to bring this incident to a conclusion.
I would like to thank the Columbus Police department for their patience and professionalism they showed conducting their investigation. They have advised me I have up to two years to consider criminal charges.
I believe the video, if released, will speak for itself when shown in its entirety and not edited or censored.
Thank you