LEXINGTON, Ky. – Six University of Kentucky football players have been charged with first-degree theft, with one also charged with first-degree danger following the investigation of an incident last March at a private party.
The Lexington Police Department said Thursday in a statement that linebacker Reuben Adams, running back JuTahn McClain, defenseman Andru Phillips, receiver Earnest Sanders IV, safety Vito Tisdale and defensive back Joel Williams were accused of first-degree theft. Tisdale was also charged with dangerous danger for allegedly pointing a gun at one of the victims.
Players face off in Fayette County District Court on Friday.
The statement indicated that on March 6, three people entered a private party at which they were not invited to a residence and were asked to leave. The statement added that they were upset and threatened to return, and returned shortly afterwards with other people.
They were forcibly opened inside and a suspect was spotted pointing a gun at a victim, according to the statement.
“I am aware of the situation that arose today,” Kentucky coach Mark Stoops said in a statement released to local media. “Out of respect for the legal process, I can’t comment on the charges. We’ve been aware of this since March, as we retained the players from the team’s activities while a review of student behavior was being done. Based on the result of the review, the players returned to activity in June. We are assessing the current situation as we receive more information. “
The Associated Press contributed to this report.