Jan 6, 2014; Pasadena, CA, USA; Florida State Seminoles quarterback Jameis Winston (5) pretends to drop the Coaches Trophy after the 2014 BCS National Championship game against the Auburn Tigers at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
TomahawkNation.com first reported that FSU’s Heisman Trophy winning quarterback, Jameis Winston, was arrested for stealing crab legs from a Publix in Tallahassee. The report was later updated to indicate that Winston was not arrested, only cited for the crime. The Tallahassee Democrat published an article this morning that seems to indicate that these reports may or may not have any validity to them. They’ve requested public records and the Leon County Police Department has asked them to to be at their offices at 2 p.m. EST this afternoon.
The Tallahassee Police Department’s twitter account had the following:
In response to recent requests: TPD has NOT had any contact with Jameis Winston regarding an alleged recent citation.
— Tallahassee Police (@TallyPD) April 30, 2014
Florida State University and Publix have remained mum on the topic so far this morning, but it has taken social media by storm (currently Jameis Winston and Publix are the #2 and #3 trending items on Twitter). A number of internet memes have popped up, mocking the dual-sport athlete. This wouldn’t be the first time a high-profile Seminole got in trouble; former Heisman favorite Peter Warrick was arrested on charges of grand theft after receiving a “steep discount” from Dillards, which resulted in his eventual suspension.
Though the story involving Winston and Publix is still developing, this is not the first time the quarterback has found himself wrapped up in a legal matter. Prior to last year’s Heisman vote, Jameis Winston was investigated for allegations of sexual misconduct. He was cleared by authorities, but rumors have swirled around a potential civil suit and FSU being investigated by federal authorities.
UPDATE (4.30.2014):
Jameis Winston has been suspended from the FSU baseball team following his citation for shop lifting.
"As a result of his citation last night, we are suspending Jameis Winston from the baseball team,” said FSU Baseball Coach Mike Martin. “I am confident he will complete his community service obligation and the situation will be resolved soon."
UPDATE (5.5.2014):
Jameis Winston has been reinstated to the FSU baseball team after serving the 20 hours of community service required for his citation. FSU baseball head coach Mike Martin confirmed Winston’s status to the Orlando Sentinal:
"“Winston is reinstated, yes,” Martin said, according to the Orlando Sentinel. “He finished his community service and as soon as he did, we reinstated him.”"
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