Exactly a month to the day Washington’s Austin Seferian-Jenkins was cited for suspicion of driving under the influence, the All-American tight end is officially facing charges.
According to Bob Condotta of the Seattle Times, Seferian-Jenkins was charged Tuesday by the Seattle City’s Attorney office with driving under the influence. Seferian-Jenkins was involved in a one-car accident early last month that sent him to the hospital via ambulance with what turned out to be minor injuries.
Blood drawn from Seferian-Jenkins at the hospital revealed a BAC of .18, more than twice the legal limit of .08. The charge was the result of an investigation that stretched on for more than four weeks.
Three days after March 9 the incident, Seferian-Jenkins was suspended indefinitely by head coach Steve Sarkisian. Based on school policy, Sarkisian could lift the suspension now that the police investigation is completed and the player was charged with a misdemeanor.
However, the coach said in a statement that the player will remain on suspension, although it appears he’s on track for a return to the team sooner rather than later.
“We are aware of the charge against Austin Seferian-Jenkins that was announced today. He will remain suspended from the football program indefinitely. He has already begun to take the necessary steps to return at the appropriate time.”
Seferian-Jenkins released a statement shortly after the incident apologizing and taking “full responsibility for my actions,” acknowledging that he has work to do to get back in the program’s good graces.
With 69 receptions for 850 yards and seven touchdowns in 2012, Seferian-Jenkins was one of the most highly-regarded players at his position and his name will likely litter myriad preseason All-American teams.