Oklahoma linebacker Frank Shannon isn’t pulling any punches after being suspended by the university for a year due to an accusation of sexual assault.
Shannon’s attorney, Aletia Timmons, spoke with the media Friday. Timmons painted a completely different picture than the one that was originally given regarding Shannon’s status.
The most pertinent statement made to the media was Shannon’s claim of innocence.Timmons: This incident arose because Shannon “refused to have intercourse” with the woman and it upset her
— Jason Kersey (@jasonkersey) August 29, 2014
Shannon and his representation took the linebacker’s claims a step further.The university reportedly conducted an internal investigation before it handed down it’s punishment. In doing so, Shannon claims the school “ failed” him and made him into a “scapegoat.” Shannon even submitted to a polygraph test to clear his name.
Timmons: Shannon passed a polygraph test with flying colors
— Jason Kersey (@jasonkersey) August 29, 2014
Shannon never considered the possibility of transferring from the University of Oklahoma.
“I’m not running,” Shannon told Timmons during their initial meeting, according to The Oklahoman. “I’m not going to be branded as a rapist.”
Instead, Shannon plans to publicly protest the university’s decision to have him suspended.Timmons: Shannon “will stand on the sideline in silent protest” to clear his name
— Jason Kersey (@jasonkersey) August 29, 2014
Shannon’s adamant views make this a compelling case. The university and its football team have to err on the side of caution. Whereas, Shannon obviously feels like his name is being dragged through the mud.
The only thing that bring some finality to this case is the results of the ongoing investigation by the police department. The university can’t budge on its current stance after stating it “takes very seriously its obligation in cases like this.” And Shannon shouldn’t back down if he’s innocent.
Shannon, who was Oklahoma’s leading tackler a year ago, still has the “ability to appeal any decision reached by the University to a district court.” Until then, he’ll have to wait on the sidelines until some type of decision is made.