North Carolina has indefinitely suspended one of its football players who has been accused of raping a UNC student this past Valentine’s Day, the school confirmed late Tuesday night.
A UNC student, sophomore Delaney Robinson, alleged in both a statement and press conference Tuesday that she was raped by a current Tar Heel seven months ago. That player was subsequently identified as Allen Artis, who has been indefinitely suspended by the university.
The suspension came shortly after charges of sexual battery and assault had been filed against Artis. Robinson pursued the filing of misdemeanor charges after prosecutors had determined that felony charges weren’t warranted.
A warrant has been issued for Artis’ arrest on the misdemeanor charges, although he’s yet to turn himself in.
Robinson and her lawyer have accused the university as well as prosecutors of dragging their collective feet on her allegations, which is why they have gone public with her explosive claims.
According to Robinson, she reported the alleged rape to university police as well as the university’s Title IX office. Additionally, she went to a local hospital after the alleged rape, where evidence was collected in a rape kit. Robinson’s father said his daughter, who has acknowledged drinking that night, immediately reported the alleged sexual assault.
“We are aware of the misdemeanor charges against Allen Artis,” a statement from head coach Larry Fedora began. “I cannot comment on either the allegation or the investigative process. We take these matters very seriously and are fully cooperating with the appropriate authorities.”
The past two seasons, Artis played in 25 games for the Tar Heels. He had played in both games to start the 2016 season.