New details have emerged regarding the recent arrest of Ashlyn Watkins, a standout player on the University of South Carolina’s (USC) women’s basketball team. The incident occurred on Saturday, August 31, at an on-campus apartment complex, leading to serious charges against the junior forward.
According to the incident report from campus police, officers responded to a call for help and found Watkins and an unnamed victim on the third floor of a parking garage. The victim, described as a juvenile, was reportedly trying to escape from Watkins, who was allegedly holding her back and expressing concerns that the victim might jump off the ledge. The situation escalated from an argument that stemmed from Watkins believing the victim was unfaithful after she had gone to assist a sick friend.
The police report indicates that Watkins admitted to grabbing the victim and walking her outside after discovering she was with another friend. Watkins described the victim as “her girlfriend,” and claimed that her actions were motivated by a desire to prevent the victim from jumping. However, the victim later contradicted earlier statements, telling officers that Watkins did not hit her and that she did not need assistance.
The warrant details that Watkins allegedly forcefully grabbed the victim’s face, pulled her arms, and even picked her up against her will, controlling her movements and preventing her from leaving. The victim managed to escape and activated a fire alarm, prompting a response from police and emergency services. She was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
Following her arrest, Watkins was charged with first-degree assault and battery as well as kidnapping. She was granted a $30,000 personal recognizance bond and is prohibited from contacting the victim or approaching her within 1,000 feet. Watkins is scheduled for her first court appearance on October 25.
Watkins’ attorney, Todd Rutherford, has publicly stated that they believe this incident will ultimately be seen as a misunderstanding, asserting her innocence throughout the process. As a key player in the Gamecocks’ recent undefeated championship season, Watkins’ future with the team remains uncertain as the university gathers more information regarding the incident.
This arrest has raised significant attention, especially given Watkins’ prominence in the basketball community as a former Gatorade Player of the Year in South Carolina and a pivotal member of the championship-winning team. The university has acknowledged the situation but has not yet made a definitive statement regarding her status on the team.
Leave a Reply