Former Illinois standout Terrence Shannon Jr., a possible first-round NBA draft choose, was discovered not responsible Thursday on a rape cost after a jury in Douglas County, Kansas, spent lower than two hours deliberating the decision.
The 23-year-old Shannon was accused of committing sexual assault final September whereas visiting Kansas for a soccer recreation between the Illini and the Jayhawks. He was charged with rape or another depend of sexual battery, which led to him being suspended for six video games; a federal choose later reinstated him, ruling that his civil rights had been violated.
Shannon testified that he joined two roommates and some Kansas gamers at a bar on Sept. 8, 2023, however he solely had a number of drinks and remembered every thing that occurred that evening. Shannon stated he didn’t study of the rape allegation till a number of weeks later, and that he had by no means seen the 18-year-old girl who had accused him till the case had begun.
The lady instructed police she was on the bar when a person, whom she later recognized as Shannon, grabbed her buttocks and reached below her skirt to the touch her. The lady claimed that the bar was crowded, so she was unable to maneuver.
Shannon testified {that a} girl near him had been raped and he would by no means deal with one other girl the identical approach.
Shannon’s legal professionals known as the allegations a “blind accusation” and questioned the motives of the girl. In addition they criticized the prosecutors in Douglas County for a scarcity of proof and a Lawrence detective for the thoroughness of his investigation.
Many scouts had been watching the case carefully forward of the NBA draft, which is scheduled for June 26-27.
The 6-foot-6 Shannon, who can play level guard and taking pictures guard, performed 5 seasons for Illinois. He was at his greatest this previous season, averaging 23 factors for a workforce that reached the Elite Eight earlier than shedding to eventual nationwide champion UConn.
Shannon was voted first-team All-Huge Ten and a third-team All-American by The Related Press.
