Michigan running back and LSA junior B.J. Askew restated his plea of innocence yesterday at a hearing in regard to a misdemeanor charge of battery and assault. Askew will go to trial on March 6 at the Washtenaw County District Court in front of Judge Kirk Tabbey.
- Paul Wong
- he Residential College provides a unique living and learning environment, but many of its unique characteristics are highly contentious at the same time.
Askew was originally arrested Feb. 3 at his residence in Pittsfield Township. He was allegedly fighting with his girlfriend when he pinned her to the bed and then threw her out of his apartment. He let her back in, and she then bit him on the forearm. Askew then called the police from his neighbor”s residence. Pittsfield police arrested Askew and then released him on bond.
Askew is the second football player this year to face assault charges. In October 2001, freshman cornerback Markus Curry was arrested on charges of domestic assault and telephone tampering during a fight with his girlfriend. A plea bargain later reduced the charges to assault with no battery.
Last Thursday, Curry was sentenced to 12 months probation, a $250 fine and mandatory participation in community service programs. The same day, Michigan football coach Lloyd Carr said in a written statement that Curry had been reinstated to the team.
The Athletic Department was unable to comment on Askew”s future status with the team.
If found guilty, Askew could be sentenced to a maximum of 93 days in jail and a $500 fine.