Terrence Shannon Jr., the former Illinois standout and potential first-round pick in the upcoming NBA draft, was found not guilty Thursday of a rape charge by a jury in Douglas County, Kansas, after less than two hours of deliberation.
The verdict puts an end to a case that has generated great media attention, especially in the world of sports. Shannon, 23, was accused of sexual assault last September during a visit to Kansas to attend an Illini-Jayhawks football game.
The charges included rape or, alternatively, sexual assault. Despite having been suspended for six games, a federal judge ordered his reinstatement, arguing that his civil rights had been violated.
During the trial, Shannon testified that he did not remember committing any sexual assault and that she learned of the allegations weeks after the incident. For her part, the woman who accused him told the police that Shannon had touched her inappropriately in a bar during a night in which they were both present.
Following the verdict, the player’s legal representatives issued a statement stating that “justice has been done” and that the public owes Terrence Shannon Jr. an apology.
Terrence Shannon Jr. broke his silence
After not speaking publicly, the young player released a statement on social media. “Thank you to everyone who stood by me these last nine months,” Shannon Jr. said. “I knew I was innocent of these horrible crimes and I had faith in God that someday everyone else would know that, too.”
Now, he can put this accusation behind him, and he will be able to focus on his future in professional basketball and continuing to demonstrate his talent on the court.
“I am so grateful to all of you for believing in me, especially my family, friends and legal teams whose support kept me going. I’m ready to put this chapter of my life behind me and fully focus on my path forward,” the statement reads.