Roethlisberger Accused of Sexual Assault Again (2 Viewers)

[Yenrub]

http://www.ajc.com/sports/police-expected-...ase-355166.html

Police expected to release more info on Roethlisberger sexual assault allegation

By Rhonda Cook and Bill Rankin

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Milledgeville authorities are planning to release more details Monday afternoon about the allegation that Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger may have sexually assaulted a Georgia College & State University student last week.

The football star was interviewed Friday and allowed to leave the state. Since then he has hired veteran Atlanta defense lawyers Ed Garland and Don Samuel. On Monday, Samuel confirmed that his firm already has consulted with Roethlisberger and interviewed some witnesses in the case.

Samuel said he would have no further comment.

Police said the woman reported that she was "sexually assaulted or sexually manipulated" by a man she described as 6-foot-5 and 241 pounds. She did not name Roethlisberger, but the two were seen at “multiple establishments” in Milledgeville late Thursday, according to police.

Police interviewed Roethlisberger, 28, but he was not charged. He has since left Georgia, where he has a home on Lake Oconee near Milldegeville.

(Couch Potato edit -- the rest of the crap below just concerns the lawyer and his previous celebrity clients, nothing to do with Ben. You can stop reading here if not interested in the past stuff)

Garland and his firm have represented several high-profile sports stars and entertainers in criminal cases.

In 2000, Garland represented Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis, who was charged with murder in a Buckhead street fight after a night of post-Super Bowl celebrating. In mid-trial, on June 5, 2000, Fulton County prosecutors dropped the murder charges against Lewis, allowing him to plead guilty to a misdemeanor charge.

Just weeks after the Ray Lewis case ended, Garland was retained by another Baltimore Raven, Atlanta native Jamal Lewis, who was accused of a federal drug conspiracy.

Federal prosecutors said running back Jamal Lewis, then-reigning NFL Offensive Player of the Year, with involved in a drug conspiracy in the now-demolished public housing complex Bowen Homes and along the stretch of road once named Bankhead Highway. Prosecutors said Jamal Lewis stepped into the middle of a federal investigation when he made a cellphone call to introduce a childhood friend to a woman he didn’t know was an FBI informant posing as a drug trafficker. He pleaded guilty four years later to a misdemeanor, using a cellphone to make a drug transaction, and was sentenced to four months in a minimum-security prison, which was served in the off-season.

Another Garland client, former Atlanta Thrasher Dany Heatley, was charged with vehicular homicide in 2003 but pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor in the car crash that killed a teammate. Heatley's speeding black Ferrari 360 convertible was ripped in half when it crashed into a brick pillar and black iron fence at The Plantation at Lenox in Buckhead on Sept. 29, 2003. Heatley and teammate Dan Snyder were ejected and Snyder was killed.

Prosecutors said Heatley was not drunk when he crashed, so they agreed to Garland’s proposal that the hockey player plead guilty to a lesser crime. Snyder’s family approved the agreement, which also limited Heatley to driving a six-cylinder car at no more than 70 mph.

Garland also was one of the attorneys rapper T.I. retained when he was arrested in Midtown Atlanta just hours before the 2007 B.E.T. Awards when he tried to buy automatic weapons and a silencer from an undercover agent.

T.I., whose legal name is Clifford Harris, pleaded guilty. He was sentenced to 1,000 hours of community service that involved telling kids and fans not to emulate his old lifestyle of drugs, guns, gangs and violence. Then he was to spend a year and a day in prison, a sentenced he has completed.

That's pretty damn specific. Reading off the roster?

He probably mentions it in his ‘rap’Female: You are pretty big, how big are you?

Big Ben: I’m 6’ 5 241 but that’s not why they call me Big Ben if you know what I’m saying

 

[beavers]

I found Adam Schefters comments about the Steelers displeasure interesting.

Care to share?

 

[coolnerd]

I found Adam Schefters comments about the Steelers displeasure interesting.

Care to share?

Steelers' release on the mater per nationalfootballpost.comFor the first time since sexual assault allegations were made against Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, the organization has broken its silence.

Although Steelers team president Art Rooney II didn't have much to say about the incident, it wasn't exactly a statement of support.

"All of us in the Steelers family are concerned about the recent incident involving Ben Roethlisberger in Georgia," Rooney said in a statement released by the team this afternoon. "We cannot comment on any of the specifics until law enforcement's investigation is concluded. Certainly, we will continue to closely monitor the situation."

Roethlisberger has hired Ed Garland, the accomplished lawyer who has previously defended Baltimore Ravens middle linebacker Ray Lewis and rapper TI, among others.

 

[beavers]

I found Adam Schefters comments about the Steelers displeasure interesting.

Care to share?

Steelers' release on the mater per nationalfootballpost.comFor the first time since sexual assault allegations were made against Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, the organization has broken its silence.

Although Steelers team president Art Rooney II didn't have much to say about the incident, it wasn't exactly a statement of support.

"All of us in the Steelers family are concerned about the recent incident involving Ben Roethlisberger in Georgia," Rooney said in a statement released by the team this afternoon. "We cannot comment on any of the specifics until law enforcement's investigation is concluded. Certainly, we will continue to closely monitor the situation."

Roethlisberger has hired Ed Garland, the accomplished lawyer who has previously defended Baltimore Ravens middle linebacker Ray Lewis and rapper TI, among others.

Thanks

 

[Mile High]

I found Adam Schefters comments about the Steelers displeasure interesting.

Care to share?

Steelers ownership is growing tired of Roethlisberger, putting himself into situations they feel are tarnishing the imagine of the Steelers.

 

[Tau837]

http://www.ajc.com/sports/police-expected-...ase-355166.html

Police expected to release more info on Roethlisberger sexual assault allegation

By Rhonda Cook and Bill Rankin

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Milledgeville authorities are planning to release more details Monday afternoon about the allegation that Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger may have sexually assaulted a Georgia College & State University student last week.

The football star was interviewed Friday and allowed to leave the state. Since then he has hired veteran Atlanta defense lawyers Ed Garland and Don Samuel. On Monday, Samuel confirmed that his firm already has consulted with Roethlisberger and interviewed some witnesses in the case.

Samuel said he would have no further comment.

Police said the woman reported that she was "sexually assaulted or sexually manipulated" by a man she described as 6-foot-5 and 241 pounds. She did not name Roethlisberger, but the two were seen at “multiple establishments” in Milledgeville late Thursday, according to police.

Police interviewed Roethlisberger, 28, but he was not charged. He has since left Georgia, where he has a home on Lake Oconee near Milldegeville.

(Couch Potato edit -- the rest of the crap below just concerns the lawyer and his previous celebrity clients, nothing to do with Ben. You can stop reading here if not interested in the past stuff)

Garland and his firm have represented several high-profile sports stars and entertainers in criminal cases.

In 2000, Garland represented Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis, who was charged with murder in a Buckhead street fight after a night of post-Super Bowl celebrating. In mid-trial, on June 5, 2000, Fulton County prosecutors dropped the murder charges against Lewis, allowing him to plead guilty to a misdemeanor charge.

Just weeks after the Ray Lewis case ended, Garland was retained by another Baltimore Raven, Atlanta native Jamal Lewis, who was accused of a federal drug conspiracy.

Federal prosecutors said running back Jamal Lewis, then-reigning NFL Offensive Player of the Year, with involved in a drug conspiracy in the now-demolished public housing complex Bowen Homes and along the stretch of road once named Bankhead Highway. Prosecutors said Jamal Lewis stepped into the middle of a federal investigation when he made a cellphone call to introduce a childhood friend to a woman he didn’t know was an FBI informant posing as a drug trafficker. He pleaded guilty four years later to a misdemeanor, using a cellphone to make a drug transaction, and was sentenced to four months in a minimum-security prison, which was served in the off-season.

Another Garland client, former Atlanta Thrasher Dany Heatley, was charged with vehicular homicide in 2003 but pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor in the car crash that killed a teammate. Heatley's speeding black Ferrari 360 convertible was ripped in half when it crashed into a brick pillar and black iron fence at The Plantation at Lenox in Buckhead on Sept. 29, 2003. Heatley and teammate Dan Snyder were ejected and Snyder was killed.

Prosecutors said Heatley was not drunk when he crashed, so they agreed to Garland’s proposal that the hockey player plead guilty to a lesser crime. Snyder’s family approved the agreement, which also limited Heatley to driving a six-cylinder car at no more than 70 mph.

Garland also was one of the attorneys rapper T.I. retained when he was arrested in Midtown Atlanta just hours before the 2007 B.E.T. Awards when he tried to buy automatic weapons and a silencer from an undercover agent.

T.I., whose legal name is Clifford Harris, pleaded guilty. He was sentenced to 1,000 hours of community service that involved telling kids and fans not to emulate his old lifestyle of drugs, guns, gangs and violence. Then he was to spend a year and a day in prison, a sentenced he has completed.

That's pretty damn specific. Reading off the roster?

He probably mentions it in his ‘rap’Female: You are pretty big, how big are you?

Big Ben: I’m 6’ 5 241 but that’s not why they call me Big Ben if you know what I’m saying

I thought of this the first time someone commented on the description she supposedly gave. Surprised it took this long for someone to post it.

 

[Idiot Boxer]

http://www.ajc.com/sports/police-expected-...ase-355166.html

Police expected to release more info on Roethlisberger sexual assault allegation

By Rhonda Cook and Bill Rankin

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Milledgeville authorities are planning to release more details Monday afternoon about the allegation that Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger may have sexually assaulted a Georgia College & State University student last week.

The football star was interviewed Friday and allowed to leave the state. Since then he has hired veteran Atlanta defense lawyers Ed Garland and Don Samuel. On Monday, Samuel confirmed that his firm already has consulted with Roethlisberger and interviewed some witnesses in the case.

Samuel said he would have no further comment.

Police said the woman reported that she was "sexually assaulted or sexually manipulated" by a man she described as 6-foot-5 and 241 pounds. She did not name Roethlisberger, but the two were seen at "multiple establishments" in Milledgeville late Thursday, according to police.

Police interviewed Roethlisberger, 28, but he was not charged. He has since left Georgia, where he has a home on Lake Oconee near Milldegeville.

(Couch Potato edit -- the rest of the crap below just concerns the lawyer and his previous celebrity clients, nothing to do with Ben. You can stop reading here if not interested in the past stuff)

Garland and his firm have represented several high-profile sports stars and entertainers in criminal cases.

In 2000, Garland represented Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis, who was charged with murder in a Buckhead street fight after a night of post-Super Bowl celebrating. In mid-trial, on June 5, 2000, Fulton County prosecutors dropped the murder charges against Lewis, allowing him to plead guilty to a misdemeanor charge.

Just weeks after the Ray Lewis case ended, Garland was retained by another Baltimore Raven, Atlanta native Jamal Lewis, who was accused of a federal drug conspiracy.

Federal prosecutors said running back Jamal Lewis, then-reigning NFL Offensive Player of the Year, with involved in a drug conspiracy in the now-demolished public housing complex Bowen Homes and along the stretch of road once named Bankhead Highway. Prosecutors said Jamal Lewis stepped into the middle of a federal investigation when he made a cellphone call to introduce a childhood friend to a woman he didn't know was an FBI informant posing as a drug trafficker. He pleaded guilty four years later to a misdemeanor, using a cellphone to make a drug transaction, and was sentenced to four months in a minimum-security prison, which was served in the off-season.

Another Garland client, former Atlanta Thrasher Dany Heatley, was charged with vehicular homicide in 2003 but pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor in the car crash that killed a teammate. Heatley's speeding black Ferrari 360 convertible was ripped in half when it crashed into a brick pillar and black iron fence at The Plantation at Lenox in Buckhead on Sept. 29, 2003. Heatley and teammate Dan Snyder were ejected and Snyder was killed.

Prosecutors said Heatley was not drunk when he crashed, so they agreed to Garland's proposal that the hockey player plead guilty to a lesser crime. Snyder's family approved the agreement, which also limited Heatley to driving a six-cylinder car at no more than 70 mph.

Garland also was one of the attorneys rapper T.I. retained when he was arrested in Midtown Atlanta just hours before the 2007 B.E.T. Awards when he tried to buy automatic weapons and a silencer from an undercover agent.

T.I., whose legal name is Clifford Harris, pleaded guilty. He was sentenced to 1,000 hours of community service that involved telling kids and fans not to emulate his old lifestyle of drugs, guns, gangs and violence. Then he was to spend a year and a day in prison, a sentenced he has completed.

That's pretty damn specific. Reading off the roster?

He probably mentions it in his 'rap'Female: You are pretty big, how big are you?

Big Ben: I'm 6' 5 241 but that's not why they call me Big Ben if you know what I'm saying

I thought of this the first time someone commented on the description she supposedly gave. Surprised it took this long for someone to post it.

Maybe she works at the carnival?

 

[Godsbrother]

Maybe she works at the carnival?

 

[Godsbrother]

I found Adam Schefters comments about the Steelers displeasure interesting.

Care to share?

Steelers ownership is growing tired of Roethlisberger, putting himself into situations they feel are tarnishing the imagine of the Steelers.

No doubt. Obviously the Steelers have to play this out but they have to be pretty po'ed that they are put in this position. It wouldn't surprise me now if the Steelers take a QB early in this draft.

 

[Couch Potato]

Maybe she works at the carnival?

Cool, Godsbrother and I are in agreement in the Ben thread. That was

 

[Godsbrother]

Maybe she works at the carnival?

Cool, Godsbrother and I are in agreement in the Ben thread. That was

If the allegations made against Ben turn out to be true then I am 100% with you.

 

[Couch Potato]

Video of police press conference. Not much of use other than saying Ben will be interviewed in the next 2-3 days, and the biggie: they do have video from the club (didn't say whether or not it shows something of value).

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/22825103/vp/35768435#35768435

 

[Wilbur Wood]

If I own the Steelers I have a private chat with Ben and tell him flat out that if he is seen out in a bar (or similar situation drinking), that he will effectively have lost my trust the same way that Mike Vick lost Arthur Blank's trust and "Big" Ben will have to deal with the ramifications.Ben obviously has a major problem with alcohol. He has had a major "rep" as a "party boy" since college. Now 2 alcohol related incidents with women.Contractual violation and bad judgement riding his cycle without a helmet.If Ben is charged, then the Roger "the tough Sherriff" Goodell should suspend Ben indefinately pending resolution. Enough is enough. Plaxico was suspending pending adjudication for what many feel was a much less severe crime and pattern of behavior.The White QB and Super Bowl hero should not get afforded "the benefit of the doubt", when others of different stature do not.

People like you scare me. You are ready to crucify the guy and ruin his career for...going to bars, drinking (No DWIs that I am aware of), and hitting on chicks? That's called being an American male. The previous case was thrown out--he is innocent of any wrong doing. This one? We'll see. If he is found in a court of law to have committed rape I trust he will be punished severely both by law and by the NFL. But you don't make these judgements just because someone is accused of something. I personally have known people to be falsely accused of crimes; it happens.

Two posts later Mike Florio said basically the same thing in different words.Reality is that in my ~ 40 years of following pro sports closely whenever there is a patter of behavior (and with "Party Ben" it goes beyond the 2 incidents with these girls) there is an extremely high "hit rate" in terms of the player involved having serious problems. This is a hobby that is all about "probabilities" and educated guesses, living by experiences.Feel free to hold him up as innocent and unworthy of even having an extremely pissed off employer.The fact that he has retained an elite criminal lawyer at this stage is a sign that he very well could face charges.I also found the comments by the Rooney family very telling.

 

[SSOG]

However, riding a motercycle without a helmet, against the wishes of your team, against the verbiage of your contract while risking your health not only for your team, but for your financial stability in life moving forward DOES suggest that someone is more likely to act without first using their head.When you then have multiple instances of "foolish" behavior that does not take into account potential reprecussions - that's enough to begin to question someone's judgement and forcing oneself on a young woman, ESPECIALLY when you have SO much to lose (not to mention such an ability to get young women in the first place) is a prime example of using very poor judgement - and that doesnt even go into the moral side of the equation.

I'm still not buying it. There's a HUGE difference between "foolish" behavior and "criminal" behavior. I know a lot of people who I would describe as "foolish", and yet I can't think of one of them who I would describe as a heightened risk for assault. I think Crabtree was very foolish for holding out so long- do you think Crabtree is more likely a closet rapist than any other first round rookie, too? And I don't get why you'd even bring up the moral side of the equation. Please, enlighten me as to what MORAL parallels there are between riding a motorcycle without a helmet and sexually assaulting an inebriated college student. Thanks, I'll hang up and listen.

If Roethlisberger is charged then the Steelers will need to go shopping for a QB ASAP. Unfortuately there isn't a whole lot of good FA options. Campbell and Orton are probably the best.

Orton's an RFA. The Broncos tendered him at the first round level, so if the Steelers sign him away, they'll owe Denver a 1st rounder.As a Broncos fan... please sign Orton away. Please. Pretty please.

 

[Koya]

However, riding a motercycle without a helmet, against the wishes of your team, against the verbiage of your contract while risking your health not only for your team, but for your financial stability in life moving forward DOES suggest that someone is more likely to act without first using their head.When you then have multiple instances of "foolish" behavior that does not take into account potential reprecussions - that's enough to begin to question someone's judgement and forcing oneself on a young woman, ESPECIALLY when you have SO much to lose (not to mention such an ability to get young women in the first place) is a prime example of using very poor judgement - and that doesnt even go into the moral side of the equation.

I'm still not buying it. There's a HUGE difference between "foolish" behavior and "criminal" behavior. I know a lot of people who I would describe as "foolish", and yet I can't think of one of them who I would describe as a heightened risk for assault. I think Crabtree was very foolish for holding out so long- do you think Crabtree is more likely a closet rapist than any other first round rookie, too? And I don't get why you'd even bring up the moral side of the equation. Please, enlighten me as to what MORAL parallels there are between riding a motorcycle without a helmet and sexually assaulting an inebriated college student. Thanks, I'll hang up and listen.

If Roethlisberger is charged then the Steelers will need to go shopping for a QB ASAP. Unfortuately there isn't a whole lot of good FA options. Campbell and Orton are probably the best.

Orton's an RFA. The Broncos tendered him at the first round level, so if the Steelers sign him away, they'll owe Denver a 1st rounder.As a Broncos fan... please sign Orton away. Please. Pretty please.

Huh? I never called Big Ben criminal. What I did call into question was his judgement... in a non moral manner. I simply stated we have someone with a track record of doing stupid things without thinking about the consequences. Now, poor judgement far from a criminal - or rapist - makes. However, if you have criminal or other tendencies, you don't think it will likely become known if you are also one that possesses poor judgement?Right now, I am calling Ben out for being stupid and careless - about the position he puts himself in and his reckless behavior. The rest will play itself out... but either way, as an organization, you think the Steelers want someone who is careless/reckless and someone who at best is a knucklehead being the face of their franchise and "leader" of their team? Morality aside, this is not good for Ben... and if he doesnt "grow up" then his stupidity will catch up to him, whether or not it extends into "criminal" or "immoral" behavior.That is, if his behavior has not already done so.

 

[menobrown]

Video of police press conference. Not much of use other than saying Ben will be interviewed in the next 2-3 days, and the biggie: they do have video from the club (didn't say whether or not it shows something of value).

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/22825103/vp/35768435#35768435

That was reported this morning by some lady from ESPN. She said it's a 7,000 square foot club and contains several different camera's which are changed out every 5 days but obviously they would have no camera's inside the bathroom were this allegedly went down. If anything the camera's can probably only help Ben. As TMZ reported there is a photo of the accuser with giving Ben a friendly hug. Other photos' or video showing her willingly hanging out with him is only going to help his defense.

 

[Couch Potato]

Video of police press conference. Not much of use other than saying Ben will be interviewed in the next 2-3 days, and the biggie: they do have video from the club (didn't say whether or not it shows something of value).

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/22825103/vp/35768435#35768435

That was reported this morning by some lady from ESPN. She said it's a 7,000 square foot club and contains several different camera's which are changed out every 5 days but obviously they would have no camera's inside the bathroom were this allegedly went down. If anything the camera's can probably only help Ben. As TMZ reported there is a photo of the accuser with giving Ben a friendly hug. Other photos' or video showing her willingly hanging out with him is only going to help his defense.

I don't think anyone is disputing that she was back in the VIP area by choice, one of the hotties recruited by Ben's entourage and promised free drinks to keep them company. Hugs and smiles early on would be expected. The issue is what allegedly occurred later.

 

[fatness]

Haven't seen this detail reported before. With only one report of it so far it's probably best to see if it's reported elsewhere as well.

Allegedly, he pushed the victim into the ladies room where he supposedly assaulted her.

Link

 

[ScottyFargo]

Video of police press conference. Not much of use other than saying Ben will be interviewed in the next 2-3 days, and the biggie: they do have video from the club (didn't say whether or not it shows something of value).

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/22825103/vp/35768435#35768435

That was reported this morning by some lady from ESPN. She said it's a 7,000 square foot club and contains several different camera's which are changed out every 5 days but obviously they would have no camera's inside the bathroom were this allegedly went down. If anything the camera's can probably only help Ben. As TMZ reported there is a photo of the accuser with giving Ben a friendly hug. Other photos' or video showing her willingly hanging out with him is only going to help his defense.

Hugs /= "Yes"

 

[Jason Wood]

I know I'm asking too much, but why must everyone so vehemently defend either side of this? We don't have a clue what happened. He could've raped her, he could've groped her, he could've tried to do something inappropriate, he could've done nothing, she could be mental, she could be lying, or something else entirely might have happened. Yet, as I read through this thread it would seem that both sides are dug in as though they KNOW their version of the outcome to be the reality. I just don't get that kind of definitive stance in the face of total uncertainty.

I will say this, I sincerely hope this is all a misunderstanding because if it's not then a woman was sexually assaulted in some way. I personally think that trumps any possible outcomes to the Steelers or to Big Ben's playing career.

 

[yellowdog]

I know I'm asking too much, but why must everyone so vehemently defend either side of this?

New here?

 

[Jason Wood]

I know I'm asking too much, but why must everyone so vehemently defend either side of this?

New here?

Ha! Well yeah, but this (to me) is much different. People digging in on something like whether Brian Westbrook is washed up or whether the Giants are a contender or whether Tom Brady is better than Peyton Manning invite that kind of resolute chest pumping. Because there's no definitive answer and you can make points that support or detract from either side of the argument.But this is a potentially serious criminal matter that actually does have a factual outcome, only 0% of us have any clue as to any of the relevant details. So, to me, arguing either side with any kind of vehemence really reflects poorly on the arguer -- hints at someone who is unable or unwilling to be open minded even when the situation very much calls for it.

 

[Couch Potato]

I know I'm asking too much, but why must everyone so vehemently defend either side of this?

New here?

It's a message board. People express opinions. No one is required to act as if it's a court of law. If we had to wait for everything to be rock solid proven fact before we form opinions on things (not to mention that 'proven facts' and 'the truth' are often different things), it would be a very quiet message board. If I'm wrong and he did nothing, my having held an opinion doesn't affect Ben's life one way or the other. So, yes, it's asking too much. Sorry.

 

[Peggy Starfish]

Press conference update: no charges right now. Roethlisberger and his party will be interviewed with the next couple days.

The police officer in charge needs to learn how to pronounce the name of his suspect.

Easy on the speech impediment smack, yinzer.

 

[massraider]

But this is a potentially serious criminal matter that actually does have a factual outcome, only 0% of us have any clue as to any of the relevant details. So, to me, arguing either side with any kind of vehemence really reflects poorly on the arguer -- hints at someone who is unable or unwilling to be open minded even when the situation very much calls for it.

 

[Ministry of Pain]

I know I'm asking too much, but why must everyone so vehemently defend either side of this? We don't have a clue what happened. He could've raped her, he could've groped her, he could've tried to do something inappropriate, he could've done nothing, she could be mental, she could be lying, or something else entirely might have happened. Yet, as I read through this thread it would seem that both sides are dug in as though they KNOW their version of the outcome to be the reality. I just don't get that kind of definitive stance in the face of total uncertainty.I will say this, I sincerely hope this is all a misunderstanding because if it's not then a woman was sexually assaulted in some way. I personally think that trumps any possible outcomes to the Steelers or to Big Ben's playing career.

If this 20 year old woman was intoxicated form everything I have asked and questioned in regards to the law...it seems no consent can happen. Meaning if she was drunk and he knew that, then had sex with her or groped her or whatever, that can be deemed sexual assault. I was a person that was very skeptical in the beginning of this but learning more about the law, and I'm sure Ben's agent and others around him know it pretty well, they have encouraged him to get a high profile lawyer. I'm not saying he's guilty not guilty, but even Ray Ratto who was on Jim Rome today said this case has a lot different scope to it than the one in Utah. This was reported to the police the night it happened, that might not mean anything to anyone but I believe Ratto is right that this case feels a lot different than the one involving the hotel employee in Utah.I guess Jason, it matters to most of us in the sense we are trying to figure out the future in Pittsburgh. What happens to Pitt if this thing drags on into summer, gonna be a big cloud hanging over this team, and the Steelers are not going to put Ben ahead of the team or this franchise which no matter if you are a fan or not they are one of the best run organizations in all of football, has been that way a long time. Most Steeler fans if this story were to be true would turn on Ben in a heartbeat, which is a good thing. This organization does not want to be tarnished by Ben, everyone in Pittsburgh is replaceable.

 

[Peggy Starfish]

But this is a potentially serious criminal matter that actually does have a factual outcome, only 0% of us have any clue as to any of the relevant details. So, to me, arguing either side with any kind of vehemence really reflects poorly on the arguer -- hints at someone who is unable or unwilling to be open minded even when the situation very much calls for it.

You want to know how I know you're new to message boards?

 

[Jason Wood]

But this is a potentially serious criminal matter that actually does have a factual outcome, only 0% of us have any clue as to any of the relevant details. So, to me, arguing either side with any kind of vehemence really reflects poorly on the arguer -- hints at someone who is unable or unwilling to be open minded even when the situation very much calls for it.

You want to know how I know you're new to message boards?

You want to know how I know you're new to this particular message board? That's a new one on me...someone saying I'm new to this message board. [Hint, Hint...take a gander to the left at my member number]

 

[Jason Wood]

I know I'm asking too much, but why must everyone so vehemently defend either side of this?

New here?

It's a message board. People express opinions. No one is required to act as if it's a court of law. If we had to wait for everything to be rock solid proven fact before we form opinions on things (not to mention that 'proven facts' and 'the truth' are often different things), it would be a very quiet message board. If I'm wrong and he did nothing, my having held an opinion doesn't affect Ben's life one way or the other. So, yes, it's asking too much. Sorry.

You're missing the point. I'm talking about the folks that are taking positions as though they already know whether Ben is guilty or he's being "set up" by some conspiring woman. None of us have any clue where the truth lies here. Very few if anyone will publicly support Ben if it turns out he actually assaulted this woman, and flip side if the charges are never filed, and no civil suit follows, then I would guarantee you that most would forget this soon enough and whether you're a critic of Ben or a fan, your opinion won't have changed.

 

[Vladislav Tretiak]

I know I'm asking too much, but why must everyone so vehemently defend either side of this? We don't have a clue what happened. He could've raped her, he could've groped her, he could've tried to do something inappropriate, he could've done nothing, she could be mental, she could be lying, or something else entirely might have happened. Yet, as I read through this thread it would seem that both sides are dug in as though they KNOW their version of the outcome to be the reality. I just don't get that kind of definitive stance in the face of total uncertainty.

I will say this, I sincerely hope this is all a misunderstanding because if it's not then a woman was sexually assaulted in some way. I personally think that trumps any possible outcomes to the Steelers or to Big Ben's playing career.

If this 20 year old woman was intoxicated form everything I have asked and questioned in regards to the law...it seems no consent can happen. Meaning if she was drunk and he knew that, then had sex with her or groped her or whatever, that can be deemed sexual assault.

I was a person that was very skeptical in the beginning of this but learning more about the law, and I'm sure Ben's agent and others around him know it pretty well, they have encouraged him to get a high profile lawyer.

I'm not saying he's guilty not guilty, but even Ray Ratto who was on Jim Rome today said this case has a lot different scope to it than the one in Utah. This was reported to the police the night it happened, that might not mean anything to anyone but I believe Ratto is right that this case feels a lot different than the one involving the hotel employee in Utah.

I guess Jason, it matters to most of us in the sense we are trying to figure out the future in Pittsburgh. What happens to Pitt if this thing drags on into summer, gonna be a big cloud hanging over this team, and the Steelers are not going to put Ben ahead of the team or this franchise which no matter if you are a fan or not they are one of the best run organizations in all of football, has been that way a long time.

Most Steeler fans if this story were to be true would turn on Ben in a heartbeat, which is a good thing. This organization does not want to be tarnished by Ben, everyone in Pittsburgh is replaceable.

I think I saw on ESPN that he has hired the attorney that defended Ray Lewis.Here is what I found on a FoxPhilly site:

The two-time Super Bowl winner, 28, is being represented by attorneys Ed Garland and Don Samuel, the newspaper said. Garland has represented football players Ray Lewis and Jamal Lewis (not related), as well as NHL player Dany Heatley.

Samuel's former clients include Atlanta rapper T.I., who spent a year in prison at the height of his success for gun charges.

 

[Couch Potato]

But this is a potentially serious criminal matter that actually does have a factual outcome, only 0% of us have any clue as to any of the relevant details. So, to me, arguing either side with any kind of vehemence really reflects poorly on the arguer -- hints at someone who is unable or unwilling to be open minded even when the situation very much calls for it.

You want to know how I know you're new to message boards?

You want to know how I know you're new to this particular message board? That's a new one on me...someone saying I'm new to this message board. [Hint, Hint...take a gander to the left at my member number]

Hey n00b (and staff member for a good long while ) ... I just want to say that based on the outspoken stance I've taken, if Godsbrother's pretty respectful disapproval and your "arguing either side with any kind of vehemence really reflects poorly on the arguer -- hints at someone who is unable or unwilling to be open minded even when the situation very much calls for it" is all the ripping I'm gonna get, I'm actually surprised. I'm going with my instincts on this matter, but I expected that doing so, I'd really get a good reaming by someone in Ben's corner.

 

[Couch Potato]

Jesus, there's one in Utah now too? Man this guy gets around.

Nah, MoP was just a bit geographically mixed up -- he's referring to the Lake Tahoe NV case.

 

[Steelfan7]

But this is a potentially serious criminal matter that actually does have a factual outcome, only 0% of us have any clue as to any of the relevant details. So, to me, arguing either side with any kind of vehemence really reflects poorly on the arguer -- hints at someone who is unable or unwilling to be open minded even when the situation very much calls for it.

You want to know how I know you're new to message boards?

You want to know how I know you're new to this particular message board? That's a new one on me...someone saying I'm new to this message board. [Hint, Hint...take a gander to the left at my member ]

 

[Vladislav Tretiak]

But this is a potentially serious criminal matter that actually does have a factual outcome, only 0% of us have any clue as to any of the relevant details. So, to me, arguing either side with any kind of vehemence really reflects poorly on the arguer -- hints at someone who is unable or unwilling to be open minded even when the situation very much calls for it.

You want to know how I know you're new to message boards?

You want to know how I know you're new to this particular message board? That's a new one on me...someone saying I'm new to this message board. [Hint, Hint...take a gander to the left at my member ]

Nuts!err...Nuts?

 

[phthalatemagic]

But this is a potentially serious criminal matter that actually does have a factual outcome, only 0% of us have any clue as to any of the relevant details. So, to me, arguing either side with any kind of vehemence really reflects poorly on the arguer -- hints at someone who is unable or unwilling to be open minded even when the situation very much calls for it.

You want to know how I know you're new to message boards?

You want to know how I know you're new to this particular message board? That's a new one on me...someone saying I'm new to this message board. [Hint, Hint...take a gander to the left at my member number]

You are aware that Peggy Starfish is one of a trillion aliases and probably has been here since the beginning too, right?

 

[Polar Dude]

But this is a potentially serious criminal matter that actually does have a factual outcome, only 0% of us have any clue as to any of the relevant details. So, to me, arguing either side with any kind of vehemence really reflects poorly on the arguer -- hints at someone who is unable or unwilling to be open minded even when the situation very much calls for it.

You want to know how I know you're new to message boards?

You want to know how I know you're new to this particular message board? That's a new one on me...someone saying I'm new to this message board. [Hint, Hint...take a gander to the left at my member number]

I think you missed the entire point of his post (and kinda made yourself look foolish in the process by chest-thumping over your member number).

 

[lynx4ben]

But this is a potentially serious criminal matter that actually does have a factual outcome, only 0% of us have any clue as to any of the relevant details. So, to me, arguing either side with any kind of vehemence really reflects poorly on the arguer -- hints at someone who is unable or unwilling to be open minded even when the situation very much calls for it.

You want to know how I know you're new to message boards?

You want to know how I know you're new to this particular message board? That's a new one on me...someone saying I'm new to this message board. [Hint, Hint...take a gander to the left at my member number]

good luck with this one

LOL, that was a good one. (I'm also just curious what my member number is)Edit: Dang I suck :(

 

[Wilbur Wood]

I know I'm asking too much, but why must everyone so vehemently defend either side of this?

New here?

It's a message board. People express opinions. No one is required to act as if it's a court of law. If we had to wait for everything to be rock solid proven fact before we form opinions on things (not to mention that 'proven facts' and 'the truth' are often different things), it would be a very quiet message board. If I'm wrong and he did nothing, my having held an opinion doesn't affect Ben's life one way or the other. So, yes, it's asking too much. Sorry.

You're missing the point. I'm talking about the folks that are taking positions as though they already know whether Ben is guilty or he's being "set up" by some conspiring woman. None of us have any clue where the truth lies here. Very few if anyone will publicly support Ben if it turns out he actually assaulted this woman, and flip side if the charges are never filed, and no civil suit follows, then I would guarantee you that most would forget this soon enough and whether you're a critic of Ben or a fan, your opinion won't have changed.

Jason, the sad reality is that with pro athletes if you follow the simple rule, "where there's smoke there is fire" with respect to "off the field issues", you will be right the overwhelming majority of the time, especially when multiple off the field incidents occur.I have been chastised on baseball message boards over the past decades for "jumping to conclusions" with respect to numerous baseball players and PEDs. Well you know what, as the facts have come out I was proved correct over 90% of the time. Athletes and substance/alcohol abuse, rumors, strange incidents - again the overwhelming majority of the time those that followed the rumors or innuendo have been proven to be correct.All I am saying is that Big Ben already has a well deserved rep as a big boozer. The "best case scenario" is that Ben's method of getting sex from women is to have his posse recruit young babes into a back room (girls only), liquor them up and allow nature to take its course. To some that alone says a lot about what type of person Big Ben is off the field. I suspect that there is a bit more to the story than just that.This story also has legs because the NFL has a ton or recent experience with bad off the field behavior, Vick, Burress, PacMan, Henry, Little, Tank, all African American players. Now we have the star white Super Bowl QB and many are curious to see how this is handled by NFL Inc.

 

[Tau837]

This story also has legs because the NFL has a ton or recent experience with bad off the field behavior, Vick, Burress, PacMan, Henry, Little, Tank, all African American players. Now we have the star white Super Bowl QB and many are curious to see how this is handled by NFL Inc.

I agree that this is an unfortunate element to this issue. IMO if Ben gets charged, this will result in pressure on Goodell to suspend him prior to legal resolution.

 

[Tau837]

I know I'm asking too much, but why must everyone so vehemently defend either side of this?

New here?

It's a message board. People express opinions. No one is required to act as if it's a court of law. If we had to wait for everything to be rock solid proven fact before we form opinions on things (not to mention that 'proven facts' and 'the truth' are often different things), it would be a very quiet message board. If I'm wrong and he did nothing, my having held an opinion doesn't affect Ben's life one way or the other. So, yes, it's asking too much. Sorry.

You're missing the point. I'm talking about the folks that are taking positions as though they already know whether Ben is guilty or he's being "set up" by some conspiring woman. None of us have any clue where the truth lies here. Very few if anyone will publicly support Ben if it turns out he actually assaulted this woman, and flip side if the charges are never filed, and no civil suit follows, then I would guarantee you that most would forget this soon enough and whether you're a critic of Ben or a fan, your opinion won't have changed.

Maybe I've missed it, but I really haven't noticed many posters (besides CP ) taking hard stances that he is either guilty or not guilty. I've posted a few times, and my point has been that he is an idiot regardless. I don't think it is premature to take that stance...

 

[DawgPoundNJ]

I hate the Steelers but respect them.

They went down a few notches in supporting James Harrison's thuggery - they let Big Ben continue at this pace they ruin a great thing.

 

[Steelfan7]

I hate the Steelers but respect them.They went down a few notches in supporting James Harrison's thuggery - they let Big Ben continue at this pace they ruin a great thing.

I'm sure the Rooney's are losing sleep over you right now.

 

[bbuster]

After reading through this entire thread, I'm beginning to wonder if the majority of the posters would defend their favorite football players even if it was their sister, mother, or daughter making the accusation against them. It certainly seems to be the opinion of many that most women found in a bar socializing with men are skanks and whores out looking for a big payday. It's not surprising to me that many women who are actually sexually assaulted or raped are afraid to press charges for this reason alone. Many people don't seem to bother jumping to the defense of a woman who's character is being assaulted, but are very quick to jump to the defense of the person accused. Neither BB or the woman should be judged until all the facts of the case are revealed.

 

[Tau837]

After reading through this entire thread, I'm beginning to wonder if the majority of the posters would defend their favorite football players even if it was their sister, mother, or daughter making the accusation against them. It certainly seems to be the opinion of many that most women found in a bar socializing with men are skanks and whores out looking for a big payday. It's not surprising to me that many women who are actually sexually assaulted or raped are afraid to press charges for this reason alone. Many people don't seem to bother jumping to the defense of a woman who's character is being assaulted, but are very quick to jump to the defense of the person accused. Neither BB or the woman should be judged until all the facts of the case are revealed.

Actually, I've seen several quotes from people who know this woman saying she is a great person, etc. Quite a difference between this situation and the Reno situation.

 

[Steelfan7]

After reading through this entire thread, I'm beginning to wonder if the majority of the posters would defend their favorite football players even if it was their sister, mother, or daughter making the accusation against them. It certainly seems to be the opinion of many that most women found in a bar socializing with men are skanks and whores out looking for a big payday. It's not surprising to me that many women who are actually sexually assaulted or raped are afraid to press charges for this reason alone. Many people don't seem to bother jumping to the defense of a woman who's character is being assaulted, but are very quick to jump to the defense of the person accused. Neither BB or the woman should be judged until all the facts of the case are revealed.

Actually, I've seen several quotes from people who know this woman saying she is a great person, etc. Quite a difference between this situation and the Reno situation.

I don't believe he raped her or exposed himself to her, but there is little doubt in my mind that Ben did grope/get touchy feely with this girl. Proving it is another story. Ben is guilty of something that night. Innocent men do not go out and hire very expensive prominent murder trial lawyers for a simple misunderstanding.

 

[Vladislav Tretiak]

After reading through this entire thread, I'm beginning to wonder if the majority of the posters would defend their favorite football players even if it was their sister, mother, or daughter making the accusation against them. It certainly seems to be the opinion of many that most women found in a bar socializing with men are skanks and whores out looking for a big payday. It's not surprising to me that many women who are actually sexually assaulted or raped are afraid to press charges for this reason alone. Many people don't seem to bother jumping to the defense of a woman who's character is being assaulted, but are very quick to jump to the defense of the person accused. Neither BB or the woman should be judged until all the facts of the case are revealed.

Actually, I've seen several quotes from people who know this woman saying she is a great person, etc. Quite a difference between this situation and the Reno situation.

I don't believe he raped her or exposed himself to her, but there is little doubt in my mind that Ben did grope/get touchy feely with this girl. Proving it is another story. Ben is guilty of something that night. Innocent men do not go out and hire very expensive prominent murder trial lawyers for a simple misunderstanding.

Defendants try to get the best counsel they can affordJust because we can't afford these two doesn't mean Ben should get them if he can...on second thought, this is the FBG so that means we can all afford better then these two.

 

[cobalt_27]

[Hint, Hint...take a gander to the left at my member number]

Wow.

 

[Truman]

If I own the Steelers I have a private chat with Ben and tell him flat out that if he is seen out in a bar (or similar situation drinking), that he will effectively have lost my trust the same way that Mike Vick lost Arthur Blank's trust and "Big" Ben will have to deal with the ramifications.Ben obviously has a major problem with alcohol. He has had a major "rep" as a "party boy" since college. Now 2 alcohol related incidents with women.Contractual violation and bad judgement riding his cycle without a helmet.If Ben is charged, then the Roger "the tough Sherriff" Goodell should suspend Ben indefinately pending resolution. Enough is enough. Plaxico was suspending pending adjudication for what many feel was a much less severe crime and pattern of behavior.The White QB and Super Bowl hero should not get afforded "the benefit of the doubt", when others of different stature do not.

People like you scare me. You are ready to crucify the guy and ruin his career for...going to bars, drinking (No DWIs that I am aware of), and hitting on chicks? That's called being an American male. The previous case was thrown out--he is innocent of any wrong doing. This one? We'll see. If he is found in a court of law to have committed rape I trust he will be punished severely both by law and by the NFL. But you don't make these judgements just because someone is accused of something. I personally have known people to be falsely accused of crimes; it happens.

Also, FWIW, Plaxico was suspended by the Giants not the NFL right after he shot himself in the leg and, quite frankly, he wasn't going to be playing anyway.

Vick was suspended before trial. Pacman. Henry. Thurman.

 

[analog_hiss]

Just to add...

I think Roethlisberger is guilty. The Steelers should cut bait right now and get whatever they can for his sorry ### right now.

Roethlisberger has an inferiority complex, and blames a lot of crap on phantom injuries and others failures. He's a drama queen. There are plenty of anecdotal stories in Pittsburgh (bad tipper, walking out on checks, etc) to fill a background of Big Ben as a jerk profile.

Think about it...he's a 28 year old millionaire with two SB rings...he could pull tail anywhere; NYC, LA, ATL etc.

He chose to go to BFE GA. Sexual predators like being the biggest fish in a small pond, and they aren't interested just getting tail, they like power...no one is going to question his power in armpit Georgia.

I truly hope that we (the consumers of the NFL) receive a 100% verdict...he's totally guilty or totally innocent.

 

[Couch Potato]

Just to add...I think Roethlisberger is guilty. The Steelers should cut bait right now and get whatever they can for his sorry ### right now.Roethlisberger has an inferiority complex, and blames a lot of crap on phantom injuries and others failures. He's a drama queen. There are plenty of anecdotal stories in Pittsburgh (bad tipper, walking out on checks, etc) to fill a background of Big Ben as a jerk profile.Think about it...he's a 28 year old millionaire with two SB rings...he could pull tail anywhere; NYC, LA, ATL etc.He chose to go to BFE GA. Sexual predators like being the biggest fish in a small pond, and they aren't interested just getting tail, they like power...no one is going to question his power in armpit Georgia.I truly hope that we (the consumers of the NFL) receive a 100% verdict...he's totally guilty or totally innocent.

For the record, analog_hiss is not my alias. I'm downright wishy washy about all this compared to this guy.