Florida State has dismissed freshman cornerback Chuck Kennon from its football program following an alleged high-speed police chase in Tampa, Florida, over the weekend.
Kennon, an 18-year-old defensive back who was considered one of the Seminoles’ top recruits, was dismissed from the program Tuesday after the incident, according to reports.
The incident reportedly began early Sunday morning when an officer spotted Kennon’s Dodge Durango traveling 79 mph in a 50-mph zone in Tampa, according to UPI.
What followed was an alleged pursuit that reached dangerous speeds, with the SUV reportedly exceeding 150 mph. During the chase, the vehicle allegedly ran a red light and hit a curb before coming to rest on a flat tire.
According to reports, an officer observed Kennon escape from the vehicle and run to a nearby industrial plant.
Woman Reports Reckless Driving During Incident
While searching for Kennon, police allegedly found his cellphone inside the Dodge Durango.
Authorities also encountered a woman who said she left Ybor City with Kennon. According to reports, the woman told police that she repeatedly asked him to let her out of the car as his driving became reckless.
He allegedly asked to be let out of the vehicle more than 10 times and suffered injuries to his arm.
The woman was reportedly placed in handcuffs and detained during the incident. The circumstances surrounding his imprisonment have not been fully detailed in the information available.
Kennon Enters, Faces Three Charges
Kennon surrendered to authorities on Monday and faces three charges, according to court records reviewed by the New York Post.
The charges reportedly include:
- Aggravated escape to avoid: A second-degree felony.
- False imprisonment: A third-degree felony.
- Resisting an officer without violence: A misdemeanor.
The charges have not yet been adjudicated in court. Kennon is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Florida State Continues Without Freshman Cornerback
Florida State’s decision to cut Kennon marks a significant development for a program that looked to the young defensive back as a key part of its recruiting class.
The Seminoles will have to move forward without the freshman as the situation develops.
For Kennon, the legal process will continue as he faces charges stemming from the alleged incident. Further details about the case and any future court proceedings may emerge in the coming days.
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