Als Back Diedrick Faces Sexual Assault Charge
15/06/2009 04:52
MONTREAL / Despite a sexual assault charge, running back Dahrran Diedrick remains part of the Montreal Alouettes and will continue practising daily at training camp.
"We're aware of the case, but there's not a lot to say," said Als president Larry Smith. "We'll let the process play itself out. The case is in its infancy and there will be various stages. He has to be proven to be in a (guilty) position before we judge him." A Toronto police officer confirmed a story in Saturday's Globe and Mail that Diedrick, 30, is facing legal problems. Staff Sgt. Edward Tymburski said Diedrick has been charged with sexual assault with a weapon and threatening death and assault against a woman. The alleged victim is known to Diedrick.
The incident, Tymburski said, occurred in early June. Diedrick reported to training June 6, but returned to Toronto last week for 24 hours, tending to a personal matter, the Als said at the time.
A warrant was executed against Diedrick, who was arrested and appeared in court last Tuesday before being released on bail. The case has been remanded until this week, Tymburski said.
Diedrick, six-feet and 226 pounds, is entering his fourth season with Montreal.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
I can’t see how Dahrran Diedrick will last the year with the Als, folks. Even if he is innocent, the charges themselves will be a major distraction to Diedrick and the Als that will dog them the entire season.