THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Wednesday, February 14, 1996 TAG: 9602140033
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: C3 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: BY DOUG DOUGHTY, LANDMARK NEWS SERVICE
LENGTH: Medium: 52 lines
University of Virginia basketball players Scott Johnson and Darryl Presley were arrested Tuesday on charges of petty larceny, jeopardizing their future with the team.
Johnson and Presley, both freshmen, reportedly were caught shoplifting Dec. 17 at the Leggett Department Store in Fashion Square Mall in Charlottesville, but charges were not pressed at the time.
Police and school officials did not explain why charges finally were brought nearly two months later. However, the offense first came to light when The Cavalier Daily reported Feb. 2 that store employees were upset by the failure to prosecute.
Johnson, a top substitute, and Presley, a seldom-used reserve, were suspended for one game - Dec. 21 against Virginia Commonwealth - for violating team policy.
As for reports that Johnson and Presley would miss tonight's game against Duke, or possibly leave the team permanently, U.Va. spokesman Rich Murray said: ``I can't speak to that.''
Carl Deavers, a major with the U.Va. police department, confirmed that his division had assisted the Albemarle County Police Department in serving Johnson and Presley with warrants.
The value of the merchandise was placed at more than $200, including a shirt that Johnson was said to have stuffed in his pants.
Athletic director Terry Holland said he was unaware of any decision on the players' status. Holland released a statement Friday in which he clarified the athletic department's role in such matters.
The statement said: ``Recent news stories have questioned the University of Virginia athletics department's role in matters of student discipline. It is the department's policy and continuing practice that coaches and other staff members do not attempt to influence disciplinary or legal processes beyond the enforcement of team rules. This policy has not been violated.''
Johnson (6-foot-10) averages 3.6 points and 2.9 rebounds. Presley (6-foot-6) averages 0.6 points and 1.7 rebounds. ILLUSTRATION: Scott
Johnson
Darryl
Presley
by CNB